At Seniors Helping Seniors® in-home care services, we’re passionate about keeping Heartland seniors fit, strong, and active! We all know that sticking to a consistent fitness routine benefits both the body and mind, and the start of the summer season provides good motivation to get moving.
But practicing the same exercises every day can be a drag. Luckily, there are tons of ways to get the blood pumping! If you or a senior loved one are looking to mix up a daily fitness routine, give one of the activities below a try. Seniors Helping Seniors® caregivers love helping our clients step out of their comfort zone and are always excited to assist those we serve in knocking out all their fitness goals!
Back To Basics
There are two things that are an essential part of any fitness routine: stretching and drinking plenty of water. These actions will help prevent injury and dehydration, in addition to ensuring you or your loved one are primed for each work out.
Stretch
Stretching not only keeps the body limber to help prevent injury, it’s also great for building core strength, engaging muscles, and boosting heart rate. In addition, it increases flexibility, while relieving stress and anxiety in the process.
Stay Hydrated
It’s important to keep the body hydrated all the time, but especially when exercising. In fact, seniors are more likely to become dehydrated through sweating, a recent study revealed, because seniors’ bodies don’t regulate heat as efficiently as younger individuals.
In general, experts recommend drinking one-third of our body weight in ounces of water each day. So, individuals who weigh 150 pounds should aim to drink 50 ounces of water per day.
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s jump into some of the summer’s hottest senior fitness activities!
Pickleball
Pickleball was first created in the 1960’s but has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past few years, especially in the senior circuit. In fact, one-third of all pickleball players in the U.S. are 65 years of age or older!
A mix of tennis and ping pong, pickleball provides a variety of perks that boost senior health. For example, studies show that individuals who play pickleball three times a week experience benefits including:
- Lower cholesterol and blood pressure
- Improved cardiovascular fitness
- Better range of motion, reflexes, and balance
Another perk is that pickleball is an extremely social sport with a tight knit and accepting community. Whether our clients play with a Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver, a group of long-time friends, or a new friend just met on the court, the social aspect of this sport keeps players committed and engaged!
Tai Chi
This ancient martial art covers a wide range of mental and physical health benefits for seniors. Tai chi combines strength, balance, and meditation for a holistic approach to fitness. Not to mention, the practice is a form of defense training and learning a few self-defense moves leaves participants feeling strong and empowered!
Tai chi can be modified for a variety of fitness levels. Many moves can be performed from a seated position to start, and the local fitness center may even have Tai chi classes designed specifically for seniors!
No matter your or your senior loved one’s skill level, Tai chi will help improve balance, range of motion, and build strength, while providing a meditative experience.
Water Exercises
Working out in the pool is a versatile – and fun – way to stay fit. There are tons of water exercises that are perfect for seniors, including water aerobics, swimming laps, and strength training.
One of the most alluring aspects of water fitness routines, however, is the fact that they are low impact. Exercising in water takes the pressure off joints, but still offers gentle resistance and a wonderful way to improve cardiovascular stamina. Better yet, exercising in the pool will keep you or your special senior cool on hot summer days!
Regardless of what kind of fitness activities float your or your senior loved one’s boat, Seniors Helping Seniors® caregivers are committed to helping our clients stay active. Make fitness a top priority this summer and talk to a member of our team about how we can help!