All posts tagged: exercising

Think you’re too old to start exercising at 50, 60 or 70? Think again

Think you’re too old to start exercising at 50, 60 or 70? Think again

Published by Daniella Wilson

Get the Well Enough newsletter with Harry Bullmore for tips on living a healthier, happier and longer life Get the Well Enough email with Harry Bullmore Get the Well Enough email with Harry Bullmore The article below is an excerpt from my newsletter: Well Enough with Harry Bullmore. To get my latest thoughts on fitness and wellbeing pop your email address into the box above to get the newsletter direct to your inbox. Physical ability peaks at 35. Or at least, that’s the headline takeaway from a 47-year study by the Karolinska Institutet in Sweden. For anyone younger, this feels like a lot of pressure. For anyone older, it’s rather disheartening news. Yet I recently spoke to coach Ed Haynes, who trains hundreds of people of all ages – including his 76-year-old mother. Despite lacking the strength to hold a plank at 59, she now cranks out pull-ups, plays golf three times per week, swims most mornings and does plenty of other exercise besides. So is she the exception that proves the rule? No. Rather, …

What Your Heart Rate Should Be While Exercising, According to Experts

What Your Heart Rate Should Be While Exercising, According to Experts

Published by Jenni Sidey

Whoever we are, whatever we’re doing, we have a measurable heart rate. It’s a pretty clear sign of being alive. But what should your heart rate be when exercising? When we exercise, our heart rate speeds up as it pumps blood around the body. This process moves oxygen and other such useful substances to our muscles. That oxygen is used to power us working out. If we’re ‘fit,’ our hearts can do this efficiently, and need to beat less times per minute. If we’re unfit, our hearts will need to beat harder. This is a sliding scale: a seasoned marathon runner is used to moving at a relatively steady, fairly slow pace, so even though they’re fit, their heart rate may still skyrocket if they jump on the battle ropes. Understanding your heart rate (HR) and what it should be at certain points is key for keeping you on track, and out of the danger zone. Here’s what you need to know. What’s the basic concept? Measuring your HR helps ensure you’re training at the …

How to stay warm while exercising outdoors: 16 expert tips for running, hiking and swimming | Fitness

How to stay warm while exercising outdoors: 16 expert tips for running, hiking and swimming | Fitness

Published by Sam Flores

There’s a glorious smugness that can only be experienced by exercising outdoors in winter conditions. The fresh air, the endorphins, the reduced risk of heart disease – they’re all nice bonuses, but nothing beats that knowing nod from another rain-drenched runner, or the horrified faces of nearby dog walkers as you stride confidently into the sea for a winter dip. There’s only one catch. In order for that intoxicating feeling to exceed the very real sting of the cold, you’ll need to make sure you’re suitably layered up. The Guardian’s journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. Learn more. Whether you’re running, hiking or outdoor swimming, there’s some sage advice that applies across the board: “Always start by checking the weather forecast,” advises Richard Shepherd, purchasing director at mountain sports retailer Ellis Brigham. “What you wear should match the conditions you’re likely to experience. It’s the key to staying safe and comfortable outdoors.” We tapped up three experts, as well as yours truly on hiking, to get …

The best walking pads for exercising at home

The best walking pads for exercising at home

Published by Sam Flores

What is a walking pad? “A walking pad is a compact, motorised treadmill designed for walking, usually at a slower pace,” says Michael Betts, personal trainer of 30 years and director at fitness education company TRAINFITNESS. “It’s ideal for those who want to stay active while working, as it can fit under a desk or be placed in small spaces. Unlike traditional treadmills, walking pads are lightweight, easy to store and sometimes foldable. Regular use can improve your fitness, boost energy levels and even enhance concentration. Plus, they’re generally quieter than standard treadmills, making them suitable for office environments.” How we choose walking pads I’ve reviewed some of the most popular walking pads on the market with a variety of differing functions and features, comparing maximum speed, whether they were foldable, weight, motor-size, whether they had hand rails and considering if each was worth its price tag. Jordan Dehara, physiotherapy lead at Benenden Hospital, advised me on the pros and cons of each one. I also considered ease of setup out of the box, how …