Exercise is an integral part of everyday health for people of all ages, including older adults. There are many benefits of exercising when you’re a senior. This can include some of the following:
- It will improve strength and help seniors remain independent.
- It can improve balance, preventing falls and injuries.
- It provides more energy to remain active.
- It can prevent or delay common diseases that seniors experience.
- It improves physical and mental well-being.
According to the CDC, it’s recommended that adults aged 65 and older get at least 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity activity. This could also be 75 minutes a week of vigorous-intensity activity or at least two days a week of activities that strengthen muscles.
Tips for Safe Exercise
It’s never too late to start being physically active. Consider some of the following tips.
- Incorporate various activities that make physical activity more enjoyable and reduce the risk of injury.
- Lots of activities are better than no activities, for example, mowing the lawn, carrying groceries, walking, or household chores.
- Start small and work your way up to different levels of activities, such as short walks to longer walks, chair exercises, and climbing stairs.
- If it is too hot, cold, or wet outside, do some indoor activities or try mall walking. Look for online fitness programs that can be done at home.
Senior Friendly Workouts
With the right physical activity, seniors can stay independent, physically healthy, and mentally healthy. Some of the following are senior-friendly workouts.
- Walking by yourself, with friends or family, is a simple way to stay mobile and active.
- Dancing, whether you are a seasoned dancer or a beginner, can be a fun way to stay active with others.
- Swimming or water aerobics remains one of the best low-resistance ways for seniors to stay fit.
- Jogging or power walking can be an excellent cardiovascular workout, depending on your current fitness level.
- Cycling remains a great way to get around cities in the summer months, and it is a good workout in the process.
- Calisthenics, Tai Chi, and yoga are excellent ways to maintain strong muscles, flexibility, and movement.
- Group fitness classes or personal training is a great way to stay active with other people.
Physical Activity Resources for Seniors
The National Council of Aging provides a list of physical activity programs that are supported by a variety of federal funding sources. Many of these resources can be easily implemented into daily life.