It’s very important to
continue exercising
as
we age. Exercise plays a crucial role in combating diseases and health
conditions that become more common with age for example heart disease,
osteoporosis, arthritis, diabetes, hypertension as well as depression. When
executed correctly, exercise helps seniors maintain stability and balance while
lowering the risk of falling and becoming injured.
But
as we grow older, some ways we
used
to stay active are no longer
appropriate
for our aging bodies.
Aging isn't an excuse to avoid exercise.
Actually, exercise can help seniors stay functional and productive. When talking
about the best types of
exercise
equipment for the elderly, you should consider
the
individual fitness level of the specific senior. After all, many
seniors happen to be working out for decades, and may really be in better shape
than their kids and grandchildren. Nonetheless,
even
the fittest grandma or grandpa may not be immune to the injuries
related to aging.
Certain types of equipment
do
a better job of helping prevent these injuries.
Comfortable
Bike
RidingExercise bikes come in two varieties, a conventional
model with a regular bike seat along with a recumbent model, which features a
chair-like seat. Both can provide you with an excellent cardio workout, but a
recumbent bike
is
particularly recommended for older people. As Hsuka Clinic explains,
recumbent bikes
are
more comfortable to ride and safer
and
easier to get on and off. The seat on the recumbent bike offers
excellent back support,
as
well. In addition, exercise bikes are low-impact, that is helpful for
people with joint problems
such
as arthritis.
The Ease of EllipticalsAlthough
they are not for everyone, elliptical machines often work nicely for
seniors. You move the foot pads within an elliptical manner to operate the
machines, which puts
a
minimal amount of stress on your hips, knees and back. MayoClinic.com
says the extremely low-impact motion
makes
an elliptical machine a good choice for many people. The armrests with
an elliptical machine give you additional stability, and levers allow you to
work your upper along with your lower body.
Beat the
Heat IndoorsWalking is a great exercise for seniors, but
getting outside within the heat of summer could be detrimental to your health.
On the treadmill, however, you can walk on the predictable, obstacle-free,
comfortable low-impact surface with handrails for support. If you can to walk
without using the handrails, it can help improve your balance, as well. Make
sure to keep your eyes straight ahead while you walk toward better
health.
Recumbent Stationary
BikeInstead of just a stationary bike,
using
a recumbent stationary bike for workouts is way better. It helps in
supporting the rear while you workout, can be used by
men
and women, helps strengthen the leg muscles, and put pressure on the
knees.
Yoga BlocksYoga blocks or yoga bricks are props which help
in aligning the body and improving its posture.
They
come in either foam or wooden form and therefore are used while doing
several yoga poses. It is simple to perform different Asanas and won't be under
any chance of pulling muscles or causing strain.