IS IT USEFUL TO ENGAGE IN SPORTS IN MIDDLE AND OLDER AGE?

Abstract

The ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle said: "Movement is life, and life is life."

It is known that people who lead a sedentary lifestyle get sick more often and live less on average than those who actively move and do sports. The ability to do intensive sports decreases over the years, but it is important to maintain motor activity in old age, because the lack of physical activity accelerates the aging process of the body and aggravates the course of many diseases characteristic of old age.

Doctors note that physically active elderly people have better cardiovascular and respiratory systems, higher physical and mental performance, better memory and coordination of movements, and accordingly, they are more independent and confident in their abilities.

In old age, physical exercises and regular activity are necessary to slow down aging processes, prevent age-related diseases, and strengthen the body. Even the presence of chronic diseases is not a contraindication to moderate physical exertion. Of course, there are examples of successful age athletes and even long-term athletes, but in old age, it is still not recommended to do sports, but rehabilitative physical activity and exercises, selected taking into account the capabilities and health status of an elderly person.