As we continue aging, the changes in the body become more obvious. Instead of denial and resistance to the naturally occurring conditions, we can accept that it may require more effort than it did in our younger years. But we still have every opportunity to embrace and experience the beauty and strength that every body possesses, no matter what the age. In that way, maturity becomes a ripening.

In our teens, 20s and even 30s it is easy to take our bodies for granted. Unless we are ill, it’s easy to fall into the belief that the body will take care of it itself. As we approach midlife, the changes taking place within the body become more apparent, like more body fat, less lean muscle tissue, loss of strength and stamina. But there is no reason why you can’t make progress in your 40s, 50s and even 60s, 70s and beyond. Old age is more an attitude than an inevitable physical condition. Recognize that age can be a relative term.

One of the first things to remember is to keep a positive attitude. Instead of making statements like, "I used to this," and "I once did that," instead say, "I’m going to do this" and "I can do that." Along with a positive attitude, consistency is a key factor. Making your health and well-being a high priority, create the time to exercise regularly (3 or 4 times a week). Infrequent workouts are the quickest way of feeling older. So to keep motivation levels high, working with a personal trainer and training at a gym where your goals and potential are recognized and encouraged is very helpful.

One can easily live fully and train regularly during the later years by structuring the environment so that goal-enhancing behaviors are rewarded. I feel I’m only being honest when I say Lumina Fitness and the personal trainers working there create such an environment.