One of the best ways you can protect your health and independence as you age is by staying active. According to an article by the American Medical Association, research shows that regular movement, such as walking, swimming, or chair-based exercise, can help reduce the risk of chronic conditions, preserve mobility, and improve mood.
It’s recommended that individuals get 150 minutes of moderate activity a week. That may seem like a lot, but it can easily be accomplished with five 30-minute sessions of brisk walking.
Beyond aerobic exercises, it is important for seniors to also incorporate weightlifting and other strength workouts. Strength training helps to support maintaining your muscle mass and bone density.
Because the risk of falls increases exponentially with every decade of life, seniors should include stretching, yoga and balance as part of their exercise routine. The article notes that there is evidence that “if an older adult takes part in Tai chi on a regular basis, it actually reduces the risk of falls.”
If mobility issues prevent you from participating in traditional exercise programs, doctors say chair workouts are a great alternative. They can help with strength and flexibility.
Doctors also recommend including stretching exercises in your workout routine. It helps with flexibility, range of motion, and balance. The flexibility gained from stretching exercises can protect seniors from injury.
No matter what physical activity you do, listen to your body. If something doesn’t feel right, your body is going to give you signs. Doctors warn: don’t push through; stop and get it checked out.
And remember, you should always consult with your physician before starting any physical activity program. This is particularly important for people with heart or lung disease, arthritis, or other joint issues.
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.
