Peter's Principles - Seniors
Heart Smart
Can seniors over 60 play tennis twice a week or more and lift weights regularly without inducing a heart attack?
Seniors and those with a family history of heart disease should not ignore the risks. But the chances can be reduced if simple steps are followed.
Don't exercise for 2 to 3 hours after eating a large meal. The heart muscle itself needs all of the blood it can get and the digestion process diverts some of that blood to the stomach and intestines.
Don't over do it. And here's a great test to determine overexertion. If you can't talk fluidly while walking, jogging or exercising, then slow down. If you can talk and exercise, you're in your training zone.
Finally, pay attention to warning signs. Dizziness, nausea, weakness, shortness of breath or chest pains are warnings to stop exercising and see a doctor.