The Hidden Clue to Aging: A Simple Test You’ve Never Heard of
The unconventional measure that reveals your age — it’s not what you think!
Ageing is a natural process that we all go through, but what if I told you that there’s a simple, yet unique way to measure it?
Something so inconspicuous, you’ve probably never considered it as a sign of ageing. Here is a novel idea that could change the way you view growing older. In my view, it’s a revelation that’s been hidden in plain sight all along.
Have you ever considered that the key to measuring ageing might not be in the wrinkles on your face or the number of candles on your birthday cake? What if there was a simple, yet accurate way to gauge the passage of time within your own body?
In my many years as a fitness coach, and in later years as a Seniors Fitness Trainer, I struggled sometimes to assess a new client’s starting level of core fitness, so that the proper initial programme could be planned for them.
I eventually settled on a base test, that in fact worked wonderfully well with seniors and allowed me to ascertain their true fitness age, as opposed to their biological age.Now, it’s time to reveal the secret you’ve been waiting for.
Your ability to balance on one leg is a remarkable indicator of your ageing process. It’s a subtle yet powerful measure that’s been hidden in plain sight all along.
Many people accept that this is just a natural inevitable process with ageing — not so!
Although failing eyesight can affect balance to a degree, the main cause is atrophy of ankle, leg and thigh muscles through lack of use. I have used the one leg test fairly accurately to settle on a person’s true fitness age. So, it’s an easy exercise for seniors, which will improve fitness and balance fairly quickly without any stressful exercises
Your ability to balance on one leg is a remarkable indicator of your ageing process. It’s a subtle yet powerful measure that’s been hidden in plain sight all along.
Here is my test and it all begins with a single, deceptively simple act:
The Balancing Act
This critical measure is based on the fact that, as we become less fit, it affects or ability to balance properly while standing on one leg.
Now, you will also find that the older we are, it becomes more difficult to perform this one leg challenge without toppling over. Most 50 year olds find it difficult, 60 year olds can manage about 3 seconds, 70 year olds normally can’t manage it unsupported at all.
Try it, and see what your age level you are at.
The Low Lift Challenge
It all starts with a simple test. Stand with both feet together, lift one leg a few inches, keeping the sole facing down, count slowly to ten while balancing, and see how long you can maintain your balance. Try it with the other leg. There will be a difference, and that’s where our journey begins.
What’s your score before overbalancing? If it’s less than 5 with either leg, you might want to pay close attention.
If you couldn’t meet the minimum standard, don’t worry. I have a plan to rectify it, and it will show you how to regain your balance and vitality.
How to improve
To begin your journey towards better balance, use a chair or wall for support at first, then later you can start to practice unsupported. Lift your leg while keeping your sole facing down and count slowly. This will help you get used to the routine.
Start by aiming for a count of 3 without support and gradually work your way up.
Once you can confidently manage 3 seconds with either leg, it’s time to set your sights on 5, then 8, and ultimately a count of 10. Take your time with this initial stage, the Low Level Challenge, as it may take a week or two to achieve your goal.
The High Lift Challenge
Now that you’ve achieved your goal of 10 seconds with either leg in the low lift, it’s time to progress to stage two.
In this stage, you’ll raise the chosen leg up to knee height by bending the raised leg at the knee. Hold it there, then straighten the knee so that the raised leg is parallel with the ground, maintaining this position for 5 seconds before lowering it to the ground. Don’t be discouraged if it feels challenging at first.
If you find this too difficult, do it by lifting the foot knee-high without extending it. Once successful move on to the full extension.
This exercise is designed to stretch your limits gently.
The Footwear Factor
Throughout your practice, I recommend starting with shoes or trainers to provide stability and support. Once you’ve achieved your goals in this condition, try practising in bare feet. You’ll find it to be a bit more challenging.
This transition is essential to further strengthen your balance and flexibility.
Beyond Balance and Flexibility
While this entire exercise may not be physically taxing, it yields tremendous benefits. Achieving your balance targets will not only enhance your everyday activities like walking and turning but also improve your overall flexibility. It’s a small change with significant impact.
Balance as a Daily Exercise
Even after you’ve reached the minimum standard, it’s important to keep practising this test. It’s not just an indicator, it’s a daily exercise that can help you monitor and maintain your vitality as you age.
Who would have thought that a simple balance test could reveal so much about our age?
It’s a concept that’s as unique as it is eye-opening. The next time you see someone effortlessly balance on one leg, remember the hidden clue to their age that you now know. Age is just a number, and your balance can be the key to unlocking a timeless vitality.
In this article I’ve not only revealed a hidden clue to ageing but also provided you with a roadmap for improvement. By incorporating these exercises into your daily routine, you can unlock a new level of balance, flexibility, and fitness.
So, are you ready to embrace the change and begin your journey to a more ageless you? Join me and start the transformation today.
