May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, which means that people of all ages across the country are taking time to make sure they stay active. For seniors, this month can be a great opportunity to learn new physical activities, which they can take part in to help build healthy habits and a physically active lifestyle. Let’s take a look at some of the best low-impact exercises for seniors, which can help us stay healthy without risking injury.
Paced Walking
Walking is an obvious exercise solution for seniors everywhere, and for good reason. Starting your day off with a quick walk is a great way to get your blood moving and improve your cardiovascular endurance, all without overexerting yourself. Try going for brief walks either by yourself or with friends, and try to walk at a slightly faster pace. Pushing yourself to walk just a bit faster than normal can help seniors maintain an active lifestyle and challenge themselves without overdoing it. Remember to take breaks as needed, and drink plenty of water!
Swimming
Speaking of water, getting your exercise done in the pool is another great way to be active without putting too much stress on your joints. Seniors can take part in aerobic activity classes in pools, or just go for a swim in order to stay active. Swimming is one of the most effective ways for senior adults to burn calories and have fun being active because of how the water distributes their weight. The “zero-gravity” effect of the water helps make load bearing easier for joints, especially knees, which are commonly injured during other exercises.
Balance Exercises
Another great way for seniors to stay active is to practice daily balance exercises. Some examples of common balance exercises for senior adults include walking heel-to-toe, single-leg balance, and toe stands. The CDC recommends that seniors practice their balance regularly with exercises like these, which can help them prevent falls and other injuries.
Full Body Stretching
Stretching is a crucial, yet oft neglected aspect of exercise for all ages. Seniors and youth alike both need to practice stretching before exercising in order to prevent injury. Stretching on its own can also be a simple and effective way of staying active. Studies actually show that stretching before bed every night can help you fall asleep faster and prevent sleep-related pain, which can be especially common for senior adults. Try stretching your limbs, neck, back and chest both before exercising and before going to bed.
Why Exercise is Important for Seniors
The benefits of regular exercise for seniors are far and wide, so National Physical Fitness and Sports Month is a great time to start building healthy lifestyle habits as we head into the summer. Some specific benefits of regular exercise for seniors are improved strength, balance, energy levels, mood, as well as a reduced risk of heart disease.
Keeping a healthy and active lifestyle is one of the key steps to lowering risk of illnesses and improving quality of life. If you are a member of a Cavalier Senior Living community, we offer daily social events to keep you active, as well as an activity room for organized exercise classes or to exercise your own way, on your own schedule.
To learn more about the benefits of assisted living from Cavalier Senior Living, click here. To schedule a tour of one of our Alabama assisted living communities, click here, or give us a call today!
