EveryBody Fitness: Empowering Through Exercise.
Maintaining an active lifestyle becomes crucial for sustaining health, vitality and independence as we age. Today’s first Monday of the month TrueToMyBody post summarizes some of our favorite fitness topics.
For those over 60 – or any age exercise beginners, sedentary individuals or someone newly recovered from injury or illness – engaging in regular physical activity enhances quality of life by improving strength, flexibility, balance, and mental health. An added bonus is that many of these activities introduce us to new friends.
1. Start with Walking.
Walking is one of the simplest and safest exercises. It doesn’t require special equipment beyond a comfortable pair of shoes, and it can be done almost anywhere. Aim for at least 20 minutes of brisk walking most days of the week.
2. Incorporate Strength Training.
Muscle mass naturally declines with age and sedentary living, but this muscle loss can be countered through strength training. Using light weights or resistance bands, we focus on major muscle groups like the legs, back, arms, and core. Start with lighter weights and gradually increase the resistance as your strength improves.
3. Try Yoga, Tai Chi or Other FlexibilityBalance Exercises.
Both yoga and tai chi are excellent for improving flexibility, balance, and mental well-being. These practices help reduce stress and improve posture, which is particularly beneficial as the body ages.
EssentricsTM Aging Backwards, created by Miranda Esmonde-White and seen on many PBS stations as Classical Stretch by EssentricsTM, also provides posture, strength and flexibility benefits. Check the Essentrics website to see if you can find a live class in your area.
4. Engage in Water Aerobics.
Water aerobics are an excellent option for those who might find traditional exercising challenging. The buoyancy of water reduces stress on joints and muscles, while still providing a good cardio and strength-training workout.
For weight management make sure actively to move your body, rather than just gently bob to music!
5. Consult with a Professional.
Before starting any new exercise regimen, it’s wise to speak with a healthcare provider or a fitness professional. Certified Personal Trainers with Boomer/Senior specific, or corrective exercise training – such as myself! – make an excellent choice.
6. Stay Consistent.
Consistency is key in maintaining fitness. Make exercise a regular part of your routine and try integrating it with social activities, like walking with a friend or joining a group class. Group activities give a sense of community – alleviating loneliness which may beset those who have lost spouses and/or lifelong friends.
7. Listen to Your Body.
As years go by, the risk of injury increases, so it’s important to listen to our bodies. Don’t push too hard and rest when needed. Recognizing and respecting our body’s limits are crucial aspects of a sustainable fitness regimen.
Conclusion.
Staying active over 60, or re-beginning an exercise program, are not just about adding years to our life – it’s about adding life to our years – the essence of Vibrant Longevity.
By incorporating a variety of exercises tailored to our capabilities and interests, we’ll boost our physical health, enjoy greater energy and mental clarity and make new friends in the process. WF!
FITNESS CLASSES!
Zoom Zumba® Gold class every Friday at 9:30 a.m..
Seven-week Spring Season Essentrics® Aging Backwards Classes happens every Friday through May 31, at 1:30 p.m. at the Seal Beach Senior Center, 707 Electric Ave, Seal Beach, CA 90740.
Zoom Private Personal Training Available Now!
Rate $55 for half hour class.
Strong, Lean and Limber can be yours.
ANYONE RECEIVING THIS BLOG WHO WANTS MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE EMAIL ME AT WILDFIRE1@TRUETOMYBODY.COM.
