by Velma aka Shammah

Created on: September 05, 2008   Last Updated: November 01, 2008

I just turned 60. I only stopped teaching aerobics and weight training at the YMCA about 4 years ago. I still work out two or three times a week at the gym where I participate in weight training/strengthening classes, dance workouts and use the stair master and other machinery as well as continue with weight training.

I work out every day, in the morning at home, before going to work for about 30 minutes. This involves stretches, light weight training and cooling down with relaxation for about 5 minutes before hitting the shower. It's a great way to start the day, and for any of you ladies not into weights, I highly recommend you get yourself a heavy duty stretch band with handles. It doubles for weights as well by using resistance. I actually travel with mine. You can even use it as a skipping rope (if you're really up to it!). But, to get a cardio workout, you don't need to run or jump. Your cardio increases with arm raises above the chest level.

It's time for a smile. When I was moving in here two years ago the couple (married couple in late 30's early 40's) who owned the condo permitted me to move in some stuff ahead of time, while they were still here. When I walked through the door on one visit I had my roller blades. The guy looks at me, mouth wide open, eyes the size of saucers, and stammers, "You roller blade?!" I burst out laughing and said, "Honey, I ain't dead yet!" You see they knew my age from the paperwork I'd had to fill out. Had they not known my age, by looking at me and judging only by what they saw, I believe he never would have asked that question!

Before my move I also biked into work several times a week, played and continue to play tennis regularly, I participate in volleyball (beach and indoor), baseball and I love ice skating and playing hockey. I downhill and cross country ski, but not as much as I used to. I loved spending the time cross country skiing with my father. We easily did 20km together through the forests around my family property. I last did that about 10 years go. If he was still alive and I lived close, I'd take it up again in a heart beat!

I read a billboard a couple of weeks ago outside of a seniors' complex. It said, "It's all about attitude. Make sure you ASK for a good one!" Well folks, I say age is attitude and I asked for and got a good one. 60 is a number and that's all it is. I can out do most kids in their 20's in aerobics and cycling, and in fact teaching at 56 I was and still am in a hell of a lot better shape than a lot of 20 year olds!

Fitness started young and has always been a part of my lifestyle and shall remain so until I take my last breath. As a matter of fact, fitness is equally important as breathing; it keeps my heart tuned up and my lungs clear!

Now, unlike Jack LaLanne, I haven't tried pulling a trailer with my teeth, but I say, comparatively speaking, "He ain't got nothing on me!" After all, I am a woman, and aren't we women, after all, the "weaker" sex, and yet look how great I am!

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