As we are all aware, exercise keeps us physically fit so that we can live a better life. No matter what age you are, it is important to perform exercises in order to maintain your good health. Elderly should know that retirement should not be an excuse to not exercise as this will ensure you are in a healthy condition. It is vital to ensure that the exercises suit the elderly as not all exercises are healthy for elderly adults to perform. Here is a list of exercises that suits the elderly:
1. Brisk walking
Brisk walking is considered to be a less intense type of exercise compared to jogging. But then, it is still very beneficial as it would make your heart rate increase and improve your muscle work. Not to forget, brisk walk has its own advantages rather than jogging as it exerts less impact on your joints. Those who have weak knees or ankles, brisk walking would be a good exercise for you to begin with. While brisk walking might not sound like a to go activity, there are actually techniques to master this exercise. Unlike normal walking, brisk walking improves your switching legs speed as well as increasing your stride by swinging your hips slightly every step you take. Aldo, by doing this, you can maintain a good body posture.
2. Stationary Cycling
Stationary bicycles can actually be found easily at most gyms and even at community centers. Stationary cycling is a great activity to be done as a form of aerobic exercise and it does not give any impact to your joints. Hence, this would not lead to any bad injury.
3. Swimming
Swimming is known to be a great form of aerobic exercise as you would not be putting that much stress on your joint since your body weight is supported by the water. Hence this makes swimming a good exercise especially for those who are suffering from arthritis and osteoporosis. Also, with swimming you could strengthen yourself through training. Adding to that, if you do not know how to swim, you can still benefit from doing activities in the pool. As an example, you could use a swimming board and just paddle your legs in order to train your core and leg muscles. Other than that, you can also join an aqua aerobic class which you will be involving in water exercises with a group.
- Squats
Squats are considered to be an easy and effective way to get your daily dose of balance exercise. From this exercise, you would not be needing any equipment and only use your body weight. This exercise can sometimes be done in a wrong way. Hence, it is important to monitor how you perform it.
- Tai Chi
Tai chi is known to be the best exercise that benefits both balance and flexibility. Tai chi is normally conducted in groups which makes it a great activity to be done in groups. Not to forget, Tai chi is known for its mindful exercise which helps with relaxation and focus. Hence, it is really beneficial for elderly’s mental health.
- Yoga
Now, yoga is considered to be more structured for a stretching exercise and it helps with muscle development. Through yoga, you would not stress a lot on your joints as it is good for it. In addition, Yoga can be great to train your mental discipline and focus.
In conclusion, no matter your age or physical condition, it is never too late to start exercising and get fit. To maintain a better life, it is crucial to perform healthy activities.