Corporate Fitness and Active Aging

Arthritis is not a sign that you are aging; rather, it is a testament to the vibrant life you have led and all the incredible things your body has accomplished for you! Just imagine the tales your joints could share. Now, it is time to embrace a new narrative for this season of your life, embracing those little creaks. By making simple adjustments to your exercise and wellness regime, you can stay active, strong, mobile, and happy. Here is what you can do to keep your joints healthy as you age.  

Adjust your Workouts 

When choosing exercises, it is essential to consider activities that are gentle on the joints but still effective in building strength and flexibility. Here are five arthritis-friendly exercises:  

• Walking: A simple yet effective way to keep moving without putting too much strain on your joints. 

• Swimming: The buoyancy of water supports your body and reduces the impact on your joints while providing an excellent full-body workout. 

• Yoga and Tai Chi: These practices focus on gentle movements, balance, and flexibility, making them ideal for improving joint function and reducing stress. 

• Cycling: Whether stationary or on the road, cycling is a low-impact exercise that helps build muscle strength and improves cardiovascular health. 

Three Lifestyle Habits to Adopt 

• Staying well-hydrated ensures that joint cartilage remains lubricated, which minimizes friction. 

• Quality sleep allows your body to recover and rejuvenate. 

• Consuming nutrient-rich foods packed with minerals can help alleviate arthritis symptoms, such as flare-ups. 

Flare-ups may occur due to changes in temperature or barometric pressure, high-stress situations, alterations in medication, and even weight gain. Understanding what causes flareups can help you manage them better.  

Consider Supplements  

Research has shown that taking natural supplements can decrease your arthritis symptoms. According to the Harvard School of Medicine, supplements like Glucosamine, Boswellia, Turmeric and White Willow Bark have shown to have beneficial effects on joint pain. Like any medication, it is important to find out if there are any contraindication’s and consult with a trained professional researching any supplement, medication, or surgery alternatives.  

Movement is Medicine  

Remember, the key to managing arthritis through exercise is consistency. Even tiny amounts of daily activity can lead to significant improvements in joint health and overall quality of life. So, lace up those sneakers, take that first step, and embrace the benefits that movement can bring to your arthritis care plan.  

Sleep is one of the most powerful tools we have for staying healthy as we age. But for many of us, a good night’s sleep can be hard to come by. Changes in sleep patterns are a normal part of aging, but the good news is there are simple changes you can make to your routine to improve your sleep quality. Finding ways to move your body during the day is a great place to start. 

Why Movement Matters for Sleep 

When you engage in physical activity, your body uses energy and experiences a slight rise in core temperature. As you cool down afterward, your body signals that it’s time to rest — helping you fall asleep faster. Exercise also reduces stress hormones, improves mood, and helps regulate your circadian rhythm. This movement doesn’t need to be high-intensity — a little activity throughout the day can lead to deeper, more restorative sleep. 

The Best Types of Movement for Better Sleep 

• Walking: A simple, low impact walk outside, through hallways, or on a treadmill is a great option. 

• Stretching or Yoga: Gentle stretching can relieve muscle tension and help you relax. 

• Strength Training: Building strong muscles supports mobility and helps reduce those nighttime aches and pains that can keep you awake. 

• Group Fitness Classes: Exercising with friends keeps you motivated and helps you stay social. This can improve your mood and lower stress. 

Timing Your Exercise  

When planning your exercise, try to move your body earlier in the day or at least a few hours before bedtime. Evening exercise can still be beneficial but avoids very intense activity right before bed — it might leave you feeling too energized to fall asleep. For example – take a walk after dinner, stretch while talking on the phone, or do chair exercises while watching TV. 

Pair Movement with a Relaxing Evening Routine 

Once you’ve added movement to your day, set yourself up for a great night’s sleep by creating a calm environment before bed. Dim the lights, avoid screens for 30 minutes, and try a few minutes of deep breathing or gentle stretching to let your body know it’s time to wind down. 

A more restful night often starts with an active day. Find small ways to add movement into your routine. Start with something simple — whether it’s a short walk, some stretching, or a fun fitness class — and you’ll enjoy deeper, more restorative sleep and wake up ready to make the most of tomorrow.