Graceful Aging Exercises for Everyone
It’s
never too late to get started with an exercise routine, and even a small amount
of activity can help you to improve the way you feel. Staying active will allow
your joints to stay mobile and if you include resistance exercises as part of
your plan, you can retain muscular control and stability as you age.
Everyone,
regardless of their current age, can benefit from exercise. Reaping the rewards
and health benefits of exercise doesn’t have to involve strenuous workouts or
trips to the gym. It’s about adding more movement and activity to your life,
even in small ways.
There
are many easy ways to get your body moving and improve your health and outlook.
However, older adults that have been inactive for a while should consider the
following before getting started.
Get Medical Clearance
Consult
your doctor before starting an exercise program, especially if you have a
preexisting health condition. Your doctor can let you know if there are any
activities you should avoid.
Consider Your Current Health Status
Keep
in mind how your ongoing health problems may affect your workouts. For example,
diabetics may need to adjust the timing of medication and meal plans when
setting an exercise schedule.
Progress Slowly
If
you haven’t been active in a while, don’t do too much too soon. Instead, build
up your exercise program little by little. Try working out in increments of 10
minutes, two to three times a day.
Listen to Your Body
Exercise
and activity should be at least somewhat enjoyable and pain free. If something
feels wrong, such as a sharp pain or unusual shortness of breath, stop
exercising and inform your doctor so that you can try another activity that’s
more comfortable or suitable. You may be able to avoid a lot of the discomfort
associated with starting a new exercise routine by ensuring that you warm up
prior to exercising and cool down with stretches afterwards.
Get started today
with some exercise basics
Walk More
Walking
to enhance your cardiovascular fitness level is a simple activity to get
started with. Aim to be active for 30 minutes at least five days a week.
Understand, however, that walking alone is not sufficient, so consider adding
an element of resistance-based movements to your plan on 2 to 3 of your
exercise days.
Get Stronger
Strength
training helps prevent loss of bone mass, builds muscle and improves balance.
Staying strong may also help you avoid falls that are caused by a lack of
muscular strength. Ensuring that you do some form of resistance-based activity
each week may allow you to perform your daily activities, such as shopping,
cooking and cleaning, with greater ease.
Be Flexible
Performing
daily stretches can help you to become more limber and increase your range of
movement. Stretches that are static or involve movement can be done standing.
If your current mobility and stability is not ready for this challenge, you can
stretch while sitting in a chair or lying down.
With
these graceful aging exercises, you can improve your quality of life and make a
commitment to getting healthy and active today.
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