As we grow older, an active lifestyle is more important than ever. Regular exercise can help boost energy, maintain your independence, and manage symptoms of illness or pain. Exercise can even reverse some of the symptoms of aging. And not only is exercise good for your body-it's also good for your mind, mood, and memory.

No matter your age, or your current physical condition, you can benefit from exercise. Reaping the rewards of exercise doesn't require strenuous workouts or trips to the gym. It's about adding more movement and activity to your life, even in small ways. Whether you are generally healthy or are managing an illness-even if you're housebound-there are many easy ways to get your body moving and improve your health.

Four myths about exercise and older adults:

Myth 1

There's no point to exercising. I'm going to get old anyway.

Fact

Exercise and strength training helps you look and feel younger and stay active longer. Regular physical activity lowers your risk for a variety of conditions, including Alzheimer's and dementia, heart disease, diabetes, colon cancer, high blood pressure, and obesity.

Myth 2

Elderly people shouldn't exercise. They should save their strength and rest.

Fact

Research shows that a sedentary lifestyle is unhealthy for the elderly. PERIOD! Inactivity often causes seniors to lose the ability to do things on their own and can lead to more hospitalizations, doctor visits, and use of medicines for illnesses.

Myth 3

Exercise puts me at risk of falling down.

Fact

Regular exercise, by building strength and stamina, prevents loss of bone mass and improves balance, actually reducing your risk of falling.

Myth 4

It's too late. I'm already too old to start exercising.

Fact

You're never too old to exercise! If you've never exercised before, or it's been a while, start with light walking and other gentle activities.

The truth is that you can't afford not to get moving. Exercise is the key to staying strong, energetic, and healthy as you get older.

"You don't stop moving because you get old . . . you get old because you stop moving!" (author unknown)

Editor's note: Candace Sayler is a CFT personal trainer, and runs GETFIT Camps at the Canadian University College gym.