Exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, no matter what your age or physical condition. A healthy lifestyle that includes exercise is especially important for seniors. Exercise can help maintain your body’s mobility and joint movement, along with strengthening muscles and slowing down negative effects of aging. Workouts will be different for a senior than they will for say, a 25-year-old, so there will be differences in the kinds of fitness equipment used. Here is a list of some of the best fitness equipment for the elderly, along with some other fitness tips.
Stationary Bikes
Stationary bikes usually come in two different types: a traditional variety with a regular bike seat, and a recumbent model which has a regular-looking seat. Recumbent model stationary bikes are great for seniors because they are easy to mount and dismount, and provide the same great cardio workout that a traditional stationary bike gives. The recumbent seat also provides good back support and comfort. Stationary bikes are a great option because they provide a low-impact workout, good for people with arthritis or joint pain.
Treadmills
Treadmills are perfect for seniors who love the exercise of a walk. Treadmills are often programmable to copy an outdoor terrain, while allowing seniors to avoid heat, traffic and other obstacles that can get in the way of walking exercise.
Elliptical Machines
Elliptical machines are another great, low-impact option for seniors. They allow users to get a good walking workout while minimizing stress on hips, knees and the back. Many also come with handles and armrests to give extra stability. Correct posture is very important to remember when using an elliptical. Be sure to keep your head up and shoulders back, and don’t lean on the handrails.
Weight Machines
Working out with weights is an important part of an exercise regimen, and weight machines are a very good choice for the elderly. Weight machines can help users isolate particular muscles and are generally safer to use than free standing weights and dumbbells. Seniors can sometimes lose their balance while working with free weights, so weight machines are the better option.
Benefits of Indoor Exercise
Indoor exercise is a great option for seniors because variables like heat, bad weather and other obstacles are eliminated. Workouts are made extra safe for seniors when they take place in climate-controlled rooms.