You don't stop exercising because you're old, you get old because you stop exercising

A PHRASE I often share with my patients is: “You don’t stop exercising because you're old, you get old because you stop exercising.” It’s more than just a motivational line. It’s science, it’s prevention, and it’s a reality I see daily in practice.

- TAS CHETTY

Ageing versus deconditioning:

Many people believe that slowing down, losing strength or struggling with mobility are simply a result of ageing.

While age certainly plays a role in how our bodies respond, the truth is that much of what we call “ageing” is actually deconditioning, the decline that comes from reduced movement and exercise.

Muscle mass, bone density, balance and joint mobility all diminish rapidly when left unused. This is not about being 60, 70, or 80 years old. It’s about inactivity.

Think of it this way: the body is designed to adapt to the demands you place on it. If the demand is minimal, the body adapts by conserving energy and reducing strength.

The cost of not exercising:

When you stop exercising, you don’t just lose muscle tone, you set off a chain reaction:

◆ Muscle weakness increases fall risk.

◆ Joint stiffness makes daily tasks harder.

◆ Bone density loss increases risk of fracture.

◆ Poor circulation leads to poor energy levels.