A muscular man is in plank position as he slams his right hand to the ground, raising a huge volume of chalk into the air. There are many benefits of exercising after age 60.
Photo by Lopez Robin on Unsplash

2 Key Elements of My Over 60 Training Program

Michael Hunter, MD
BeingWell
Published in
5 min readMay 22

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I AM TRAINING FOR A BODYBUILDING CONTEST. While that may sound not particularly notable, I am 60 years old. I want to share some of my master’s strategies for training success for those 35 and older. Today we look at two key elements of my over 60 training program.

There are many benefits of exercising after age 60. Some of the most important include:

  • Reduces the risk of chronic diseases. Exercise can help to reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer.
  • Improves physical fitness. Exercise can help to improve strength, endurance, flexibility, and balance. Physical activity can help older adults to stay independent and active.
  • Boosts mood and energy levels. Exercise can help to improve mood and energy levels. Moving can help older adults to feel more positive and engaged in life.
  • Reduces fall risk. Exercise can help to improve balance and coordination. Exercise can help reduce the risk of falls, a major cause of injury and death in older adults.
  • Improves cognitive function. Exercise can help to improve cognitive function, including memory and thinking skills. Physical activity can help older adults to stay mentally sharp and independent.
  • Increases life expectancy. Exercise can increase life expectancy in older adults.

For many, staying active with age can be challenging. First, older folks are slower to recover from moderate or vigorous physical activity. Second, we are more apt to suffer injury. Third, our priorities change. Sound familiar?

1. Rest and recovery

An important part of my master’s bodybuilding (perhaps physique optimization is a more descriptive term) is listening to my body. When I was younger, I often thought I could train through minor injuries. I no longer think that way.

Eight individuals play volleyball. We see someone spiking the ball. All are in silhouette, with a lovely sunrise in the background. An important part of my master’s bodybuilding (perhaps physique optimization is a more descriptive term) is listening to my body. When I was younger, I often thought I could train through minor injuries. I no longer think that way.
Photo by Jannes Glas on Unsplash

Now, if I have pain, I follow this rule:

“Treat (when indicated) and rest.” Test my limits and step…

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Michael Hunter, MD
BeingWell

I have degrees from Harvard, Yale, and Penn. I am a radiation oncologist in the Seattle area. You may find me regularly posting at www.newcancerinfo.com