Fifty is a magical number when you're a new stock photographer. Fifty images online qualifies you for exclusivity, assignments, and generally feeling a member of the community. When Half a Century is your age, however, and you start to feel the aches and pains of carrying equipment, contorting to get the perfect shot, and spending hours at the computer processing, keywording and uploading, you quickly realize that health and fitness are going to be just as important as photographic skills in your success.

I have to admit when I was younger, Jimmy Dean and I shared the same philosophy


Live Fast





Die Young





Leave a Pretty Corpse



Except now I can't stay awake past 11 o'clock and the corpse ain't so pretty anymore. I knew I need to change my ways if I want to be Fit at 50




Diet and exercise are the cornerstones of a healthy lifestyle


A good diet is a balance between sufficient caloric intake with nutritional requirements




It is important to first understand what you are eating





Then to eat the right things in the right proportions



This means unlimited fruits and vegetables




Include plenty of healthy whole grains




Eat healthy fats like nuts, avocados and olives

While limiting the saturated fats found in meats and dairy





Alcohol has no nutritional value at all

So you shouldn't drink
(at least not in public)



And sweets should be kept to a reasonable amount

(but every mother knows
there are no calories
if you eat just the ears)





Diet books will tell you the best exercise is the one you will do, the best time to exercise is when you will do it. Fitness books will tell you to combine



Cardio Training



with Strength and Flexibility

Both will agree


Always see your doctor
Before starting any exercise program










Remember to do proper warm-ups and cool-downs




And to hydrate before, during and after exercise




To avoid injuries that can put you on the sideline.









Participation is sports can be another good way to improve physical fitness while adding variety to your routine. The key is to find the sport that's right for you.




Tennis wasn't for me











But have discovered Golf




Is something my husband and I





Enjoy Together







The keys to a healthy and fit lifestyle at any age are simple



Eat Right




Exercise Regularly




Get Plenty of Sleep




Don't Smoke







See your Doctor for routine check-ups






And remember to always keep your life in balance
Whether at work or at play