A common misconception that most people carry with them is that older people cannot get fit; the way one works out and maintains their body during the early stages of life remains with them throughout the final stretch. But, that is far from the truth.
Common Blocks To Exercises For Older People
One of the most common reasons for the decline in physical activity for older adults is health issues. Many suffer from serious problems, such as chronic joint aches, arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, accidental injuries, and more, making it difficult for them to move around. Reduced mobility, bone strength, and muscle coordination also factor into decreased physical activity.
Additionally, the sport and fitness industry is heavily targeted to the youth and professionals, often leaving the elderly with minimal choices.
While getting fit as an older individual isn’t easy, it is possible. There are simple and easy ways they can exercise to get fit. Here are our top five picks.
1. Walking
One of the easiest ways to get fitter is to get moving. Walking is the best choice, as it takes no equipment and little effort. If you suffer from an injury, aches, or chronic issues, you can start with a slow-paced walk for a short distance and slowly make progress. If need be, one can also use walkers, walking sticks, or any other form of aid to get their daily dose of exercise.
2. Swimming
Swimming is a great way to exercise, especially if you suffer from physical problems and ailments. This activity soothes your body and takes a considerable amount of effort at the same time. It enhances muscle coordination and exercises the joints and the muscles without putting any access weight or strain on the body.
3. Cycling
It’s time you dust off that old bike in your garage and take it out for a spin! You could start off with a small cycling route and move on to cycling for longer distances as you get into the habit. Ensure to check your cycle to get the pedalling chain fixed, make sure the breaks work well, oil the pedals, and get a comfortable seat. Once you’ve done ensuring your bike is safe, you can hit the road.
If you wish to get into cycling but find it difficult, you could invest in electric cycles. They are chargeable and easier to ride than traditional cycles as you require to put less effort into getting them to move. It is suited for uphill rides, rocky terrain, or uneven roads as well.
4. Low-Impact Exercises
Sometimes all you need are easy, low-impact exercises to get into shape, as you get older. You can start with stretching and move to targeted exercises and lifting light weights.
There are tons of tutorials, workout videos, and blogs that contain lots of content, exercise, and diet plans specifically designed for the elderly, that you can find fruitful. You can find an exercise plan that fits your schedule and caters to your requirements, and consult your doctor for an expert opinion. Yoga and tai chi are also amazing ways to get fit, mentally and physically strong, and more balanced, regardless of age.
5. Exercise DVDs
They were iconic then; they are iconic now. There are numerous exercise DVDs for seniors available in the market today, and they make working out easy, fun, and effective in the most engaging way possible. Even better would be to bring over some of your friends and try these fun exercise DVDs together as an activity!
Working out is usually the last thing on one’s mind as one gets older. But engaging in physical activity regularly, regardless of age, can help prevent injuries, accelerate healing, keep you mentally and physically healthy and happy.