4 Things Bodybuilders Over 40 Should Know

Lifting weights and working out may sound like activities largely reserved for young people. However, they aren’t. Don’t let this belief keep you from following your dream. If you want to get into better shape and improve your health, stop caring about what anybody is saying. Age does not determine your capability to perform activities. If you have the heart and determination for it, there is no reason why you can’t become one of the older bodybuilders you may have seen on the internet.

Although it is possible to build muscles at an older age, you still have to be aware of the condition of your body. There’s no doubt that it may not function as well as it did when you were younger. The human body degrades over time, so it is normal to be unable to do things at the same intensity as you could ten years ago. Keep in mind that you might have to work harder than youngsters will. However, the outcome will be worth it.

Are you ready? If so, here are four things that you should know before you start your journey:

 

Your body is not the same

As mentioned above, everyone encounters changes in their physical performance as they age. The older we get, the less weight we can lift. Older people have weaker bones and deteriorating muscles. If you want to be an older bodybuilder, you need to be cautious and prevent injury as much as possible.

 

Your health can be improved

Although there are downsides to getting older, the decline in performance should not keep you from lifting weights. Every doctor will advise you to work out and get your heart rate up. No matter how young or old you are, it is important to make exercise a part of your daily life. Sure, your body may not be able to cope with intense, heavy workouts. However, you can still build muscles and put on some mass. If you keep exercising, you will even eventually be able to slow down the negative physiological effects that come with aging. You will improve your health and strengthen your muscles while training. Nothing can give you better fitness benefits than hitting the gym will. If you take your new work out routine seriously, you might even be one of those older people who compete on bodybuilding stages. Look to them as sources of inspiration and work your way up on that stage. Age cannot stop you from having a better body!

 

The chemistry in your body is different

When you get older, you will begin to see changes in your outward appearance – wrinkles, fine lines, and grey hairs. It isn’t just your physical appearance that will change. The inside of your body will change as well. Every bodybuilder has to take their inner chemistry into consideration. Men eventually experience a decrease in testosterone. This is the primary hormone that provides muscle gain and preservation, energy, mood, and sexual drive. The older you get, the less testosterone will stay in your body. This is why it is more challenging to maintain your muscles as you grow older. For women, the main problem is menopause. Once a woman’s menstrual cycles stop, it isn’t uncommon for her to experience weight gain, lack of energy, and mood swings.

 

Food plays a big role in your bodybuilding journey

To see the best results, it is essential to eat right for your energy levels and muscles. Your diet should be high in protein, healthy fats, and low processed carbs. Lessen the amount of alcohol you consume. Better yet, eliminate it completely. Once your diet is working to your advantage, you won’t struggle as much in the gym. We help with fitness for men over 40, get in touch & look at our other posts for more tips.