Getting older doesn’t mean you have to slow down. While being active during your younger years can stave off some of the signs of aging, you might find as you get older that certain exercises start to hurt more than they help.
Whether you’re nursing an injury or looking to add some gentler exercises into your workout regimen, these low-impact activities will keep you get fit regardless of your current age:
- Tai chi. This low impact form of martial arts is made up of slow, graceful movements and is great for those who used to enjoy karate or other high-impact martial arts. During a typical practice you’ll focus on connecting your breathing to your movements. One of tai chi’s top benefits is improved balance, which is especially important to prevent falls as you age.
- Yoga. Yoga is a fantastic workout for those looking to supplement their weight lifting regimen or swap it out entirely. Yoga can be as gentle or as challenging as you want it to be, which makes it suited for all fitness levels. Through yoga you’ll improve your strength, flexibility and balance while promoting focus and relaxation at the same time.
- Walking. It seems simple enough, but walking is one of the best forms of exercise out there for senior citizens. Regular walking can improve cardiovascular health and aid in weight loss. Walking is easy to take up because all you need to do is put on a pair of shoes and step out the door. It can also be a great social activity, allowing you to explore your neighborhood and say hello to your neighbors and dogs out walking along the way.
You don’t need to take up marathon running or other intense exercises to stay fit as you age, but it is also important to remember to keep your physical limits in mind and to make sure your loved one has supervision, if needed. If you or your loved one is looking for assistance or for a companion to get moving with, please contact our team. We look forward to speaking with you!
