You know that exercising is one of the keys to healthy aging. But did you know that inactivity in seniors claims over three million lives around the world every year?
Becoming a couch potato in old age is easy. It’s easier to watch TV or stay in and read if you’re suffering from age-related aches and pains.
It might be a little difficult to get up and get active as we age, but there are so many benefits to doing so. Check out these strength exercises for seniors that will help keep you limber and improve your quality of life!
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Warm Up and Cool Down
Loosening up before exercising and walking it out afterward help your body adjust to your new workout routine. Take five minutes before you hit the mat to walk around.
After your workout, relax with some easy yoga or walk at a relaxing pace for a few minutes. As always, consult a doctor before you try anything strenuous.
Stretch Your Neck
This one is so simple but easy to forget. The best thing is you can do it anywhere!
Sit upright. Slowly and gently lean your head side to side, moving your neck in circles.
Take the stretch further by tilting your head to one side and placing your hand at the top of the head. You’ll feel the stretch deepening without any extra pressure.
Basic Back Stretch
Increase your spinal flexibility with this one easy stretch. Start by standing tall, your hands gently on your hips.
Slowly look upward, bending back every so slightly. Remember: never bounce or force a stretch.
Open the Hips
Tight hips can be caused by sitting for too long, but a chair can also be the solution to your problem. Start by sitting in a chair and crossing your ankle on your knee.
This should be enough for you to feel it working. If you need more, you can gently press down on the crossed leg and knee to deepen the stretch.
Knee Taps
This move can almost count as a full-body workout. You can make it more difficult by adding a medicine ball but clasped hands or even a pillow works just fine.
Start out standing tall with your hands (or medicine ball, or pillow) held straight above you. While you bring your hands down, raise one knee up to tap it.
Use this move to improve balance, coordination, and strength.
Other Activities for Seniors
Stretches aren’t the only options for those looking to stay fit. There are plenty of exercise classes for seniors or programs for seniors at home helped by non medical home care consultants.
Here’s a list of physiotherapy for the elderly that are easier on older joints but still get the blood pumping:
- Tai chi
- Swimming
- Walking
- Yoga
- Bodyweight exercises
- Dancing
Try any and all of these until you find something you love!
Strength Exercises for Seniors and More
It’s never too late to start and you’ll never get fitter if you don’t exercise. If you enjoyed these strength exercises for seniors, we have tons of more great information to help keep you fit.
Check out our health blog for all of the latest fitness and wellness news you need to get healthy!
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