You’ve heard it your whole life – exercise is a crucial part of a healthy lifestyle. Exercise helps with bone density, balance, flexibility, and blood circulation, all of which are important parts of healthy aging.
If you’re a senior who’s never worked out before, you might feel like it’s too late. Maybe you think you missed your chance, so why bother starting now?
There’s good news – it’s never too late to start working out. Whether you’re in a St. Augustine assisted living facility or living on your own, there are easy ways to get your heart pumping. Anyone, no matter what age, can benefit from exercise!
How to Get Started
If you’re ready to get started, first things first: talk to your doctor.
Your doctor will conduct a physical exam to determine your current fitness level and identify any contraindications. They will offer potential adjustments you’ll need to make due to preexisting medical conditions.
You might need to adjust your newly-found exercise routine because of diabetes, mobility issues like arthritis, or heart problems. However, there is no need to get discouraged; the right kind of exercise can help you manage these conditions and even improve!
Pick What You Like
After knowing what types of exercise you can and cannot do (per your doctor), pick activities you truly enjoy!
If you’re in a facility for independent living in St. Augustine, FL, a great place to start is with the activities director. If you live on your own, you can explore fitness events at your local community center.
Ideally, your routine will include elements of aerobics, resistance training, and balance training. These three ingredients are the recipe for heart and lung health, healthy bones and muscles, and good mobility.
Keeping this in mind, consider what you enjoy doing. Some exercises to consider include:
- Walking
- Swimming
- Cycling
- Yoga
- Pilates
- Tai chi
- Golf
Remember this adage: “The best exercise is the one you’ll stick with!” If you enjoy being active, you’ll want to keep up the good work.
Track Your Progress
Make sure you track your progress so that you stay motivated and encouraged.
There’s nothing more rewarding than realizing you’re able to walk farther, endure longer, or move better. Knowing you’re gaining strength, flexibility, and endurance can help improve your mental and emotional health as you get older.
Stay Hydrated and Eat Healthy Foods
As you incorporate exercise into your routine, you’ll want to be especially conscious of your hydration and nutrition.
Make sure you’re getting enough water and eating the right healthy foods to help your body heal and improve.
Benefits of Exercise for Seniors
When seniors maintain a healthy exercise routine, they often experience the following benefits:
- Disease prevention
- Better balance, decreasing the risk of falls and broken bones
- Improved mental and emotional health
- Improved cognitive function
Exercise is beneficial to everyone, but seniors especially can reap myriad benefits from keeping active as they age.
Exercise and Improved Socialization in St. Augustine Assisted Living Facilities
Another major benefit of exercise for seniors is improved socialization, which helps with your overall quality of life.
Some St. Augustine assisted living facilities to provide fitness centers so seniors can work out safely in the company of others.
Ready to Get Started?
When it comes to trying something new, don’t let fear hold you back. You’re never too old to get started, so why wait?
Reach out to a friend or loved one and see if they’ll start a new routine with you. Sunrise or sunset walks are a great way to spend quality time with a special person while enjoying the benefits of exercise.
No action is too small. Don’t overthink it!
