Stay Fit, Enjoy Sports, and Honor Heroes This Season! 🏅🇺🇸

If You Enjoy Sports, You Need to Be in Shape

A record 11,978 athletes from around the world just wrapped up the Huntsman World Senior Games in Utah. The event has been held since 1987 for athletes 50 and over in everything from track and field to bowling, from basketball to disc golf, and from softball to triathlon.

Those 12,000 people represent the growing enthusiasm behind “older” people enjoying sports.

They’re not letting age keep them from doing what they love.

And many of them know that training at a gym is the best way to build the strength, stamina and agility they need to excel.

How about you? Did you used to enjoy playing a sport or two? Are you hoping to take one up soon?

The truth is, regular exercise at a gym or studio can keep you ready for anything – even if you don’t care about playing sports.

“Be fit – or suffer the consequences,” says the US Tennis Association to anyone who wants to keep playing past middle age.

And it’s not just tennis! Many sports like golf, pickleball, and even running require endurance, flexibility, and power in the legs, butt, and arms. And a solid core will get you farther along in everything.

‘My Secret to Getting Older’

As the Baby Boom generation maintains activities, we’re seeing increases in all kinds of activities.

The number of golfers over 65 rose to 4.2 million in 2018, up 17 percent from the previous year, according to the National Golf Foundation.
Baby boomers make up about 20 percent of US skiers.
More than 15,000 athletes over 50 competed in track and field, softball, pickleball, swimming and more at the National Senior Games in 2019, another omnibus mega-event.

The oldest competitor at this year’s Utah games was Eva Sorensen, 101, of Alexandria, Virginia. She’s a top bowler and shuffleboard player, and she’s been participating in the event for 15 years.

“That’s my secret to getting older,” she told a TV station. “I’m not going to quit. I’m going to make 110 at least.”

The Huntsman Games also boost health of participants with screenings for cancer, glaucoma, diabetes, high blood pressure and more.

Even Runners Need Muscle

Resistance training has been gaining traction among even elite runners partly because humans lose muscle mass starting in midlife.

“My runners that are around 60 might only run three to four days a week and spend the rest of their training time in the gym,” Masters running coach and former Olympian John Henwood told Outside magazine.

Nordic walking is basically just walking with ski poles in your hands, which makes it a good upper-body workout. It’s low impact and easy on the joints.

And pickleball is taking over the world. It’s like a cross between tennis and ping pong, and it’s particularly popular among people over 50.

Sports are fun, social, and good exercise. And working out right helps you enjoy them even more!

Come see us now so you can keep enjoying what you enjoy – whether it’s sports, gardening, dancing, or just living!

Try These Adult Halloween Treats

Who says we can’t have grownup fun enjoying Halloween treats?

IN MODERATION, that is!

Sure, you can enjoy a bit of candy now and then. Allow yourself a small piece or two, enjoy it slowly and mindfully, then have a glass of water and move on with your day.

But better yet are adult treats that you can enjoy more heartily – and without fear of overindulging in sugar-packed junk food.

Sample these candy alternatives during this super-sweet season.

Try dark chocolate squares, 70% or higher. They’re rich in antioxidants and lower in sugar than milk chocolate. Break off one or two small squares to get that chocolate fix without overdoing it.
Apple slices with peanut butter (no sugar added). The apple offers fiber, the peanut butter has healthy fats, and if you measure a serving (usually 2 tbsp), you’re fine.
Homemade energy bites. These are fun to make with kids – oats, nut butter, a little honey, and all the benefits of fiber, protein and a little sweetness.
Homemade popcorn is a whole grain that’s high in fiber and low in calories when air popped. Measure out a serving and stick to it.
Mixed nuts. You could even get a mix with dried fruit or a little chocolate. Check the macros on the nutrition label to make the right choice for you.

Like all holidays, Halloween is supposed to be fun. With a little planning and thoughtfulness, you can enjoy it as much as ever.

And don’t forget to move every day, too!

Meme: Wisdom

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Be a Part of a Stirring Display of Patriotism – Dedicate a Flag Today!

From November 9-11, 2024, the University of Houston Sugar Land Campus will host the 2nd annual Field of Honor®, an awe-inspiring tribute featuring a sea of 2,000 American flags. This moving display represents heroes from all walks of life and is your chance to honor someone special.

Sponsor a Flag, Share a Story

Do you know a veteran, military service member, first responder, educator, or everyday hero? You can sponsor a flag in their name, making their story part of this beautiful panorama. Each flag stands tall, representing a unique individual and their personal journey.

Your Support Makes an Impact

While this event is free to visit, your sponsorship helps continue this touching tribute and supports the charitable efforts of the Exchange Club of Sugar Land. Your participation not only honors a loved one but also contributes to meaningful community initiatives.

Don’t Miss This Unforgettable Experience

Join us in celebrating our heroes. Walk among the flags, feel a deep sense of unity, and give thanks to those who deserve it most. Visit our website or contact us today to sponsor a flag for the 2024 Field of Honor®.

Click here to sponsor a flag and honor a hero: Sponsor Now