Staying fit, healthy and in shape is important for everyone regardless of age. However, over the last year, this has proven to be difficult with many people’s exercising outlets being forced to close due to lockdown restrictions.
Although some people easily adapted their exercise routines to fit within the comfort of their own homes, this wasn’t a viable option for others, especially many older adults. As the UK continues to follow the roadmap out of lockdown, this means that gyms, swimming pools, sports facilities and leisure centres can now re-open and people’s usual exercise routines can safely resume.
Not everyone will be as eager to rush back to normality and may want to take small steps at first, and that is completely fine. Older people may be a bit more apprehensive about rushing back to normality after shielding for longer.
If you aren’t in a hurry to get back out there but would still like to keep fit and healthy, then AgeUK have put together some simple and fun exercises for older adults to try.
Let’s take a look at some of the fun exercises for older adults.
Zumba
There are many health benefits when it comes to Zumba, not only does it burn calories and help keep your mind sharp, but it can help reduce stress and improve heart health. Zumba is a great way for older adults to exercise because it’s a low-impact workout and helps to protect your joints and muscles.
When you are dancing to the latin-inspired music, you’ll be having so much fun that you’ll forget it’s exercise! Check your local area for classes that are starting up again, either in person or via Zoom, or you can watch YouTube videos online and join in the fun.
Yoga
Yoga is another fun exercise for older adults to try. It can help you improve your stretching, breathing and meditation and is ideal for those who have sore, tired muscles. Whether you are a beginner or have a little experience doing yoga, there is something for everyone of all ages and ability levels.
Yoga can help you strengthen the abdominal muscles and improve your core stability which can help you become steadier on your feet. Some yoga poses are beneficial for improving your flexibility and increasing your range of motion, so it’s worth holding those poses for several breaths to allow your muscles to relax and loosen up. Like with Zumba, you can find online classes or follow along with videos online.
Dumbbell strength training
When we get older, many of us lose muscle mass. A good way to prevent this or even reverse it is to start dumbbell exercises. This can help build up strength and improve your mobility, mental sharpness, and metabolism.
For those looking to improve back, shoulders, arms, and core strength, try the bent-over row workout but only do this if you don’t have any pain in those areas. Overhead press and shoulder press exercises target the shoulder muscles, helping to strengthen the back and arms. Doing these exercises can help you reach over your head and can improve your ability to lift things easily.
Hopefully these 3 exercises that we have highlighted in this post will help you ease back into exercise and stay fit and healthy. Remember to always check with your doctor for clearance before starting any new exercise program.
