It really really matter what the study is — exercise always seems to be part of the regimen, or even the solution. Everyone knows that when you don’t use it, you lose it! I believe that being independent is one of the greatest priorities when you get older, but actually it really starts in puberty. As you grow older and your body isn’t what it used to be, it takes greater effort to accomplish something. There is nothing wrong with that. So it takes you a little bit longer to get up the stairs — at least you still doing it! Our older active adults at the YMCA inspire me. They continue to exercise and keep moving. It’s a choice isn’t it? Too many times, people give in too quickly, blaming injuries, old age or having no time as reasons not to exercise.

As I have mentioned before, if health, exercising and staying on a healthy weight were easy, everyone would do it. But it isn’t — it’s a choice that you need to make and only you can do it. We trainers and instructors can assist you, but you have to put in the effort.

I see too many people who have an excuse for not staying with it. Whether it is MS (multiple sclerosis), a bad back, old age or arthritis, exercise will help you deal with it and improve your quality of life. It’s the mindset that will make you succeed or fail.

We have many older active adults at the YMCA. I call them my poster “children” — the ones who are 70 or over but continue to strive to grow old gracefully and independently. Exercise helps your brain function, it keeps your muscles and bones strong and gives you a sense of power and control of your body. A strong body, mind and spirit, positive thoughts and staying independent — you would think everyone would want that, right?

To feel good and reach the goals you set for yourself, you have to work to get there. You need to set them for a suitable time frame and just do it!

Growing old gracefully, healthy and happy and independently — isn’t that what all of us want? Then get up and start today!

Ester H Marsh Associate executive Director JF Hurley Family YMCA