For many, their 40th birthday is a significant one because it marks their full transition into middle adulthood. While that may not exactly be an exciting milestone to cross, it is important for 40-year old adults to realize that they need to start making changes in order to maintain their health, wellness, and happiness as they get older. The good news is that you don’t have to be a fitness guru to make smart health choices well into your 40s. Rather, just by focusing on these four habits, you can protect your health and ensure you remain fit and active for years to come. Check them out here to learn more:

Communicate Regularly with Your Doctor

The plain truth is that people over 40 years of age are more susceptible to developing certain medical problems than younger individuals. So even if you take good care of yourself, it’s a wise idea to schedule regular checkups with your doctor once you turn 40. Remember, medical professionals have access to a wide variety of equipment –– like 50 ml serological pipettes –– that they can use to diagnose and treat a number of common issues. Some people may be hesitant to visit their doctor, but doing so is one of the best ways to protect your long-term health and wellness.

Cut Out Junk Food

As you get older, it becomes more difficult for your body to burn fat and metabolize lots of calories quickly. This means that while junk food isn’t ever “good” for you, it can be much worse to continue to eat unhealthy snacks and fatty foods once you reach a certain age. Make it a point to replace sweet snacks like candy with fruit, and avoid fast-food restaurants as often as possible. Trust us, your body will thank you for it!

Join a Fitness Group

People who work out with others are more likely to experience positive outcomes than individuals who work out alone. So by signing up for a yoga class, joining a recreational sports league, or simply arranging workouts with your friends, you’ll give yourself a great chance of reaching your new fitness goals. 

Get More Rest

A young person in the prime of their life might get away with burning the midnight oil and working out three times a day for a while, but older individuals shouldn’t push themselves that hard. Developing quality sleep habits and resting up between workouts are both essential practices that will prevent numerous issues from cropping up. Keep in mind that it’s okay to listen to your body and to relax when you need a break. Learning this lesson quickly will save you tons of stress down the line.