It is very important for seniors to stay fit and healthy even if they are already in their golden years. By staying physically fit, a senior will be able to delay early onset of common age-related diseases, if not preventing them altogether. In fact, most of these common illnesses are lifestyle diseases and can be easily managed with a combination of good diet and exercise; all you need is some patience to do it.
By engaging in a sport, you maintain a physically fit body; you are able to draw out toxins. These toxins are the culprits in making your life miserable later on affecting your quality of life. Exercise also affects the way you feel and think about the world around you, putting you in a much better perspective; making you live your life to the fullest; lead your life exactly how you want it to be. General appearance is very important for seniors as it becomes the main basis of younger adults on how they will treat you. If you look frail and unstable, they will treat you like a child needing constant care, even if you are still in the right frame of mind. On the contrary, if you look strong and capable, they will not question your authority and will respect your decisions. That’s how strong the power of suggestion can be.
Generally speaking, you exercise for your own self-improvement as nobody else will benefit from it but you. Although not even half of the senior population is interested in doing sports, it is still important that you stay active as much as you can and don’t let anything else stand in the way. Your exercise doesn’t need to be too pressing, tiring and sweaty; anything that will keep you moving is fine. Here are some excellent exercise ideas for seniors of all ages:
· Gardening. Gardening is very therapeutic for seniors. This kind of activity is easy, fun and very rewarding. You can experiment with your garden anytime you want to and if you are lucky, it can even give you something to wonderful to eat. You can be a flower or fruit person depending on your preferences.
· Yoga. It was said that yoga is the most recommended form of exercise for seniors. It will improve your flexibility and balance. Moreover, it will calm you down and put your mind at ease—as if you are in-control of your life and the things around you. You can even invite friends to go with you for a little bonding time.
· Swimming. This activity is considered light for seniors but can certainly do your body good. For starters, it improves your cardiovascular system particularly your pulmonary circulation. It is very kind to your joints as it bears no weight but tones your muscles just the same. You can even do water aerobics if one is available within your club. Swimming is considered as endurance training since it can build your endurance levels overtime.
· Dancing. Dancing is fun and it is a great way to meet new friends as well. Seniors can join dance classes of their choice within their area. Ballroom dancing will keep seniors active and sociable thus adding zest to their lives. Dancing is fun even if you are going solo, as a couple or part of a group. It improves both health and happiness of seniors.
These are just a couple of suggestions as you can develop your own set of exercises that will perfectly fit your current lifestyle and health limitations. As a rule of thumb, you must see your health care provider first before doing exercises as it can put your health in compromise if you don’t. Also, try to stay hydrated every time you engage in an activity.