Staying physically active is important for people of all ages and fitness levels. The benefits that come with exercise are endless—as we get older, these benefits only continue to grow. While the body ages, it also becomes more susceptible to a range of health issues. By adopting an exercise routine, you can help to curb your risk of developing health problems such as heart disease, type two diabetes and stroke.
Here at Active One, we regularly assist many of our older clients to live more active and healthy lifestyles. To help you better understand the importance of exercise for seniors, we’ve put together a helpful guide below that also includes a few over 50s fitness ideas.
Benefits of physical activity for over 50s
As we mentioned previously, exercise for seniors can help when it comes to lowering your risk of developing or managing a range of health conditions. Along with reducing the risk of coronary heart disease, arthritis and even some forms of cancer, physical activity can also assist when it comes to reducing the risk of depression, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Developing a regular exercise routine is also beneficial for mental health as it helps to improve your mood, relieve stress and increase self-esteem.
Over 50s fitness ideas
It’s important to increase your movement in any way you can. This might simply include going for regular walks, gardening or taking the stairs instead of the lift. As we age, it is also essential to work on improving our strength, flexibility and balance where possible. Some good forms of exercise for seniors to try include:
· Resistance training using dumbbells, therabands or bodyweight
· A stretching or yoga program
· Posture improvement exercises
· Pilates
· Aqua aerobics or hydrotherapy
· Dancing
Exercise for seniors: where do I start?
Start by making small changes wherever possible. If you are new to exercising, you should gradually work your way up to more vigorous activities. It’s important to set realistic goals and chose an over 50s fitness option that you genuinely enjoy so that you stay motivated. Start small by adding in exercise to your everyday activities—this could include doing some light stretches while watching television or going for a short walk around your neighbourhood. Before making any drastic changes to your physical activity regime, you should always visit your GP for professional advice.
How Active One can help
Here at Active One, we help many clients who either have an existing chronic illness or who are at risk of developing one. Our exercise physiologists also prescribe a range of clinical exercise programs to suit specific needs and we offer group fitness classes which are ideal for all ages and abilities.
For more information on exercise for seniors or to book a consultation with the Active One Group, be sure to get in touch with our helpful Melbourne-based team today on 03 8707 0830.