WHILE many believe that getting older means getting weaker, new research has revealed it’s far from all doom and gloom when it comes to ageing, with one in five baby boomers reaching peak fitness levels once they hit the big 5-0.
According to the research, commissioned by Ostelin to mark today's National Vitamin D Awareness Day it’s actually the younger generation that needs to exercise more caution, with almost a quarter (23%) of those aged 18 to 40 doing little to no exercise at all.
In comparison, 50-plus Australians are smashing ageing stereotypes with over half (58%) working out at least four times a week and close to one in four (24%) claiming to exercise more than ever before. In fact, almost a third said they felt stronger and more energised now than when they were younger.
However, it’s unlikely you’ll find this new ‘Generation Strong’ on the treadmill or in the pool – rather they’re getting fit in more unconventional ways such as playing with their grandkids, pumping iron at the gym or participating in team sports.
Aimed at raising awareness of the important link between exercise, Vitamin D and bone health, the experts behind National Vitamin D Awareness Day 2016 are calling for all Australians to follow the lead of their older counterparts and take proactive measures to safeguard their bone strength.
Sport and performance psychologist, Jacqui Louder, said that while older Australians were setting an excellent example by prioritising their bone health, the issue did not just impact the elderly.
“Healthy bones are the pillar of overall strength and fitness for all age groups, so while it’s great to see older Australians embracing this mentality and being proactive, it’s equally important that the younger generation act now in order to safeguard their bones and overall health,” she said.
“Many are unaware that we reach peak bone mass around the age of 20 to 30. It is therefore vital that all Australians consider the health of their bones from a much younger age, to prevent future conditions such as Osteoporosis.
Getting outdoors for approximately 7-30 minutes at midday each day during winter will help to maintain your Vitamin D level which is also critical for bone health. Where this is not achievable, eating Vitamin D rich foods such as fatty fish (sardines, herring, mackerel, tuna and salmon), fortified milk, margarines and dairy blend spreads are recommended.”
If you’re concerned about your vitamin D levels, ask your GP or pharmacist to recommend the best tool for you.
