Research has shown that regular physical activity improves quality of life for older adults and decreases the risk of cardiovascular disease and many other illnesses and disabilities.
It is a challenge to continue moving and stay active no matter what stage of life we are in. How important is it to you to pick the weeds in your garden or pick up the napkin you just dropped? For many of us, keeping up with those small tasks is enough to push us to exercise in one way or another. In my experience, there is always a way. It`s all about your willingness to accomplish your very own routine that works around your schedule. There are many great ways that we can accomplish being active in our later years. Exercise is perhaps the best-demonstrated way to maintain good health, fitness, and independence. Research has shown that regular physical activity improves quality of life for older adults and decreases the risk of cardiovascular disease and many other illnesses and disabilities. There are four main types of exercise and physical activity to focus on: Endurance, Strength, Balance, and Flexibility. Each activity is different and have their own benefits for doing them each day.
Endurance, or aerobic activities, increase your breathing and heart rate. They keep your heart, lungs, and circulatory system healthy, and improve your overall fitness. Building endurance helps you attain the ability to do your brisk walking or jogging, yard work or gardening, even dancing.
Strength exercises make your muscles stronger. Even small increases in strength can make a big difference in your ability to stay independent and carry out everyday activities, such as climbing stairs and carrying groceries. You can lift weights, use resistance bands, or your own body weight.
Balance exercises can help prevent falls, a common problem in older adults. Many lower-body strength exercises also will improve your balance. Standing counter exercises for balance, Water aerobics, Tai Chi.
Flexibility exercises stretch your muscles and can help your body stay limber. Being flexible gives you more range of movement for other exercises as well as for your everyday activities. Shoulder & upper arm stretches, calf stretches, or even yoga help stretch our muscles, and give us freedom.
Stay as active as you can, find what is comfortable, and make it something you enjoy! If someone were to say exercising is your gardening routine and that was your highlight of your day, how would you feel about exercise?
Article Provided by: Brook Lynne Phelts,
Patriots Landing
877-964-4900
www.PatriotsLanding.com
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