We all know that exercise is important for both physical and mental health. While it is important for older people to consult with medical professionals for clearance before starting out a new exercise program, there are several types of exercise that are considered generally safe for seniors.
Walking. There are so many reasons that walking has long been a favorite exercise activity for seniors. It can be done almost anywhere and by almost anybody. You can walk at your own speed and can start out walking for short periods of time, gradually increasing as you build endurance and body strength. In fact, even people with limited mobility may be able to walk with a walker or cane.
Strength Training. Many seniors associate exercise with cardio, but strength training may be more time-effective than other types of exercise for seniors. That is because we all lose muscle mass as we age and strength training, which focuses on building muscle mass, can help slow down the clock. Strength training can be done with weights, with body weight, or with resistance bands. Start out easy with chair squats or wall push ups for safety.
Yoga. Flexibility and core strength tend to decline with age, which can increase the risk of accidental injuries. Yoga focuses on strengthening the core and increasing flexibility, but is also a low-impact exercise that should be gentle on joints. Yoga has even been linked to improvements in tendon and joint diseases.
Swimming. If you have access to a pool, swimming is a great exercise. Water increases resistance, which can make exercise more effective, but also reduces the impact on joints, making it a great place for people of all ages to exercise. Whether you are swimming laps, doing water aerobics, or simply walking in the pool, a water workout is a great way to improve your health.
