Exercises for Seniors: What to Try?

Hello everyone. Today’s article is a guest post from Karien Jones who writes for DIY Health.

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Exercises can contribute to health and well being when done on a regular basis. When it comes to the elderly, exercise can bring several benefits like reducing the risk of falls, improvement in the cardiovascular health, functional independence, psychological enhancement and much more.

Exercise can contribute significantly in driving your metabolism, boosting immunity, and being energetic. It is important to have a slow pace, considering the ageing body and reduced stamina. Start slowly and progress gradually. Enthusiasm is important but you should know your limitations.

You can begin by recording your activities during a time frame, tracking how much time you are inactive or active. Analyze how many hours you have been physically active (or inactive) in a day. Then try to include some short sessions of brisk walking into your day.  You will then be able to gradually build up and include alternate exercises into your routine such as those listed below.

Exercises

Tai Chi: You can try this exercise if you have not been exercising for a long time. Tai Chi has slow and regulated movements. It can be particularly beneficial when you want to get back into a fitness regime but do not want to be too harsh on your body.

Pilates: Pilates can give you better flexibility, balance and co-ordination. It also builds the connection between your mind and your muscles.  There are many variations of pilates to suit your needs.

Walk: Walking is a very gentle exercise. It has many benefits, besides being an excuse to share your day with your best friend. A low impact walk can be done every day or three times a week.

Golfing: Another way to keep your body engaged is golfing. It can be both fun and a good workout. When golfing, it is important to do a few stretches of your calves, hips, and upper body to avoid injury.

Gym: Many gyms have workout classes that are specifically designed for seniors. This makes working out at the gym a great way to meet other seniors who enjoy their exercise.

Yoga: Yoga has many forms. It can be easily done from the comfort of your home or in a class. Yoga can give you better flexibility, balance, and strength. When you are getting started avoid doing the complex postures. Try the easier and simpler ones instead and then build up to the more complex movements.

Weight Training: Lifting weights can be very beneficial for seniors.  It can enhance muscle mass, build bone density and increase your strength.

Swimming: Swimming is an excellent way to improve flexibility and endurance. It is a low impact exercise that has many benefits.  Not only does it reduce stress on your bones and joints but it also improves your cardiovascular fitness.  Just 20-30 minutes of swimming can give you a good workout.

Considerations

An exercise regime for the elderly needs to be different to a regime followed by young people.  Before starting an exercise program make sure you speak to a medical professional and choose a program that allows you to achieve specific goals (e.g. losing weight, improving flexibility).  Start off slowly and increase the intensity of your program as your fitness improves.

Secondly, make sure you choose activities you enjoy.  This will help you stay motivated and keep your enthusiasm high.

Finally, pay attention to your body.  If you feel dizziness or pain, stop exercising immediately and get some assistance.

About the Author:
Karien is a blogger by profession. She loves writing on topics related to luxury and health. Beside this she is fond of automobiles. These days she is busy in writing an article on child development for her blog parentingclan.

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