Exercising as we reach our senior years is critical to maintaining mobility and independence. Remaining active is also important for overall health and well-being. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adults aged 65 and older should incorporate both aerobic and muscle strengthening activities into our weekly routines. This helps in preventing chronic diseases and improving our quality of life.
The Importance of Exercise for Healthy Aging
Regular physical activity is one of the most important things older adults can do to maintain good health. Exercise can help prevent or delay many of the health problems that come with age, such as heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis. It can also improve muscle strength, balance, and flexibility. This is crucial for maintaining independence and reducing the risk of falls. And for those of us living in Seattle where nature abounds, remaining strong and mobile allows us to enjoy all that this beautiful area has to offer.
Recommended Exercise Types for Seniors
Maintaining independence as seniors entails focusing on a combination of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, muscle-strengthening exercises, and balance training. These exercises can be incorporated in many ways. It's important to choose activities you enjoy to stay motivated and consistent with your exercise routine.
Here are some recommended exercises for seniors:
Aerobic Activities
Moderate-intensity aerobic activities, such as brisk walking, swimming, cycling, and dancing can help improve cardiovascular health and endurance. These activities strengthen the heart and lungs and improve circulation, increase endurance, and promote overall well-being. Independent senior living communities, like Horizon House in Seattle offer a full suite of fitness and movement classes to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Strength Training
Strength training exercises (such as these suggested by the CDC) are crucial for maintaining muscle mass and preventing age-related muscle loss. Exercises that strengthen the major muscle groups and improve functional strength, make everyday tasks easier to perform. A trainer at any gym can show you the best strength training exercises to perform. Horizon House has an in-house gym that is open 24/7 with access to fitness experts who will provide you with your very own personal fitness training plan. They’ll also show you how to properly use weight-training equipment, treadmills, and elliptical machines.
Balance and Flexibility
For seniors, flexibility and balance exercises are essential for reducing the risk of falls and maintaining mobility. Activities such as yoga, tai chi, and Pilates focus on improving flexibility and balance. Horizon House offers residents a specialized program called
BEAM—Balance, Exercise and Mobility which integrates personal fitness with special training equipment, tailored just for you.
Incorporating Exercise into Your Daily Life
Regardless of age or fitness level, it's important to find activities you enjoy and can easily incorporate into your daily routine. Whether it's taking a daily walk around a Seattle neighborhood, attending a group fitness class at the Horizon House gym, or practicing yoga, staying active is key to healthy aging.
Incorporating Exercise into Your Daily Life
Regardless of age or fitness level, it's important to find activities you enjoy and can easily incorporate into your daily routine. Whether it's taking a daily walk around a Seattle neighborhood, attending a group fitness class at the Horizon House gym, or practicing yoga, staying active is key to healthy aging.
Stay Active to Stay Healthy and Maintain Your Independence
Horizon House Retirement Community in Seattle makes it easy to incorporate a well-rounded exercise routine into your life. Horizon House has classes, resources, and support available to help you stay active, independent and healthy as you age.
Horizon House in Seattle is a vibrant independent living community which appeals to active and engaged seniors. At Horizon House, residents create the lives they most want to live. Come see for yourself and pay us a visit today!