Seniors and Fitness

According to the National Institute on Aging, regular exercise can prevent or delay diabetes, and heart trouble. Committing to a regular exercise routine can also decrease arthritis pain, anxiety, and depression. Best of all, exercise can help you remain independent for a longer period of time. Find an exercise buddy or go solo! Always check with your physician before starting a new exercise routine.

There are several types of exercises that you can engage in. Find and activity that you enjoy, and you will see the many benefits it will bring you.

Endurance Exercise-Endurance activities include walking, swimming, hiking, rowing, tennis, dancing or riding a bike. Rain or shine, invest in a good pair of running shoes, and go for a walk around your neighborhood. If you are up to it, challenge yourself with some hills. As you build more endurance, add more minutes to your walk. You can also pick up your pace if you feel up to it. You can also go for a swim at your local YMCA, and even meet new friends at the pool. Most YMCA’s have exercise classes. Inquire if there are any classes designed for seniors. Bike riding can also be a great way to discover your neighborhood and stay fit. You can also invest in a stationary bike when weather does not permit you to go out. Endurance exercise is one way to stay fit and feel great. The benefits of cardio exercise are great. It gets your heart pumping, decreases your fatigue and shortness of breath. Also, it helps you remain more autonomous with house cleaning, walking, and doing errands. The possibilities are endless.

Strengthening Exercise- Strengthening exercises help you build muscle tissue. To achieve this, you can use weights, machines, or resistance bands. The benefits of this form of exercise are; prevention of loss of bone mass, builds muscle, and improves balance. This form of exercise can also decrease your chances of having a fall. Further, considering you have more strength, opening containers, jars, and getting into a vehicle may be easier. Many more activities of daily living will become easier as you gain more strength. I have only named a few.

Stretching Exercise- Stretching exercises keep your body limber and flexible. The benefits of this form of exercise is keeping your muscles and joints supple. This may mean being less susceptible to injuries. Everyday activities, such as tying your shoes, washing your hair, and soaping your body may be less difficult. Many more activities will be much easier for you. I have provided you with a few examples.

Balance Exercise- The benefits of this type of exercise may reduce your chances of having a fall. Also, it reduces your fears of falling. It also improves your balance, posture, and quality of walking. To achieve balance, try yoga, Tai Chi, and posture exercises. You can contact your local YMCA or fitness centers in your community to find out more about these courses. Most centers have courses designed especially for senior citizens.

There are so many fun ways to stay fit and healthy. I have only named a few. The benefits of exercise are worthwhile and endless.

What form of exercise do you enjoy most? How do you stay fit?

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