We can’t say it enough, the
key to staying independent as you age is to keep moving! Staying active and fit
as a senior has so many proven benefits to both your physical and mental
health. Don’t worry, you don’t need to run 5 miles every day to unlock these
advantages. There are much simpler, and maybe less traditional ways for older
adults to work out. If you or a loved one are looking for motivation to stay
fit, our senior activity coordinators in Pitman, NJ have put together a list of
unconventional workouts for older adults.
- Dancing is a great option for seniors to
get a good cardio workout. Put on your favorite music and dance your heart
out! If standing too long is an issue, you can always modify it by sitting
in a chair and dancing with your upper half. Get your hands above your
head and if possible, tap your legs to the beat. At Pitman we call this
“Chair Dancing” and it is always a well-attended activity. Remember to
always modify your movement or take a break if needed. If you’re in pain
that means something is wrong, so stop and ask for help.
- Yoga is another great way to get your
exercise in. There’s an endless amount of videos online to guide you
through the process. Yoga is very gentle on the body and great for the
mind. Yoga preaches that it is something anyone can do, so there is a
modification for almost every pose. It is a slower practice, which is
easier on your heart and breathing, but it still gives a great workout.
Chair yoga is also an option if there is too much pressure on your legs.
- Golf is another great exercise for seniors
but you have to promise not to take the golf cart to each hole! Sure, some
of them are very far apart so a golf cart ride is necessary, but take any
opportunity you can get to walk.
- We admit this next one isn’t exactly
unconventional but it has many benefits and can be done almost
anywhere. Walk, walk, walk. Make it a part of your daily routine to
take a walk. If the weather is nice take your walk outside. Besides the
walking itself, it’s beneficial to get fresh air and some Vitamin D. While
you’re walking be conscious of your arms and if possible, move your arms
in rhythm with your walk. This slight addition makes it a full-body
exercise. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even hold light weights
on your walk! Getting out of your chair and doing it is the hardest part
of taking a walk but folks are universally happy they did it
afterward. You can do it!
Assisted
living at UMC Pitman
Whatever exercise you
choose, it’s important for your physical and mental health to keep your body
moving. Make sure you get at least 30 minutes of movement a day to stay in your
best shape, mentally and physically. This does not have to be all at once, you
can do fifteen minutes of a movement twice a day if that’s easier for you. At UMC at Pitman, exercise
opportunities are scheduled regularly so you never have to worry about getting
your workout in – you just have to show up and move it! And the best part is
you get to do it with all your new friends.
If you think Pitman might be
the right home for you or your loved one, contact us today!
Also, check out the website
for more information – https://pitman.umcommunities.org/
Original blog posted on https://pitman.umcommunities.org/2022/04/11/unconventional-workout-routines-for-independent-seniors/
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