Physical fitness is essential for adults, as it helps to maintain our physical health and cognitive function. Regular exercise provides a range of benefits, including improved balance, increased flexibility, and reduced risk of chronic diseases. There are so many ways to stay active and incorporate fitness into a daily routine:
According to a report by the AARP, staying active is one of the most important things that seniors can do to maintain their health and well-being. The report suggests that seniors should engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week, in addition to muscle-strengthening exercises two or more days per week. The report also notes engaging in regular exercise limits risks for cognitive decline, which is an important consideration for many adults who want to maintain their independence as they age in the comfort of home.
Another study by the National Institute on Aging (NIA) found that those who engage in regular exercise have a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer. Exercise can help to prevent falls, which are a leading cause of injury and hospitalization among older adults.
There are many ways for seniors retiring from the comfort of home to stay active and engaged in physical fitness, from simple activities like walking or gardening to more intense activities like weightlifting or swimming. The key is to find activities that are enjoyable and sustainable, and to incorporate them into a regular routine.
One popular option for seniors who access in person or online is yoga, which can help to improve flexibility and balance while also providing a range of mental health benefits. According to a recent article in The New York Times, yoga has become increasingly popular among adults, with many instructors tailoring their classes to the needs and abilities of older adults’ mobility and flexibility.
In addition to yoga, strength training is another important component of a well-rounded fitness routine. An article in Healthline notes that strength training can help to improve bone density, increase muscle mass, and reduce the risk of falls at different weight levels. There are many options for strength training, from weightlifting to resistance bands to bodyweight exercises like push-ups and squats. Senior adults can consult with physical fitness experts if they are curious of which activities are best for them.
Walking is another simple and effective way to stay active and engaged in physical fitness. According to a recent article in Harvard Health Publishing, walking can help to improve cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles, and improve balance and coordination. Walking and exploring can be an enjoyable and social activity, and can be easily incorporated into a daily routine.
Finding joy in the things we do is so important and there are many other options for seniors who want to stay active and engaged in physical fitness. From swimming to dancing to tai chi, the key is to find activities that keep us coming back, and are tailored to each individual's needs and abilities.
The importance for seniors to stay safe while engaging in physical activity can't be understated. According to an article in Verywell Health, seniors should always warm up before exercising and stretch after exercising to prevent injury. It's also important to stay hydrated and to listen to the body's signals, taking breaks as needed and not pushing too hard.
Don't forget to prioritize mental health and well-being. According to a recent article in The Washington Post, we can benefit from activities like meditation, mindfulness, and spending time in nature. These activities can help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and provide a sense of calm and relaxation.
The key is to find activities that are enjoyable, sustainable, and tailored to your needs and abilities. Stay safe while engaging in physical activity and don't forget to prioritize health and well-being.
AARP. "The Benefits of Exercise for Older Adults." AARP, 2019. https://www.aarp.org/health/healthy-living/info-2019/benefits-of-exercise-older-adults.html
National Institute on Aging. "Exercise & Physical Activity: Your Everyday Guide from the National Institute on Aging." National Institute on Aging, 2019. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/exercise-physical-activity
New York Times. "Why Yoga Is Good for Seniors." New York Times, 2017. https://www.nytimes.com/2017/06/14/well/move/why-yoga-is-good-for-seniors.html
Healthline. "Strength Training for Seniors: Benefits and Tips to Get Started." Healthline, 2018. https://www.healthline.com/health/strength-training-for-seniors
Harvard Health Publishing. "Walking: Your steps to health." Harvard Health Publishing, 2019. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/walking-your-steps-to-health
Verywell Health. "Exercise Tips for Seniors to Stay Safe and Active." Verywell Health, 2019. https://www.verywellhealth.com/exercise-tips-for-seniors-what-to-know-before-you-start-4142321
The Washington Post. "How Seniors Can Find the Calm of Mindfulness." The Washington Post, 2019. https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/how-seniors-can-find-the-calm-of-mindfulness/2019/06/28/787ca1c8-8d62-11e9-b6f4-033356502dce_story.html