How to Stay in Shape as You Reach 40

Many of us are a few years away from reaching 40 and cannot believe it is true. While 40 is the new 30, it still sounds old. So, how do you stay young?

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Healthy food
• A positive attitude
• Exercise shoes
• Weights
• Kids (or a large dog)

1. Age is really a state of mind. Do not focus on the fact you are nearing 40. Focus instead on the fact that you feel better now than you did 10 years ago.

2. Dress younger than you are, act younger than you are, and don't take life too seriously.

3. Eat healthy during the week and splurge a little on weekends. Avoid fried foods, heavy sauces, red meat and creamy desserts.

4. Wake up early and take a long walk, hike, or run. Being outside early wakes you up and make you feel invigorated for the rest of the day.

5. Get into the gym at least three days per week and lift some weights. Old guys don't lift weights so if you're lifting weights ... you must not be getting old.

6. Make time to chase your kids (or big dog) around every day. Nothing keeps you younger than trying to keep up with their boundless energy.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't have kids, chase the neighbor's kids around.
• Don't lift too heavy weights -- do at least 10-12 reps.
• Go high protein and low carbs; try and avoid all fried foods.
• Get outside as much as you can.
• Check with a doctor before you start lifting weights or change your diet.
• Make sure the neighbors are OK with you chasing their kids around.

[Arathi]

on 10/25/2009 Age is a state of mind indeed. Good advice. Thanks for sharing.

[looptheloop]

on 5/9/2009 Thank you.

[StacyP]

on 11/29/2008 Good advice. I need to get my rear end into gear!

[ActorAndHost]

on 6/16/2008 I'm thinking more and more about this as I near 50. I'm in very good shape, but I have to work on my abs. When I turn 50 next year, I will be in the best shape of my life!!! Good article to get people thinking.

[bmi57]

on 10/30/2007 These days you really have to make sure the neighbors are OK with you chasing their kids, I had to laugh, that was funny. Great article. Thanks.