Seniors Fitness Ideas

Seniors Fitness Ideas

Staying active even as you age is very important. There are a number of benefits to seniors fitness. While some seniors worry that physical exercise will be too difficult or potentially cause harm, the opposite is actually true. Seniors fitness programs are an excellent idea for just about everyone, regardless of your age. Exercise and physical activity are among the healthiest activities that you can take part in.

Research shows that regular exercise can help you maintain or restore strength, flexibility, balance and endurance. It also helps maintain a healthy weight and reduce the impact of illness and disease.

The good news is that seniors fitness doesn’t require complicated routines or even trips to the gym. Here are a few ideas for seniors fitness.

Seniors Fitness Activities

Even if you haven’t exercised regularly in the past, it doesn’t mean that you can’t start now! Remember though, if you have any illnesses, injuries or medical conditions, check with your doctor to get clearance before starting a seniors fitness routine.

Seniors fitness doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, there are a number of simple activities that you can do. These don’t require visiting a gym, using fancy equipment or remembering complicated routines. Examples of simple seniors fitness activities include:

• Walking
• Swimming
• Cycling
• Yoga
• Tai chi
• Golf
• And many other exercises

Even weightlifting doesn’t need to be difficult. Start with a pair of small dumbbells and do a series of exercises that work different muscle groups. If you don’t have dumbbells, you can even use household items such as canned goods! If lifting weights is too difficult for you, you can start off by performing the same motions without weights.

Even household chores can be a part of your exercise routine. Tasks such as gardening can easily be adapted to provide you with additional exercise.

As with all exercise routines, make sure that you wear proper clothing during your seniors fitness activities. This includes clothing that allows you to move easily and shoes that are comfortable and provide support. It’s also important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

If, at any time, you experience dizziness, chest pains or have difficultly talking or breathing, take a break.  You may also wish to discuss these issues with your health care provider.