24by7Article.com | Fitness for Seniors

As we grow older, we are less likely to engage in physical activity. How important is fitness for seniors? Research has conclusively demonstrated that physical activity is linked to elevated longevity. The amount of exercise needed depends on the person, but in general, people need to increase their physical activity as they get older. Yet, elderly people frequently do the opposite.

It is never too late to start exercising. At any age, actually small improvements in physical fitness and activity (such as walking regularly) can prolong life as well as independent living. Yet, many people are still sedentary. If you are like lots of people, you know that exercise is good for you, yet you cannot seem to get moving.

Where to start:

You must make a deliberate, planned effort to exercise. Pick an activity you enjoy or have enjoyed in the past, such as strolling, dancing, cycling, swimming, or gardening, and make a commitment to doing the work regularly. Focus on making the experience as pleasant as possible. Request a friend to be your activity partner.

Start slowly, with less than five minutes of activity, and progress gradually. If you have been sedentary, accept the fact that it may take you a while to be able to move constantly for 30 minutes. Recognize that you might feel some discomfort at first.

Over time, you will get stronger and these early aches will fade. If you choose to embark on vigorous exercise and you are over the age of 50, or even have risk factors for heart disease, check with your doctor before starting any workout program.

Senior fitness tips:

*The easiest way to start a physical fitness program is to start with stretching exercises (versatility exercises). Stretching movements promote healthy muscle growth and lower the stiffness and lack of balance that accompanies getting older.

*If you are hesitant to start a workout program, consider others methods of being physically active. Walking, bicycling, swimming, aerobic water exercises, and gardening are extremely good exercise options.

*Water exercises are especially beneficial for the elderly and have been shown to have similar cardiovascular benefits for older people because "on the ground" aerobic exercises.

*For those who have brought a sedentary lifestyle for a long time, low impact aerobics, tai chi, or even self-paced walking are very beneficial. Start slowly. Even for those confined to a nursing home, there are programs geared towards enhancing strength and flexibility.

*Most people assume that strength training is unnecessary and unattainable after the age of 60. Nevertheless, the opposite is true. As one ages, adding resistance training to a physical exercise program can reduce the process of muscle erosion. Strength training also enhances heart and blood vessel health and general well being.

BENEFITS OF Activity:

A sedentary lifestyle is one of the major risk factors for coronary artery disease, along with smoking, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure level. Exercise, however, improves heart health in people and can reverse some risk factors, including the results of smoking. People who exercise the most often have the lowest risk with regard to heart disease and stroke.

Exercise provides the following benefits:

*Reduces your risk of developing certain types of cancer such as prostate gland, colon, and breast.

*Reduces your risk of: diabetes, obesity, hypertension, osteoarthritis and osteoporosis.

*Helps you maintain a healthy weight through increasing your metabolism.

*Increases energy as well as endurance.

*Helps relieve stress, anxiety, and depression.

*Contributes to better, much more restful sleep.

Eating a healthy, nutritious diet and following a physical exercise program are the keys to residing your best life. No matter what your age, it is NEVER too late to start moving!