8 Ways to Keep Fit for the Elderly

When we get older, it becomes more difficult to keep in shape. However, the easiest way to do so is by always maintaining a good exercise routine. Exercise doesn’t have to be complicated or overly time-consuming.

In fact, even just 30 minutes a day, a few days a week can have a hugely positive impact on your body and mental health! We have here the best 8 ways to keep fit for the elderly to ensure you always have something to keep you active.

1. Walking

Walking is easily one of the best forms of exercise in the world. What’s wonderful about walking is that you can truly go at your own pace. Slow and steady walking still offers an array of benefits such as strengthened lungs and circulatory system, while speed walking offer muscle toning, and help improving body composition, among many other things.

If you’re able to walk safely outside with someone else, that’s great. However, we recommend doing it from the comfort of your own home. That way, you never have to worry about the weather conditions being right, too.

Try out a home treadmill specially made with seniors in mind. These are easier on the knees and come with an array of safety features such as handrails to ensure the best user experience possible.

2. Cycling

Cycling is another one of those forms of exercise that you can do either indoors or outdoors! However, many of us do not feel confident or safe enough cycling outside. Not to mention, most of us don’t live in places where we can cycle uninterruptedly or away from traffic.

The solution?

If you already have an outdoor bike that you feel comfortable on, then you can get a bike trainer! They allow you to ride your bike in place, which can offer a great workout! If your core isn’t strong enough, you suffer from back pain/injury, or you don’t have the best balance, then there’s another excellent alternative: senior specific recumbent bikes. These come with comfortable seats with backs you can rest on. Some even come with moving handlebars so you can work out both your upper and lower body!

3. Swimming

Basic swimming is an incredible form of exercise and is actually known as one of the best forms out there. Alternatively, you can opt into a water aerobics or resistance class as well. Some people do better with instruction or group classes to help them stay motivated and that can be a great way to do it.

Swimming is known for helping relieve back and joint pain while simultaneously improving posture. If you have joint pain or issues, then you can’t get better than swimming. It’s the easiest form of exercise on the joints as you have essentially no impact like you would with, say, running or hiking.

4. Walking the Dog

If you have a dog, then chances are you take them for walks pretty regularly. Even if you have a yard, it’s important to take them new places and walks are the perfect opportunity to do so. If you don’t have a dog, perhaps a family member or neighbor does and would appreciate you going on walks with them. You’ll be able to benefit from fresh air, the happiness of the dog you’re walking, and so much more.

If you don’t have a spot to take them on the walk, play with them outside! Our dogs are always looking for our love and attention.

5. Lifting Weights

You don’t have to lift heavy weights to yield results. Lifting weights comes with a huge set of benefits, some of which include: reduced chance of osteoporosis, lowered risk of diabetes and Alzheimer’s, improved posture, mobility, strength, and more. You may find that it’s easier to open the pickle jar now, or find it easier to get up from your chair after lounging around.

Weighted vests are another fine option for benefiting from resistance exercise without actually lifting dumbbells. You simply put them on and wear them around the house, while walking, or whatever else works for you. Wear them for up to 30 minutes and you’ll definitely start feeling the burn!

6. Yoga

Yoga is an excellent form of mental and physical exercise for just about anyone. It may look easy from a distance, but just one yoga video or class and you’ll realize it’s much more of a challenge. With that being said, it’s great for all physical fitness levels, from absolute beginners to professional athletes.

We recommend purchasing a yoga mat if you don’t have one to provide a soft surface for you to do your poses on. Yoga really allows you to connect your mind and your body, and offer some introspection and quiet time that you may not normally allot for yourself.

7. Resistance Bands

If you’re feeling intimidated by weights, or simply don’t feel like your strength is up to that level, then there’s a great alternative: resistance bands. These bands are excellent if you don’t have a lot of room for workout equipment, as they’re so thin and easy to fold up when not in use. They come in easy-to-see colors as well so you can tell immediately the level of resistance they offer.

8. Dancing

Who doesn’t love dancing? Even if you have 2 left feet, your body will thank you for putting on those Zumba  shoes (or whatever feels comfortable for you). Put on some of your favorite tunes and grab a partner or enjoy it alone.

Summary

Now that you’ve had the opportunity to read the 8 best ways to keep fit for the elderly, which are you going to incorporate into your lifestyle? We hope that this guide was helpful to you. The great thing, is that these are great for all physical fitness levels, so you may even be able to try them all out! Thanks for tuning in, and we’ll see you again shortly!