As we get older, it is normal to experience stiff muscles and joints.
While it may seem like a sign to not start working out anytime soon, staying fit actually helps manage the stiffness and pain.
When it comes to senior fitness, there is a whole lot of myth and very little understanding of the benefits exercising provides to older adults.
Let’s bust some myths and look at the many benefits quickly.
Myths regarding senior fitness
- I’ll never be as fit as I was
Our body undergoes major changes as we get older, especially in our muscle mass, metabolism, etc. However, you can still have a fitness routine as long as you set realistic goals for your age.
- I’m more likely to get injured now
While starting to exercise may be difficult, keeping at it regularly can make you healthier and stronger, reducing your chance of getting injured.
- I’m too old to start exercising now
There’s no age to be more active in life. Even older adults can start their fitness journey through simpler exercises and slowly build up the intensity over time.
- I’m in pain; I can’t workout
Pain and weakness are the most common reason many people don’t exercise. However, working out, especially in older adults, helps manage pain and improves strength.
- I can’t work out; I’m disabled
Chair adults for older adults have become quite popular, thanks to Sit and Be Fit DVDs. Through such low-intensity sitting exercises, seniors can easily remain fit without having to get up.
Now that we have busted some myths, it’s time to look at the physical and mental benefits of senior fitness.
Physical benefits of senior fitness
- Maintain weight
Since metabolism rates decrease as we age, the tendency to put on weight is more. Regular exercising can help maintain the weight and even reduce the extra pounds. It also helps build muscle mass and metabolism.
- Reduce the disease impacts
Exercising can help manage pain and the impact of several diseases. The immune system and digestive functioning of seniors also get a boost through a workout.
Furthermore, the risk of diseases like osteoporosis, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s is also reduced.
- Be more mobile
Regular workout makes older adults more mobile. Their strength and muscle mass get proper conditioning, making them capable of moving around better.
Seniors can also experience more flexibility and lowered risk of falls with a fitness routine.
Mental benefits of senior fitness
- Improves sleep
Older adults generally have trouble getting restful sleep. However, with regular activity, they experience a better sleep cycle and deeper sleep. They also can fall asleep faster and wake up feeling energized and refreshed every day.
- Boosts mood
Exercise acts as a major stress-buster. While the endorphins released during workouts help improve mood, a general feeling of self-sufficiency also contributes towards a better mood. Seniors can also feel stronger and more confident about themselves when they work out regularly.
- Improve brain function
While activities like sudoku and crossword puzzles ensure cognitive health, nothing can beat the effects that a good workout has on the body. With increased blood flow, your brain is more efficient than ever and is protected from memory loss, a common problem in many elderly.
Conclusion
Fitness for seniors is not something to be taken lightly.
Regular exercising can help older adults manage their chronic diseases, pain, and stiffness better.
Not only are seniors fully capable of working out, but also the exercises for seniors are easy to do and not very straining to the body.
Thus, a fitness routine is very much a necessity in the lives of senior citizens.