Full Breakdown
Maintaining Fitness and Health as We Age
9/22/2025, 12:13:15 PM
Vail Health Panel Discusses Aging and Fitness
On Tuesday, Vail Health hosted a panel titled "Fitness as You Age" at the EagleVail Pavilion, focusing on how individuals can maintain fitness throughout their lives. Dr. Sarah Robinson, a family medicine physician and U.S. Ski and Snowboard Team physician, emphasized that fitness in older age is not about regaining youth but about enhancing confidence and independence. She stated, “What we do in our 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s and beyond shapes how strong and independent we remain decades from now.”
The Importance of Muscle Maintenance
Muscle loss can begin as early as age 30, with many individuals losing up to a third of their muscle mass by their 60s. Dr. Robinson noted that this decline is exacerbated by inactivity and insufficient protein intake. She encouraged regular strength training and adequate protein consumption, likening muscle maintenance to a retirement account: “What you deposit now through movement and protein intake will pay dividends for years to come.” Lindsey Duhamel, a physical therapist, added that starting strength training with light exercises can significantly benefit older adults.
Bone Health and Osteoporosis Prevention
Dr. Robinson highlighted the importance of bone health, particularly for women, who are four times more likely to develop osteoporosis. She recommended a daily intake of 1,000 to 1,200 milligrams of calcium and Vitamin D supplements to aid calcium absorption. Weight-bearing activities and resistance training are crucial for stimulating bone growth, as “bone adapts when it’s used,” according to Robinson.
Addressing Balance and Joint Health
Balance training is essential for older adults, as falls are a leading cause of fractures. Dr. Robinson advised that individuals with osteoarthritis should remain active, stating, “Movement is medicine.” Low-impact activities such as swimming, cycling, and yoga can help manage joint pain while strengthening surrounding muscles.
The Impact of Altitude on Aging
Living at high altitudes presents unique challenges for older adults, including reduced oxygen levels that can accelerate bone loss and impact sleep quality. Dr. Robinson suggested consulting a primary care physician if experiencing fatigue or sleep disturbances, as these may indicate nocturnal hypoxia.
Mental Health Benefits of Exercise
Genevieve Harrison, a health coach, emphasized that exercise is a powerful tool for mental health. Establishing a personal motivation for fitness can enhance commitment to a routine. Harrison encouraged making fitness enjoyable through varied activities and social engagement, noting, “We are wired as humans to move together.”
Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Aging
The panel underscored that maintaining fitness as one ages involves a multifaceted approach, including strength training, proper nutrition, balance exercises, and social engagement. By prioritizing these elements, individuals can enhance their quality of life and independence as they age.
