Staying physically fit into your 60s and beyond isn’t just about winning the genetic lottery. It’s about the little things you do each day that add up over time.
Think of it this way: you don’t just wake up one morning, suddenly in great shape. It’s a slow and steady process, a series of habits that men who stay in shape adopt and stick to, day in and day out.
And the best part? These habits are simple to incorporate into your daily routine, regardless of your age or current fitness level.
In this article, I’ll share with you seven simple habits that men who remain physically fit into their 60s and beyond tend to adopt.
By incorporating these habits into your own life, you can lay the foundation for lifelong fitness and wellbeing.
1) They make exercise a priority
We all know the saying: “If you don’t make time for your wellness, you’ll be forced to make time for your illness.” This couldn’t ring truer for men who stay physically fit into their 60s and beyond.
It’s no secret that as we age, our bodies naturally begin to slow down. But that doesn’t mean we should just accept it. Men who stay fit as they age understand this, and they make exercise a non-negotiable part of their daily routine.
They don’t view exercise as a chore or something they have to squeeze into their schedule. Instead, it’s an essential part of their day, just like eating or sleeping.
And the best part? They keep it simple. You won’t find them trying to keep up with the latest fitness trends or pushing themselves to the point of exhaustion.
Instead, they focus on sustainable, enjoyable forms of exercise – whether that’s a brisk walk in the morning, a bike ride in the afternoon, or a yoga class in the evening.
Making exercise a priority is one of the key habits that men who stay fit into their 60s and beyond adopt. Because they understand that every little bit counts when it comes to staying physically active and maintaining overall wellbeing.
2) They eat mindfully
Here’s a personal story. My father, now in his late 60s, has always been an advocate for mindful eating. He’s not a diet fanatic or a health guru.
Instead, he just understands the importance of listening to his body and eating in a way that nourishes him.
Growing up, I remember him always making time for breakfast, no matter how busy he was. He would sit down at the table with his bowl of oatmeal and cup of coffee, and he would eat slowly, enjoying each bite.
He taught me that eating isn’t just about fueling our bodies. It’s also an opportunity to slow down and appreciate the food we’re consuming.
As he’s gotten older, this habit has stuck with him. He still takes the time to sit down and enjoy his meals instead of eating on the run or mindlessly snacking in front of the TV.
And he’s convinced that this is one of the reasons he’s been able to maintain his physical fitness into his 60s and beyond.
Eating mindfully doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s just about being present during mealtimes and paying attention to what you’re putting into your body. It’s a simple habit, but one that can make a big difference when it comes to staying fit and healthy as you age.
3) They get plenty of sleep
Sleep is often overlooked when it comes to physical fitness. But did you know that people who sleep less than 7 hours a night on average are more likely to have health problems like obesity, heart disease, and diabetes?
Men who stay physically fit into their 60s and beyond understand the importance of good sleep hygiene. They know that getting a good night’s sleep isn’t just about feeling rested the next day.
It plays a vital role in everything from the repair and growth of muscle tissue to the regulation of hormones that control our appetite.
Incorporating good sleep habits into your routine – like going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, making your bedroom a comfortable and quiet environment, and avoiding screens before bed – can significantly improve your overall health and fitness levels.
So if you’re looking to stay fit as you age, don’t underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep.
4) They stay hydrated
Water is the unsung hero of our bodies. It keeps our joints lubricated, helps deliver nutrients to our cells and aids in digestion.
It’s no wonder that men who maintain their fitness into the 60s and beyond make a habit of staying well-hydrated.
They understand that hydration isn’t just about quenching your thirst. It plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal body function, especially during exercise.
They know that even mild dehydration can affect physical performance and energy levels.
So how do they do it? They keep it simple. They start their day with a glass of water, have a water bottle handy throughout the day and make sure to replenish fluids after exercise.
Remember, when it comes to staying fit as you age, the small habits can make a big difference. And staying hydrated is one of those simple yet impactful habits.
5) They maintain a positive mindset
At the end of last year, I faced a significant health setback. It’s easy to let such events get you down and throw in the towel.
But one thing I’ve learned from watching men who’ve maintained their physical fitness well into their 60s and beyond is the power of a positive mindset.
These men don’t see aging as a decline but rather as a new phase of life with its own unique challenges and opportunities. They look at fitness not as a task or chore, but as a gift, an investment in their future selves.
When faced with obstacles, they choose to see them not as roadblocks but as hurdles to overcome. This attitude helps them stay motivated and committed to their fitness journey, even when things get tough.
Maintaining a positive mindset can be difficult, especially in the face of adversity. But it’s a habit that can make all the difference when it comes to staying physically fit as you age.
6) They take time for recovery
It’s easy to think of fitness as a constant push – more reps, more miles, more intensity. But men who stay physically fit into their 60s and beyond understand that recovery is just as important as the workout itself.
These men know that rest days aren’t just for slacking off. They’re an essential part of a fitness routine. They give your body a chance to repair itself, build strength, and prevent injuries.
This could mean taking a leisurely walk instead of a vigorous run, doing some gentle yoga, or simply taking the time to stretch and relax.
Taking time for recovery is a habit that not only helps maintain physical fitness but also promotes a balanced and sustainable approach to overall health and wellness. It’s about listening to your body and giving it what it needs to perform at its best.
7) They keep it consistent
If there’s one thing you should take away from this, it’s the importance of consistency. Men who stay physically fit into their 60s and beyond aren’t workout warriors or diet extremists.
They’re individuals who have made a commitment to their health and stick to it, day in, day out.
They understand that it’s not about perfecting every single workout or eating a flawless diet every day. It’s about showing up consistently and making small, sustainable changes that add up over time.
Consistency is the key to any successful fitness journey. It might not feel like you’re making progress in the short term, but over time, these small daily habits can lead to big changes in your physical fitness and overall wellbeing.
Embracing the journey
The essence of staying physically fit into your 60s and beyond isn’t about chasing after youth or defying the natural process of aging. It’s about embracing the journey and understanding that our bodies are capable of incredible things at any age.
The habits we’ve discussed aren’t quick fixes or magic solutions. They’re small, sustainable changes that, when implemented consistently, can have a profound impact on your overall health and wellbeing.
And it’s not just about physical fitness. It’s about fostering balance and resilience, nurturing meaningful connections with others, and gaining a deeper understanding of ourselves.
As Socrates once said, “No man has the right to be an amateur in the matter of physical training. It is a shame for a man to grow old without seeing the beauty and strength of which his body is capable.”
So whether you’re in your 30s, 40s, 50s or beyond, remember that it’s never too late to start. You are capable of more than you think. And every step you take towards a healthier lifestyle is a step towards living your best life.
After all, staying fit into your 60s and beyond isn’t just about adding years to your life. It’s about adding life to your years.
