As we get older and older, it is more and more difficult to lose weight. Our muscles and joints become less cooperative as the years go passing by, because they get stiffer, they hurt more, and the exercising is far from convenient.

Our metabolism slows down, which proves the fact that on average we burn 1 to 2% fewer calories every decade. That’s because we lose our muscle mass and we put on some fat. But, as our age goes up and we become less and less careful, our weight is just going up.

A NSCA-certified strength and conditioning specialist and personal trainer once stated “If you know the roadblocks and how to work around them – it’s easy to be successful at dropping pounds.”

Here we have the 7 tricks to lose weight at any age:

• Pick Up Those Weights

If you lose muscle, your metabolism slows down. But, it is also true when people say they can’t lose weight like they used to. The reason for this problem is the muscular mass which is more metabolically active than fat and, of course, it requires more energy.

Just to compare, 20% of people have less muscle mass than they had when they were 20. Brian Durbin says “The good news is you can turn all of this around with a well-structured weight-training routine, which can increase your muscle mass and help you regain the ability to lose weight like you were able to 20 years ago.”

• Keep an Eye on These Hormones

Our hormones fall out of balance as we get older. Your body could easily slip into fat storage mode if you don’t regularly check your thyroid, adrenal glands, and other hormone levels.

Especially keep an eye on testosterone, because it will be easier to stay fit and slim down if you have it enough. A balanced level of testosterone regulates your blood glucose levels, which is important for losing belly fat.

• Go Easy On Those Joints

Aches and pains can deprive you from staying active. Aches and pains can become quite common as we get older, and before we get conscious of them, the situation can become very bad.

Choose activities that are easy on your joints, like walking and jumping in the pool. Jumping in the pool is water exercise, which means that your body has to work harder in the water, and can burn up to 30% more calories in the process. Water exercises can be really fun and, of course, they are easier to do.

Cycling and yoga are two other good options if water and walking are not your cup of tea.

• But Don’t Go Too Easy

If you want good results, you will have to push yourself. While you exercise, make sure you are not in pain.

Work out hard enough to break a sweat and complete the full range of motion of every exercise, because you should put the effort in to get the result out. After working out, your body should feel better, not worse.

• See a Physical Therapist

It is a good idea to visit your physical therapist if you are worried about your aches and pains. They will give you the best instructions and, they will also help you about what activities are best for your metabolism.

• Change Your Diet

Needless to say that your dietary needs change as you get older. Your body needs fewer calories, but more nutrients. Forget the days of eating empty calories. Now, you must focus on nutrient dense foods, eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.

• Don’t Let Stress Take Over

The stress is more and more present in our lives as we get older. Durbin says “The average 50-year-old has many more responsibilities than their younger peers. They’re often in their prime income-generating years, which means extra responsibilities at work. They may also have kids who are going to college – a financial burden – or have aging parents who they’re helping to care for”.

No matter what the reason is, the stress will always be present, which may become the reason why you don’t have enough time to hit the gym.

Durbin also recommends scheduling time for exercise like you have an appointment. One of the best ways to ease stress is getting into a good consistent exercise routine.

Use this tips for losing your weight, and we truly hope that your age will be the only number that goes up.