Aging should not keep you from exercising or being physically active. While limited mobility issues can make certain types of exercise harder to perform, you should still aim to get your body moving. This also means avoiding long hours of watching TV and sitting to talk, read, or listen to music.
Exercise improves your strength, flexibility, posture and mobility. This also enhances your balance and coordination, which in turn helps reduce the risk of falls. Physical fitness can also increase your metabolism and build muscle mass, helping you burn more calories.
Macdonalds Home Health Care shares a few physical activities beneficial to older adults.
Walking
This is a perfect way to start exercising, as it requires no special sporting equipment, apart from a good pair of walking shoes. It is an underrated form of exercise that has been shown to reduce the risk of illnesses such as asthma, stroke, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers. To get its full benefits, it should be a moderate-intensity activity, and should be faster than a stroll.
Water Aerobics
Exercising in water is great for you as it reduces stress levels and strain on your joints. Activities like swimming can also lower the risk of chronic illness such as heart disease and stroke. It can also enhance your mood and keep your weight under control. Swimming is a beneficial skill that could save lives.
Yoga
Combining a series of poses and breathing, yoga improves your strength, balance and flexibility. Studies also suggest that it is a safe and effective way to increase physical activity. Some evidence also notes that it is beneficial for people with heart disease, lower back pain and stress.
Tai Chi
Originally developed as martial arts, this exercise combines deep breathing with gentle and slow movements. Studies have shown that tai chi can help older people reduce stress and improve balance and coordination. It can also improve mobility in the ankle and knee in people with rheumatoid arthritis.
Include these activities in your routine to get physical and mental benefits. It is also advisable to consult your healthcare provider before starting a certain type of physical fitness class.