Feeling my age

I'll be 55 in 2 weeks, & I detail in my spare time. It's a hobby, plus I earn a few extra $$. I was up over 300 lb, but I've lost over 50 lbs since last September. I'm in the gym lifting 3 times/wk. I usually pop a Naproxen before I start on a car. I was leaning over polishing a hood last night & my back started talking to me. So I just eased off a bit, & worked on another part of the car until the pain eased. That's how I handle it.
 
mcate said:
I was up over 300 lb, but I've lost over 50 lbs since last September.
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Congrats on that! I was told by the Dr. that I needed to lose 15 and that was hard, I have to commend someone that can lose 50!
 
Young pups... ;)
I'm 72 and still detailing. Maybe only one a week now. The key for me is to stay physically active. I do about 30 minutes of exercise and light weights to loosen up and I jog a mile every morning to slow muscle mass from disappearing and stay fit.

After age 40 we all start losing muscle mass at around .5% a year and after 50 it is more likely 1% a year. You can reduce that effect through a healthy diet high in protein and regular exercise.

Arthritis can also be a big issue as you age. I know it is for me. Pay attention to your body, it's the only one you will have for the rest of your life. I started this healthy routine years ago after my wife pointed out that I was taking better care of the cars I was detailing than of my body. I'd bet that applies to most of us here. I dropped 35 pounds and stayed lean and fit. Yet there is no doubt, pain management is part of aging. Aleve is useful for pain and inflammation as well. Discuss with your Dr. at your next annual checkup.
 
BillE said:
One truth is, as one gets older you WILL slow down. There isn't any cure for aging.

It is hard to get everything moving after a long winter, just go easy till the body is 'more awake'.

I've just accepted the fact the getting older ain't for sissies (LOL).

Oh, I'm in my 70's.

Bill
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Ditto...62 here and I just take my time. Be thankful you can do these things you like...
 
I'm 45 and I agree, staying in shape to a point really goes a long way for sure. While working on the car drinking alot of water or Gatorade really helps. The working out during the week helps keep everything loose, as we all know, there's alot of stretching that takes place, bending down and up and down and up and sometimes using muscles that don't get worked too often. When you feel you need to sit it out for a bit....DO IT!
 
rcoops77 said:
Stay active. No need to go overboard though. A good walk a few times a week will make the difference.
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This. My job keeps me moving, very hands on, and my days off are often spent cleaning or doing something around the house, let alone playing with my son. With my wife working the days I have off, all household chores are my duty my days off. All my friends who have desk jobs and sit around at home all day have less energy than me.

Swimming is the best single exercise there is. Running is also good for you, and typically more convenient. Stretching before and after any work or workout is important.

As mentioned, stay hydrated! You need to be peeing clear all day, lol. Consume lots of potassium too to help with soreness, so bananas or coconut water.
 
"Take Care of Yourself"---above all;
On this: My pals, and I, do agree.
TO WIT: Can't hardly beat the Mall
For all-year 'round activities... :props:




Bob
 
Never too old or young to accomplish anything. I started this hobby at 15 grew my supplies and now do near what people do on this forum. While this hobby is more of an "old man" type deal, I see lots of the newer generations doing it more and more
 
jwgreen6 said:
I'm 55 and have been detailing part time for the past 4 years or so. Today I washed, dried, compounded, polished and waxed my 2001 Grand Prix. Took me 4 hours and turned out really nice, but I'm feeling my age.

How old is too old to detail cars? I'd like to make a few bucks detailing, but what good is it if I need 2-3 days to recover from each job?

What do you "mature" detailers do to keep the ravages of time in check?
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You're not old at 55. Maybe inactive this harsh winter and a job like this was a shock. Like going to the gym after some time off.
 
I recently turned 20, but have been into detailing for just over 2 years and have had an injured back for almost 2 years. It's finally getting better. In fact I did a correction on my dad's car without any pain for the first time!
What I have realized is that staying hydrated is extremely important, especially in the summer. I also have had knee problems and wear knee braces or compression sleeves. Just as long as you put yourself in a situation where you can fully devote your attention to the task then it doesn't matter how long it takes. You will be having great results!
 
All kidding aside, you people need to start taking red deer antler velvet...I've never had problems detailing, but I took it in preparation for powerlifting meets (as long as the federation does not ban the DAV). Take those babies, and you'll never be sore again. Your finger and toe nails will grow like crazy though.
:idea:
 
I'm 72 and having maintained my fitness(mostly) for the last 40 years by serious cycling and hiking. I find that I lose endurance quickly at this age and if I slack off, a 4-5 hr job wears me out. When fit. No problem.
 
I'm 65 and I try and pace myself. I will take a break to eat and hydrate and then continue as long as my back holds up. It usually takes me two days to do my Lexus sedan and 1 day for my Porsche. Hopefully I can continue to detail my cars for another 10 or so years.
 
60 Years old here,
I agree stay in shape and hydrate. :dblthumb2:
 
72, 65 & 60 and still fit and active. That's what I love to hear!
 
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