It seems as though seniors get the short end of the stick. They finally get their lives back after dedicating them to raising families. They’re so much better-traveled and knowledgeable, and they’re ready to get out and do the activities they’ve put on hold for far too long. However, their bodies don’t bounce back quite as quickly as they used to, and maintaining muscle tone and strength is more challenging than ever.
There’s no need to feel down about this—with a few tips for strengthening muscles in seniors, you’ll surely be on your way to living your best life!
Body Weight Exercises
A great first step in increasing strength in the body is to use body weight exercises. These could be squats, push-ups, lunges, step-ups, sit-ups, or crunches. Be sure to do only what you have the balance for. If you’re unstable, then you may need to work up to standing exercises. For step-ups, holding a nearby railing will help with balance and stability.
Stabilization
Regarding stability, core strength is critical. Consider doing chair exercises to develop better strength in all your muscle groups. These may not seem like they could do much for you, but the key to becoming stronger is repetition and proper form. You may also lean against a wall to balance yourself during your exercises. Know your abilities before venturing too far into new activities.
Equine Therapy
Many people don’t know how beneficial equine or horse therapy can be. Equine therapy activates dozens of muscles in your body simultaneously. If you don’t have access to a live horse, consider using supportive machinery that can provide the walking gait of a horse. This will allow you to develop balance, hip flexibility, core strength, and better coordination without even noticing it.
Your new phase of life is just beginning. Don’t let yourself feel weaker than you must. By implementing a few simple tips for strengthening muscles in seniors, you’ll find yourself with newfound freedom. If at any time you have questions or concerns, consult a physician for healthy and helpful dialogue on what to do. Additionally, it may be best to exercise under the supervision of someone who can assist you when you begin your strengthening journey.
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