The Best Exercises for Seniors

Exercise is a vital part of a healthy lifestyle at any age, but it is especially important as we get older. Eating well and getting plenty of exercise can help individuals live longer and more independently than their sedentary peers, as well as provide many other benefits.

But what types of exercises are best for seniors? How much activity should individuals strive for per week? Read on to learn more.

What are the benefits of exercise for seniors?

First, it is helpful to understand why regular exercise is so important for older individuals. Some of the many benefits include:

• More energy
• Improved cognitive function
• Improved muscle strength and tone, as well as bone density
• Better balance
• Prevents disease

You may be familiar with the colloquialism “the best defense is a good offense.” This is true for more than just sports - it is much easier to maintain healthy habits than to wait until something happens and then try to repair the damage. This is why there is no better time than today to establish a new exercise routine.

What are the best exercises for seniors?

Now that you know some of the benefits of establishing an exercise routine, you may be wondering: what are the best exercises for seniors?

Of course, there is no one type of exercise that is best for everyone. Generally speaking we recommend a mix of aerobic, strength, balance and flexibility exercises. You’ll also want to make sure that whatever activities you choose are ones that you will enjoy. You’ll be more likely to stick to a regular exercise routine if you’re doing an activity that you find fun, rather than a chore.

Here are a few suggestions on exercises that may work well for seniors:

• Walking - Walking is a great exercise because it is easy to adjust the speed and distance walked to match your needs. Getting a group together for a brisk walk is a fun way to socialize while getting your exercise in!
  
  
• Biking - If you’re looking for a no-impact exercise, biking is a great solution! You can bike outside during the warmer months or ride a stationary bike year-round for an excellent form of cardio.
  
  
• Water aerobics - Exercising in the water offers all the benefits of exercising on dry land, but water also eases stress on aching bones and joints. Check out local fitness centers for water aerobics classes, typically offered in the shallow end of public pools.
  
  
• Group classes - Speaking of your local fitness center, many gyms offer a variety of group classes perfect for seniors. Classes range from aerobic dance to strength training and everything in between. Register for a bunch and see which is your favorite!
  
  
• Yoga - This is an exercise that is great if your fitness goals are to improve your balance or flexibility. In addition to being a great form of exercise, yoga can be wonderful for your mental health as well.

Before beginning any new exercise routine we highly recommend consulting with your doctor about what would be best for your specific situation.