How Seniors Can Get More Exercise
No matter what age you are, incorporating exercise and a well-balanced diet will ensure your health and longevity. For seniors, exercise and physical activity increases mobility and actually prevents certain signs of aging. It’s important to remember that if you have been inactive for some time, start slowly towards your goal.
Always check with your physician or caretaker before starting any new exercise routine.
There are four main types of exercises that are safe for seniors. Ideally, if you have a routine that incorporates a bit of each, it will make for a more holistic approach and get the best results!
Exercises for Seniors
Endurance Training
Endurance training is great for your cardiovascular system as it increases your breathing and heart rate, while strengthening your heart and blood vessels. It also helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol to prevent the risk of heart disease. Even just 30 minutes a day can make a big impact of your life. Examples of endurance training that are beneficial for seniors:
- Brisk Walking
- Jogging
- Swimming
- Biking
Strength Exercises
These are fantastic for strengthening your muscles, but have a number of other benefits including preventing osteoporosis, arthritis, stress and depression. Examples of strength training for seniors:
- Lifting Light Weights
- Using a Resistance Band
- Pilates
Balance exercises
This helps prevent seniors from falling by strengthening the legs, lower back and core. It makes everyday activities such as going up and down stairs much easier. Examples of balance exercises include:
- Yoga
- Various Chair Exercises
- Tai Chi
Flexibility Exercises
Flexibility exercises stretch your muscles, helping treat stiffness and pain associated with aging. Making time to stretch everyday can have a huge impact on your mobility and core strength preventing you from injury, improving posture and relieving stress. Examples of flexibility exercises for seniors are the same as above, with additional light, comfortable stretching.
It’s Never too Late!
The good news is that no matter what age you are, it’s always a perfect time to start. Not only does it allow you to set goals, but gives you something to look forward to. Work towards your goals slowly and be patient as results take time. To help you stay motivated, have a friend of family member join you, incorporate it into your regular routine, get a trainer, and make sure to set a goal each week!
If you have any concerns or would like some help living more comfortably at home or booking an in home visit, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 1-866-982-2737 and speak with some about setting up an at home care assessment today.
