Fitness for Seniors

As an older adult, the amount of weight you lift or the amount of resistance you face with the exercise bands is important. Lifting a very light weight 20 times will do little for your strength and muscle mass if you don't have to work at lifting... Full Answer

Though there are often many factors involved with decreased balance as we age, a lot of this decline is simply due to our inactivity. This can usually be improved with training.  Start slowly with the first exercise until you become used to the new... Full Answer

Yes any form of external resistance can strengthen your muscles. Water exercises provide external resistance which the muscles of your legs must perform against. By adding implements like foam flotation devices you can increase the resistance you must... Full Answer

Many people believe that older athletes automatically need more recovery time between hard workouts, but our observations don’t confirm that. For the vast majority of athletes over 40 we don’t need to schedule any more recovery time... Full Answer

For aging athletes and adult onset exercisers, the main problems reported are acute muscle strains and chronic tendonitis. The junction between the tendon and the muscle is especially vulnerable since the structure of the muscle is less... Full Answer

A well rounded workout routine should include some form of weight bearing cardio exercise such as walking as well as resistance training and flexibility training.  Running is ok for some but is a high impact activity, which may be contraindicated... Full Answer

As an older adult, your strength training routine should work all the major muscle groups -- your legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders and arms. Muscles are strengthened by progressively increasing the weight you lift over time, so keep in... Full Answer

If you are age 65 years or older, are generally fit, and have no limiting health conditions, you should be able to follow these guidelines. However, no matter what your health status is, be sure to check in with your health care provider before... Full Answer

Staying sedentary increases your risk of falling because it lowers your balance, stamina, coordination and flexibility. Low-impact cardio exercise like walking and swimming builds stamina. Exercises that require precision and concentration improve... Full Answer

Before starting any exercise program, a healthy, older adult should consult a physician for exercise clearance as well as for specific information regarding his/her condition and ability to exercise safely. Training should begin with... Full Answer