Aging – it’s a word we all dread, right? It’s like an unavoidable reality check that comes creeping in, reminding you that you’re not quite as spry as you once were. But hold up, just because my body might not spring out of bed at the crack of dawn like it used to doesn’t mean I’m ready to hang up my sneakers. Not by a long shot! In fact, I’m still doing most of what I loved to do in my 20s and 30s – well, maybe with a few modifications (read: more stretching).

The key to aging with energy and vitality, for me, lies in regular exercise. Sure, I’m not sprinting marathons or pulling all-nighters anymore, but when it comes to staying active, I’ve discovered the secret sauce that’s not only keeping my body strong but also making me feel like I’m 20 again (okay, 30…ish). If you’re looking to keep that same fire and zest as you age, here's why exercise is your best friend – especially for brain health, heart health, and all-around well-being.

1. Brain Health: Because Who Wants to Forget Where They Put Their Keys?

Let’s get real for a moment – as we get older, our brains don’t always work as quickly as they used to. But here’s the thing: regular exercise is a game-changer for brain health. It promotes better circulation, increases oxygen flow to the brain, and stimulates the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that helps promote new brain cells. Translation: exercise helps keep my mind sharp, focused, and alert – even if I still forget where I put my phone occasionally.

I’m all for keeping my memory in check, especially when it comes to remembering important stuff (like where I put my car keys). Regular physical activity reduces the risk of cognitive decline, which means I’ll still be sharp enough to remember how to navigate my favorite hiking trails or what weights to lift in my home gym, even as I age.

2. Heart Health: Because You Only Get One Heart (Might As Well Keep It Pumping)

You’ve probably heard it a thousand times, but here’s the truth: exercise is one of the best ways to keep your heart healthy. As we age, heart health becomes even more crucial. Exercise helps maintain good circulation, lower blood pressure, and reduce cholesterol levels, all of which contribute to better cardiovascular health. And let’s face it, no one wants to slow down because their heart can’t keep up.

Whether I’m trail running up a mountain (yes, I still love it) or lifting weights in my home gym, I know that I’m not just building strength – I’m also strengthening my heart. Physical activity makes my heart work more efficiently, allowing me to do the things I love without feeling like I’m going to collapse from exhaustion after climbing a few flights of stairs.

3. Mobility and Flexibility: Keeping That “Spring” in My Step

One thing I love about staying active is the freedom it gives me to keep doing what I love. I still trail run, lift weights, and yes, I even chop my own wood – and I’m proud of it! These activities keep my joints flexible, my muscles strong, and my body in motion. Staying active helps maintain my mobility and prevents the stiffness that can come with age.

Regular exercise – particularly activities like weight-bearing exercises – helps preserve bone mass and keeps your body moving freely. That means I can keep up with my trail running, keep lifting weights, and enjoy a little wood-chopping without feeling like I’m walking around with the creaks and groans of a much older version of myself. And if you’ve ever chopped wood, you know it requires a surprising amount of flexibility and strength!

4. Mood and Mental Health: No More Grumpy Old Person Syndrome

Exercise is one of my best tools for staying in a positive mood. It releases endorphins – the feel-good chemicals that make you feel like you’re on top of the world. As we age, we can sometimes feel more stressed or even experience symptoms of depression. But physical activity is a proven mood booster, helping to reduce anxiety and stress.

The best part? Exercise is the perfect antidote to grumpiness. And let’s be honest, no one wants to be the grumpy person in the room (unless it’s because you can’t find your keys, but we’ve already established that might happen to anyone). Whether I’m out running the trails or hitting the weights, I know that I’m not only boosting my heart rate – I’m also boosting my spirits.

5. Do What You Love: Exercise Doesn’t Have to Be a Chore

The most important thing I’ve learned is that exercise doesn’t have to feel like a punishment. It’s about doing what you love and finding the activities that make you feel alive. For me, that means trail running, lifting weights, and yes, even chopping my own wood. These activities keep me connected to nature, help me feel empowered, and allow me to stay strong and healthy as I age.

Whether it’s dancing, swimming, hiking, or even gardening, find what brings you joy. Exercise should be something you look forward to, not something you dread. And when you enjoy what you’re doing, you’re more likely to stick with it long-term – because healthy aging isn’t just about staying active, it’s about staying engaged and excited about life.

6. Longevity and Quality of Life: Because I’m Not Ready to Slow Down

Exercise is the key to not just living longer but living better. It’s not just about avoiding illness; it’s about living – fully, actively, and with joy. When I stay active, I can keep doing the things I love, like hiking to that perfect lookout point or lifting the heavy bags of mulch for my garden without thinking twice.

The best part? Regular exercise keeps me energized, sharp, and ready for whatever life throws my way. I don’t plan on slowing down anytime soon. And with every workout, I’m not just building muscle; I’m building a future where I can keep doing all the things I love as I age gracefully.

So, if you’re looking to age with vitality, energy, and a sense of purpose, the secret is simple: exercise. It’s not about trying to turn back the clock but rather taking care of yourself so you can continue enjoying life to the fullest. Whether you’re trail running, lifting weights, cycling, or even chopping your own wood (no judgment here), just keep moving. It’s the key to maintaining brain health, heart health, and the energy to keep doing what you love.

And if you’re feeling a little bit of resistance to starting – trust me, I get it. But take it from someone who’s still kicking it with the 20-somethings (well, sort of) – the time to start is now. Your future self will thank you.

Join me this year and beyond as I share my personal journey of embracing the physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges that come with aging. Together, we’ll explore the complexities of growing older and discover the beauty in every step of the process with a slice of humour.

Ready to dive deeper into the world of whole person health and aging with vitality? Sign up for my weekly newsletter HERE for expert tips, fun insights, and simple nutrition hacks delivered right to your inbox!