by Sharon Stellarini

Created on: June 27, 2008

Exercise for the older person

Typically, when a person grows older, his or her energy level decreases and consequently, he or she tends to neglect following any exercise regime at all. However, exercise is not exclusive to the young and the vigorous. On the contrary, it is vital for people to continue exercising throughout their entire life in order to maintain a happy and healthy disposition that extends well into their golden years.

Although, older people should continue to exercise just like their younger counterparts, there are specific types of activities that are better suited for elderly people. In order to prevent an older person from overexerting his or herself, it is best to do either short sessions of vigorous activities or long sessions of moderately intense workouts. Many people have the misconception that in order to get results, exercise must be strenuous. However, by doing simple and low maintenance activities every day, an older person can still enjoy health benefits.

-Walking

Walking is perhaps the most underrated form of exercise. It seems that many people believe that they must run themselves to death in order to stay healthy; on the contrary, there are numerous benefits for taking a daily promenade, especially for the older person. Walking everyday for at least thirty minutes can help maintain your weight; control blood pressure; decrease your risk of heart attack, stroke, breast and colon cancer, and type 2 diabetes; help boost good cholesterol; and help prevent against hip fractures. Walking can also improve your mood and outlook on life by preventing depression and lowering stress levels. All of these factors contribute to that fact that in the end walking helps lengthens a person's life.

-Yard Work and Gardening

Who says that you have to take time out of your schedule to exercise? Older people, who enjoy the good outdoors, can also enjoy staying in fit from doing yard work and gardening. Many people may not see these types of activities as a form of exercise, however, it is not difficult to break a sweat while pushing a lawn mower or planting magnolias. Perhaps, the fact that your mind is set on accomplishing a certain task diverts your thinking from the actual act of exercising (which, is in the end, a good thing).

-Yoga and Pilates

Yoga and Pilates are immensely popular among the younger generation; and yet, these two are perfect for older people who wish to improve muscle strength and flexibility, traits that can diminish with age. Not only

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