Regular exercise isn’t just important for maintaining your physical health as you get older — it can also improve cognitive function and mental health. In fact, research has shown that regular physical activity can directly reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia. But what are the best types of exercise for seniors? After all, you don’t want to end up injured doing activities intended to improve your physical and mental well-being. Continue reading for a look at some of the best types of exercises seniors can do daily.
Walking
One of the simplest and most accessible ways to get moving is getting up and taking a walk. Living in an assisted living community will make walking even easier, because you’ll have well-maintained walkways to explore in every season. Walking helps get your heart rate up, builds the muscles in your lower body, and aids in maintaining a healthy weight. With daily walks as part of your senior fitness routine, you can improve your balance, reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer, and boost your mood.
Chair Yoga
Mobility is essential for seniors who often deal with arthritis, osteoporosis, and other musculoskeletal conditions that can cause chronic pain. Chair yoga is a low-impact way to improve mobility and reduce inflammation while building strength and flexibility. By using a chair to support different yoga postures, you can safely explore this beneficial form of exercise without a high risk of injury.
Pilates
Pilates focuses on slow, controlled movements that emphasize strengthening the core — otherwise known as your body’s powerhouse. Many Pilates movements are performed lying down on an exercise mat, allowing for low-impact movements.
Strength Training
During the aging process, it’s common to lose muscle mass. Strength training with lightweight dumbbells can help you rebuild muscle definition and strength, while isolating specific muscle groups. Simple exercises like bicep curls and tricep extensions can boost upper body strength while offering a variety of benefits like higher metabolism and improved glucose control.
Join Twin Town Villa and Prioritize Exercise for Yourself!
At Twin Town Villa, residents have access to amenities like a modern fitness center, well-maintained outdoor areas, and recreational activities to keep moving and stay fit. Our senior living community is all about helping our residents maintain their independence and make the most of their golden years. Learn more by giving us a call at (218) 643-9542 to schedule a tour of our community.