Exercise is a quintessential element of our day-to-day lives, especially so for aging adults. Studies have shown that taking part in regular exercise can help your aging loved one live a healthier and longer life. Here is the complete guide to exercises for active seniors.
Benefits of Exercise
There are many benefits that regular exercise can bring about for older adults, including building strength in the muscles most commonly utilized. The enhanced strength can result in improved balance, which ultimately lowers the likelihood of falls. Even in the event of a fall, the body can withstand injuries better with increased strength. It can also improve one’s mood and fight against feelings of depression or anxiousness. It can also improve your cognitive function.
Frequent exercise also prevents the onset of diseases such as osteoporosis, heart disease, and diabetes. In fact, many of these conditions can be improved by exercising. It is best to consult a doctor if you or your loved one is physically inactive or unsure if exercise is safe enough. Exercising also increases your energy level, helping you get more things done.
Road to Improving Well-being
In total, there are four types of exercise. They are endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility. And it’s essential to incorporate all of them into the routine. First, endurance increases breathing and heart rate. It also helps to provide energy while improving the health of your lungs, heart, and circulatory system. You can build endurance by engaging in activities like jogging, dancing, walking, tennis, and biking.
Strength exercises can build stronger muscles by doing bodyweight exercises, lifting weights, and using a resistance band. Improving balance can help mitigate falls and lower the risk of accidents. Such exercises include walking heel-to-toe and standing on one foot. Lastly, enhancing flexibility by doing yoga or stretching can allow you to be more limber and move easily.
Frequency of Exercise
It’s recommended for adults over 65 years to minimally have 150 minutes of aerobic exercise with moderate intensity weekly. On average, it should be about 30 minutes each day. Either that or you or your loved one can also do 75 minutes of vigorous exercise or with high intensity every week. Additionally, do try to incorporate strength training exercises for at least two days every week to improve balance and flexibility. You can work on your balance and flexibility every day.
Warming Up And Cooling Down Before And After Exercise
You should warm-up for at least five minutes before exercising. This can be done by walking slowly and doing some stretches. After an exercise, especially a vigorous one, cool down by doing stretching exercises. It’s necessary to cool down for longer in warmer weather conditions.
Live Actively And Independently at Conservatory At Plano (CAP)
If you or your loved one want an affordable and active lifestyle, our senior independent living community is an ideal solution! At Conservatory At Plano, our Dimensions Health & Fitness programs have daily activities and events designed to physically and mentally stimulate our residents.
Reach out to us to find out more about our programs.
