Everyone knows that leading an active lifestyle with regular physical exercise is important. However, while it is easy to tell someone to do this, it can be really hard to do. Especially for older adults who are coping with underlying health conditions or mobility problems due to physical deterioration, restarting physical activity can seem like a daunting or even impossible task.
Our team here at GreenTree At Westwood has helped the residents in our senior living community with many of the same issues. This is why we have compiled a list of the best exercises for older adults.
Tai Chi
Tai chi is a type of exercise with flowing movements that incorporates deep breathing and relaxation techniques. This type of exercise is perfect for older adults at all levels of physical fitness. In fact, many of the different movements can be easily adapted even for people with disabilities or who are wheelchair-bound. The exercise itself has slow movements that are easy on the muscles and joints, making it perfect for older adults.
Yoga
Yoga is another example of a highly customizable exercise that comes with forms at different speeds and for different levels of fitness. In particular, restorative yoga and chair yoga are great introductory physical exercises for older adults. Not only will they help with stretching out different muscles, but yoga can also help with improving overall balance and flexibility.
Water Aerobics
Moving around on land is not an easy task for everyone. However, due to water’s buoyancy, it can reduce the amount of effort that is required for movement as well as lighten any pressure that is exerted on the joints. On top of this, there are many different types of water aerobics to try out on top of regular swimming strokes.
Indoor Cycling
Indoor cycling is a rising fitness trend that people of all ages have been starting to adopt. It is a time-efficient and convenient alternative to outdoor cycling which is heavily dependent on weather conditions. On top of this, many indoor cycling instructors have started incorporating arm and body movements that can help to make indoor cycling an immersive full-body workout.
Taking a Walk
At the end of the day, physical activity does not have to be difficult. Sometimes it can be as simple as slipping on a comfortable pair of shoes and taking a stroll around your neighborhood or in the nearest park. Taking a short stroll not only ensures that you are physically moving, but it is also a great way to get some fresh air and soak in a bit of sunlight.
Enjoy Engaging Fitness Programs at GreenTree At Westwood
One of the most important issues when it comes to physical exercise is ensuring that older adults get the support and guidance they need when they get started. In fact, older adults must consult their healthcare providers before they get started for a physical examination so that they are better aware of their physical limitations when conducting the exercise.
To ensure that our residents have the best opportunities for physical exercise, we offer Dimensions Health and Fitness where there are programs for all the important facets of wellbeing in life. For more information on what this entails or about our senior living options, contact us today.
