Age is just a number, and countless seniors prove the adage right by going the extra mile with their fitness initiatives. But incontinence may impede your goals and plans because leaking urine during a gym session or aerobics class is embarrassing. At the same time, heavy diapers can make you uncomfortable and hinder movement while working out. But the truth is that incontinence and fitness can go hand in hand, provided you manage the condition proactively. Here are some valuable tips to help senior men to stay ahead of their goals despite a leaky bladder.
Speak up about your woes
Men tend to bottle up about age-related issues because discussing things like loss of libido and urinary incontinence tends to affect their self-esteem. But you must open up because a leaky bladder is a common aging woe, with countless men struggling with the condition. Knowing that you are not alone eases your coping journey. Moreover, discussing the problem with a provider enables you to find optimal solutions to keep your fitness plans on track.
Choose your workouts wisely
Low-impact exercises, such as walking and Pilates, are ideal for older men dealing with bladder problems. You can opt for activities like yoga and swimming as they lower pressure on your bladder. Conversely, avoid lifting heavy weights as they can exert pressure on your pelvis. Also, steer clear of high-performance workouts such as squats, plunges, and jumping jacks. Your personal trainer can recommend the best workout plan, so discussing the options with them makes sense.
Wear proper underwear
Staying dry and comfortable should be a priority inside and outside the gym for active men dealing with incontinence. It enables you to focus on tasks instead of worrying about a leak. You can rely on Zorbies Reusable incontinence underwear to stay safe from discomfort and embarrassment. The good thing about the product is that it is light on your wallet because you can reuse it. Moreover, it is like regular underwear, and you can wear it discreetly under your gym shorts.
Train your bladder
Training your bladder is another effective measure to stay active while living with incontinence. The good thing is that you can achieve better control over your bathroom trips within a couple of months, provided you manage the timelines well enough. Set alarms to use the toilet every hour in the beginning, and gradually increase the time gap until you can hold for a few hours. Kegel exercises also strengthen your bladder.
Manage your diet and fluid intake
Fitness-conscious seniors often watch their diet closely. Luckily, the practice can also help you manage incontinence and stay on top of your workout schedules. Steer clear of bladder triggers such as coffee, sugar, and processed foods, as they are most likely culprits. Avoid consuming fluids for a few hours before your workout session. But remember to stay hydrated while you exercise.
Incontinence should not keep you from sticking to your fitness routine as an aging senior. You can follow these tips to avoid leaks and stay comfortable in the gym and everywhere else.
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