Exercise and nutrition are important throughout every aspect of your life. As you get older, it needs to become more frequent in your daily routine. You’re only as old as you feel, and properly taking care of your body, mind, and spirit will have you feeling 20 years younger. Keep reading to learn about the best exercises for senior citizens to try out safely.
Walking
Stairs may be a young man’s game, but walking isn’t. Walking is one of the best cardiovascular exercises for seniors because it requires little effort but still has the same effects on the body as jogging or hiking. You won’t need to overextend yourself to see promising results and improve your health.
A walk around the neighborhood for 30 minutes a day is more than enough exercise. Walking is one of the least stressful and accessible forms of exercise. Plus, it can lower your risk of developing heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and colon cancer. But please remember to always listen to your body and never overwork your joints and hurt yourself. When it’s time to go in, it’s time to go in.
Water Aerobics
Seniors love a good water aerobics class. Exercising in the water is better for those who have arthritis and other forms of joint pain because the water puts less stress on the joints.
No need to show off your body-building skills with water aerobics. Lifting weights in the water naturally brings resistance, so even five pounds is more than enough pressure for your joints. Water aerobics will improve your strength, flexibility, mobility, and balance. So find a pool and sign up for the next class.
Biking
Biking does wonders for the body. Make sure you do this activity with some nice scenery around. You might as well enjoy the view while getting a good workout in. Cycling requires the use of larger muscles, which leads to increased blood flow and demand on the heart and lungs.
Additionally, you will work out your hamstrings and quadriceps. Try to stick with safe routes and smooth surfaces. Find a path specifically paved and designed for bikers. If the path has a decline, make sure you know the dangers of cycling downhill and the preventative options.
Tai Chi
Tai chi is a safe and cool exercise for seniors to try, especially those with chronic conditions. Tai chi improves your balance and your body’s awareness of itself in space, reducing the risk of falling. It also improves your strength, flexibility, and aerobic conditioning.
Tai chi improves cardiovascular fitness, lowers blood pressure, and helps with arthritis. Aside from the physical benefits, it’s great for the mind and spirit. It will lower stress and center individuals in chaotic situations.
Don’t let age stop you from being active. Stay fit and in good health with these safe senior citizen exercises.
