Even though not everyone loves working out, research suggests that seniors who maintain their physical fitness can live independently for longer. Exercise has many health advantages, but it also improves balance, which helps individuals avoid falls that might cause significant injury. Additionally, exercising gives you more energy, allowing you to do more of the things you like, like spending time with your children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who want you to live a long life.

The truth is that most seniors can easily fit in some healthy physical exercise throughout the day, and it may even be enjoyable and a great opportunity to meet new people.

You don't need to work out at a gym; you may take the stairs instead of the lift or escalator, go for brisk walks, ride a bike, swim, or dance. Exercise not only delays illness and other aging issues but also improves your mental state since it generates endorphins, which make you feel elated and content.

Four exercise methods

The National Institute on Aging advises seniors to include all four exercise categories—endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility—in their regular physical activity routine.

Endurance:

Build up to at least 30 minutes of exercise that causes you to breathe heavily. It may be done 3-5 times per week in 10-minute intervals. As you become more fit, raise your time and energy levels from the beginning.

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Strength:

Everything you do uses your muscles, including getting out of a chair, picking up a grandchild, and carrying groceries. You'd like to be able to accomplish all of these things on your own. Maintaining a good muscular tone keeps you independent.

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Balance:

For elders, falls are the main reason for fractures, trauma hospitalizations, loss of independence, and injury fatalities. You may develop your balance by doing heel-to-toe walking and standing on one foot.

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Flexibility:

You can stretch whenever you want, wherever you are. Stretch your back, neck, arms, and legs. It will be simpler for you to reach for items whether they are on a high shelf or the ground, tie your shoes, and check over your shoulder as you reverse out of the driveway.

At Heritage Care Home Fitness

Every Heritage Care Home Senior Living community offers a thorough fitness program that addresses all four of the aforementioned areas. This includes our exclusive Fitness programs, which are customized to each resident's fitness level and provided in a group or one-on-one setting with a specially trained staff member, as well as fitness and wellness rooms where you can work out alone.

Just keep in mind to begin gradually, especially if you have not been very active recently. Never hold your breath while performing strength exercises, and always use safety gear (such as a helmet when riding a bike). Aim to work out for at least 30 minutes a few days a week while keeping yourself hydrated.