A new study shows that just four minutes of daily strengthening exercise can dramatically increase the quality of life for aging adults. According to an article by News Medical Life Sciences, researchers at Penn State College of Medicine found that with just a few minutes a day, strength significantly improved. This is important because one’s strength impacts fall risk, longevity, independent living and more.
Study participants performed four exercises: push-ups, chair stands, two-arm rows, and stair stepping. They did each movement for 30 seconds, followed by a 30-second rest. As participants improved, they were encouraged to progress to higher levels of difficulty.
Researchers said the exercises mimic movements required in everyday activities, such as standing up from a chair or climbing stairs, “making them useful predictors of potential risks and future need for care.”
Another benefit of a short workout is that there is a higher chance that people will stick to the exercise routine. Participants completed their exercises 81% of the time during the test.
Researchers believe these findings show that resistance training regimens do not have to be long to make a big difference in strength, mobility, and quality of life.
To learn more about senior exercise and wellness, look through some of our other articles on Council of Seniors 365.
And be sure to stop by CouncilofSeniors.com to learn how we’re working to improve the financial well-being of America’s retirees.
