Tips on Choosing the Right Low-Impact Exercise Routines to Keep Senior Adults Fit This Winter
Exercise is an important part of staying healthy, especially as you age. Low-impact exercise routines are a great way for seniors to stay fit this winter while avoiding high-impact activities like running and jumping that can put a strain on the body and increase the risk of injury. Take a look at these strategies that can help with choosing the right low-impact exercise routine for seniors this winter.
1. Choose the Right Intensity
Consider your current fitness level and how much intensity you can handle. If you haven't been active in a while, start slow with low-impact activities like walking or swimming that will help build up strength and endurance over time. It's also important to listen to your body – if something is too challenging or causes pain, ease up on the intensity or switch exercises altogether.
2. Consider Any Physical Limitations
Before starting an exercise routine, you have to evaluate any physical limitations you may have. If you have arthritis or joint pain, low-impact activities like yoga and tai chi can help ease symptoms while building strength. Other concerns include vision impairments or balance issues that may require additional assistance or modifications.
3. Check With Your Physician
A doctor can guide the best exercises for your specific health needs and answer any questions you may have. Additionally, they can help monitor progress and make sure that you are staying safe while exercising.
4. Consider Your Schedule
When starting an exercise routine, it's important to consider your schedule and find a time that works for you. It can be difficult to stick with a routine if it doesn't fit into your daily life. Consider the time of day when you are most likely to stay motivated and try to set aside at least 30 minutes each day, 3 times per week for exercise.
5. Set Realistic Goals
Set realistic goals that you can achieve as you move forward with your workout goals. Start small and build up over time – for example, aim for 10 minutes of activity 3 times per week and then increase as you get more comfortable with the routine. Celebrate each accomplishment along the way!
Popular Low-Impact Exercise Routines for Seniors
Popular low-impact exercise routines for seniors include walking, swimming, yoga, and tai chi. Walking is a great way to get outside and get moving while still staying safe. Swimming is also a great option as it provides resistance without putting strain on the body. Yoga and tai chi are gentle forms of exercise that can help with balance, flexibility, strength, and relaxation.
By following these tips on choosing the right low-impact exercise routine this winter, seniors can stay fit without putting strain on their bodies. Low-impact activities are safe for most people of all ages but always check with your physician before beginning a new routine – especially if you have any pre-existing conditions or physical limitations that could affect how much intensity is safe for you to handle.
Senior Helpers Can Provide Support This Winter
If you're a senior citizen in the Adrian, Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, Jackson, Dexter, or Hillsdale area and are finding it more difficult to get around this winter, Senior Helpers Adrian can offer extra support and assistance. Not only can we help offer the motivation you need to get moving, but we can also provide support services that will allow you to maintain independence in your home. Contact Senior Helpers Adrian today to learn more.