top 5 WORKOUTS THAT KEEP YOU YOUNG

SLOW THE AGEING PROCESS WITH THE RIGHT EXERCISE ROUTINE

Scientists are now discovering exercise can help slow cellular ageing and even help our cells rejuvenate. Plus, a strong healthy body and increased energy from being fitter means you can keep doing the things you love for longer. Some workouts are particularly beneficial for keeping us looking and feeling young. Here, fitness experts share their advice.

PILATES

With anti-ageing benefits such as improved posture, strength, flexibility and balance, Pilates has a list of celebrity devotees that includes Jennifer Aniston, Gwyneth Paltrow and Madonna. “I know as an absolute fact that exercise is anti-ageing or pro-ageing,” says Jill Healy-Quintard from Body & Balance. “Pilates, as an example, helps prevent osteoporosis, due to the muscle lengthening and working with the bones. “The mind-body connection of Pilates stimulates the brain, helping reduce the onset of dementia,” she explains.

“Working with breath helps to oxygenate the blood throughout the body, stimulating circulation to give a facial glow and younger-looking skin generally. It increases flexibility and a healthy spine – in fact, Joseph Pilates said ‘You are only as young as your spine is flexible’.”

WHERE: Local gyms or Pilates studios, or visit pilates.org.au.

HIGH-INTENSITY TRAINING

“I use HIT and HIIT for both chronic conditions and slowing the ageing process,” says exercise physiologist Naomi Ferstera. “High-intensity exercise has been shown to stimulate the building of new mitochondria, which are considered to be the ‘energy powerhouse’ of your cells and responsible for providing most of the energy the body needs,” she explains.

“When mitochondria become dysfunctional, they are linked to many chronic illnesses and the ageing process. Loss of muscle tissue is also associated negatively with ageing,” says Ferstera. “Therefore, as high-intensity exercise can

build healthy new mitochondria in addition to muscle, this means it is a great choice for promoting healthy ageing.”

WHERE: Local gyms, pools and community colleges.

STRENGTH TRAINING

Strength training is key to maintaining a healthy, functioning body as we age, says certified fitness trainer and Masters CrossFit athlete, Patsy Tierney. “This is especially true for women, who are often concerned about losing tone or ‘feeling flabby’, which really equates to losing muscle mass,” she says. “Strength training doesn’t have to be just about squats and bench press, but can involve all types of activities and equipment, such as circuits with kettle bells and dumbbells.”

WHERE: Local gyms and Pilates studios, or call Arthritis Australia on 1800 011 041.

YOGA

“My top anti-ageing tips are building strength in the legs and continually challenging the balance,” says Stephanie Cunningham from Yoga Lightness who teaches yoga to seniors. “Poses that strengthen the quadriceps – such as squats and standing warrior poses – help to increase mobility and stamina and should be held for as long as the student can breathe easily,” she explains. “Balance can be improved, but must be continually challenged.” WHERE: Visit yogaaustralia.org.au or findyoga.com.au.

AQUA EXERCISE

Water-based exercise has many antiageing benefits, with studies finding it helps improve agility, balance and muscular strength, as well as reducing joint pain. “Exercising in water is low impact, making it an ideal way to improve strength, flexibility and range of motion,” says Ali Cavill, owner of Fit Fantastic. “You get a great cardiovascular and strength workout. Plus, the aqua classes can be fun.” WHERE: Local pools and community colleges, or call Arthritis Australia on 1800 011 041.