2 forms of exercise are the best way to stave off the effects of aging — here's how to incorporate them into your life

If you're searching for an all-natural way to lift your mood, preserve muscle tone, and protect your brain against the decline that comes with aging, look no further than the closest mirror.

One of the most powerful means of reaping these benefits is exercise — and in many cases, you already have everything you need to get it: a body.

As we age, two forms of exercise are the most important to focus on: aerobic exercise, or cardio, which gets your heart pumping and sweat flowing, and strength training, which helps keep aging muscles from dwindling over time.

And most of the time, they don't require any fancy equipment or expensive classes.

Read on to find out how to incorporate both forms of fitness into your life.

See Also:

• There's even more evidence that 2 forms of exercise are the best way to keep your brain young

• What your daily routine should look like, according to science

• I tried a science-backed eating plan tied to a better mood and longer life — and never felt like I was dieting

SEE ALSO: 14 ways one type of exercise is the closest thing to a miracle drug we have