Exploring Exercise Programs For 70-Year-Olds

There are numerous health benefits to be enjoyed through exercise programs for 70-year-olds. Unfortunately, too many people allow their inactivity to increase once they reach a certain age. In fact, one in two women, and one in three men, don't engage in enough physical activity. You can boost your mood and your health by regularly exercising.

Despite aging, the key to maintaining stamina and strength is by remaining active. You, as the adult child of an aging loved one (or friend), can help your loved one remain physically active by showing support and by encouraging them to exercise on a regular basis.

Here, we will explore, very briefly, the benefits of exercise for retirement-age individuals. Then we'll look at some exercises that are safe and healthy.

Exercise Benefits

Unfortunately, falls are something that many of today's older individuals need to be concerned about. However, to reduce the risk of experiencing a fall-related injury (such as a fracture), regular exercise can go a long way. It helps keep muscles more toned and joints more flexible. It can also help improve balance.

For people with disabling, chronic conditions, it's important to improve stamina and strength. Regular exercise can improve the health of muscles, joints, and bones. When retirement age adults participate in physical activities, arthritic swelling and pain may be reduced.

Over 70? Try These Activities

Here's a list of exercises/activities you may want to consider if you are 70 years of age and older. Keep in mind that, if you have physical limitations, you should not push yourself past your limits or endanger yourself in any way (check with your physician when in doubt):

• Aerobic classes
• Walking
• Pilates
• Yoga
• Swimming (among the many amenities at Aston Gardens is a heated swimming pool)
• Sit-and-be-fit

Exercises for 70-Year-Olds

Here are some specific exercises to try out:

• Rotational Hip Twists: With your hands on your hips, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. About 90° (or as far as you can), twist your hips. In both directions (right and left), repeat this exercise. If you experience dizziness, in one even line, try focusing your eyes.
• Side to Side Sway: With your feet shoulder length apart, stand in one place. Left to right, "wag" your body. Judging by the edge of your feet, your hips should reach slightly beyond.
• Hip Hinges: Here, you will first bow forward. Then, extend your hips forward as you come back up. In essence, this exercise is a type of hip extension/flexion.

Participate in Our Exercise and Wellness Programs at Aston Gardens At Pelican Marsh

Courtesy of our Dimensions Health and Fitness program, you can combine socialization with exercise, and more. We concentrate on the emotional, medical, physical, spiritual, intellectual, and social needs of our residents. We provide, as part of an exclusive lifestyle curriculum, a comprehensive program for wellness and fitness. Included are spiritual gatherings, educational classes, water aerobics, yoga, and more. In our community, there's always something fun and enriching going on.