It’s irrefutable; seniors need exercise in order to keep everything inside their body in good, working order—well that’s besides looking good on the outside too. However, as an owner of a good, “vintage” piece of machinery known as the body of mine, I do know that not every exercise equipment in the market today is safe for me to use, or else there will be an onslaught of aging bodies bursting of muscles ala Schwarzenegger and it wouldn’t be a nice sight too.

So yes, it’s quite confusing to decide what exercises to do and what types of exercise equipments to use especially if your age is the limit. Which reminds me, consult your doctor first before starting on any program as your current state of health may not permit it or you may need certain adjustments to it such as intensity and time spent on exercising—these things are important to note when a senior is exercising. You may also want to sign up with a professional trainer specializing with geriatrics to ensure you are doing all your exercise routines right. Furthermore, if you are thinking of going to a gym, do check if the gym is seniors-friendly—that is, if it is adequately equipped with anti-slip rubber flooring which at the same time can help you prevent injuries in the instances of accidental falls.

•    Elliptical trainers. Stationary elliptical trainers are good for seniors doing cardio exercises since it trains your heart and at the same time, your hips and legs thus improving balance. It is also considered as low-impact so you don’t have to worry about hurting yourself if you are a beginner.
•    Recumbent bikes. This kind of exercise bike is much kinder to your knees and it supports your back beautifully while you concentrate on giving your body’s lower half a good exercise.
•    Dumbbells. Since dumbbells involve using just one of your hands, you’ll be able to separately adjust weight according to your hand’s preferred weight unlike with a barbell when you have to use both hands to balance the bar. Do note that it is not uncommon to find one of your hands to be stronger than the other thus the difference in capacity.
•    Rowing machines. For pulling exercises, seniors are better off using rowing machines. When done concentrating only on the upper body, it trains the back and shoulders perfectly.
•    Leg curl machine. Since you have to do this sitting down, it eases the pressure on your back while giving it the support it needs. Also, leg curls concentrates on training the legs so it gives your upper body some rest.