Age 30 to 39 is a transitional period for men. We have moved past the invincibility of our 20s, but are not yet facing the mid-life mortality that our 40s will bring. Injuries take longer to heal than they once did, but the risk for chronic illnesses is only slightly higher than it was in years prior. We can still physically do most everything that we always have, just not quite as quickly/effectively as we once did. In this transitional phase, what are the best ways to maintain our health for both short and long term prospects? Here are some tips on how to stay healthy as you hit the big three-oh:
* It is in this age range that exercise goes from an activity to make you look good for the ladies to an actual requirement for health benefits. At this point, you will want to focus a little less about weights and strength training and a little more about cardio programs (walking, running, biking, etc.). Anything that gets your heart rate up can be advantageous. While you can still do weight lifting if that is important to you, it should be noted that you are now more prone to muscle sprains and strains. Finding a workout routine is most recommended. Do things that make you break a sweat, but are not likely to lead to injury.
* Probably the hardest aspect for men to change is their nutrition. But poor eating habits in their 30s lead to serious health problems in their 40s and 50s. The strategy here is pretty simple: everything in moderation. You can still eat the occasional junk food or hamburger, just do not make it habit. Also, do not think of this as a diet as much as a lifestyle change. You can still eat until you're full, just work on doing it with items that are better for you. Add some more fruits and vegetables, take away a little bit of soda and beer.
* One of the most important things to remember when you hit thirty is that it is now time to start making regular appointments with a professional. A yearly physical is an absolute must. This allows the doctor to determine baseline numbers and often catch if anything is askew before it becomes noticeable to you. When you do notice any sudden changes or oddities, you will want to go to a professional immediately - where in the past you might have been more willing to sit on it until it got better.
* Remember, it is about making some subtle (not drastic) changes to your lifestyle at this point. Get yourself into the habit of living healthier, because it is only going to get more difficult from here on out. It is much easier to slowly make simple changes for a long healthy life, rather than drastic changes down the road that are much less likely to take hold. Your 30s are your new 20s, or something along those lines!
* It is in this age range that exercise goes from an activity to make you look good for the ladies to an actual requirement for health benefits. At this point, you will want to focus a little less about weights and strength training and a little more about cardio programs (walking, running, biking, etc.). Anything that gets your heart rate up can be advantageous. While you can still do weight lifting if that is important to you, it should be noted that you are now more prone to muscle sprains and strains. Finding a workout routine is most recommended. Do things that make you break a sweat, but are not likely to lead to injury.
* Probably the hardest aspect for men to change is their nutrition. But poor eating habits in their 30s lead to serious health problems in their 40s and 50s. The strategy here is pretty simple: everything in moderation. You can still eat the occasional junk food or hamburger, just do not make it habit. Also, do not think of this as a diet as much as a lifestyle change. You can still eat until you're full, just work on doing it with items that are better for you. Add some more fruits and vegetables, take away a little bit of soda and beer.
* One of the most important things to remember when you hit thirty is that it is now time to start making regular appointments with a professional. A yearly physical is an absolute must. This allows the doctor to determine baseline numbers and often catch if anything is askew before it becomes noticeable to you. When you do notice any sudden changes or oddities, you will want to go to a professional immediately - where in the past you might have been more willing to sit on it until it got better.
* Remember, it is about making some subtle (not drastic) changes to your lifestyle at this point. Get yourself into the habit of living healthier, because it is only going to get more difficult from here on out. It is much easier to slowly make simple changes for a long healthy life, rather than drastic changes down the road that are much less likely to take hold. Your 30s are your new 20s, or something along those lines!