Aches, Pains and Obstacles
13 March 2021
Aches, Pains and Obstacles (we’ve all got ‘em)
When I was 35 years old (I’m 56 now) things started to hurt. Minor injuries took longer to heal. It took many months before light dawned on my marble head and that’s when I realized that I was getting older. At the same time, I had a few friends who were dealing with significant health issues. With all of that, real life started getting REAL.
As each year clicked by, I realized that aches, pains and obstacles were the new normal. And though my descriptions below are open to wide interpretations, here’s my take on each.
Aches
There’s two types. The predictable after an especially hard workout or a new weekend warrior type activity. And then there’s the unpredictable, that seem to come out of no where. I get ‘em both. Often.
The workout/weekend warrior type, I wear as a badge of courage. Well done. Let’s do it again really soon. The one that comes from out of no where type is a bit more frustrating. But since they generally pass within 36 hours, I try to blow it off. ( Last night my back hurt a bit. Was it from wrestling with my kid, chasing my dog? Who the hell knows and it doesn’t hurt anymore) I’ve learned to live with both types and accept them as part of the deal, now that I’m closing in on 57 years old.
Pains
Now it’s time to get serious. Lingering pain is legit. Can you trace the source? Did you trip over your foam roller like I did last week? If it starts getting better pretty quickly, generally you’re good to go. If that pain continues, gets worse, travels, it’s time to talk with some sort of doctor. Take it seriously. And advice for everyone, including me, try not to be a dumb ass and trip over your foam roller.
Obstacles
Real life gets in the way, a lot. Stresses, both real and imagined, keep coming at us from all directions. COVID, money, money, COVID, wear a mask, don’t wear a mask, it’s a strong stream of real-life issues to deal with. Obstacles can be avoided, busted through or ignored. One size does not fit all, but generally we figure it out at some point.
Recognizing the difference between your aches, pains and obstacles play an important part in continuing forward in your exercise program. I’ve seen too many people shut down a program when there was no reason to do so. Twisted ankle? It happens. Doesn’t mean you can’t lift weights for your upper body and do core exercise. Shoulder hurts from practicing too many tennis serves? Time to work those legs! The point is, unless there is something truly debilitating, we can usually find a way to do some sort of exercise.
I welcome your comments. Even the ones that want me to STFU.
Until next time, please do not trip over that damn foam roller!
I've been a trainer longer than most trainers have been alive. While that doesn't necessarily make me the best, it does come with the wisdom of a vast amount of experience training countless men and women of all ages. My private training work has narrowed itself down to those near or over 50 years old. We are a special breed. and we ain't going down without a fight. (That's my best Dylan Thomas)
Ray Salomone
Hey, I’m on Clubhouse @FitAfter50