by David Stillwagon

Created on: May 11, 2010

In the past when the subject of exercising came up for senior citizens the choices were usually walking, water aerobics and if you felt like taking a chance you might get on a bike. Those exercises are good and they certainly will help your heart rate but what about your muscles? Wouldn’t you like to feel stronger or maybe regain some of that strength you had when you were younger? It is definitely possible because strength training is for seniors as well as for younger folks.

Do you find that it is difficult to do the same chores that you used to do when you were younger? Lifting the smallest of things or even sweeping a broom seems to make your arms and legs sore. That is certainly another reason for strength training. You will be amazed at how quickly you will see the difference in your strength and confidence after just a few weeks of strength training. 

Why do you need strength exercises? Isn’t walking enough? Walking is great for your heart. It is one of the best aerobic exercises that you can do. But it doesn’t have any effect on your muscles, which need work more than ever when you get older. When we age we lose bone and muscle mass. Strength training can slow that down. Strength training can also help if you have arthritis. Stronger muscles are able to support and protect joints that can be affected by arthritis. 

Whether you are young or old the most important muscles to strengthen are your core muscles. The core muscles are your stomach muscles, back muscles and hips. This area is basically where all movement comes from so the stronger the better. Using a stability ball you are able to work the abdomen and the back and at the same time improve your balance. 

What ever form of strength or resistance exercises that you choose, make sure that you increase the weight as you go. This is called progressive strength training. This is vital because your muscles need to be challenged especially after they get used to lifting a certain amount of weight. By increasing the weight the muscles become larger and stronger. The key to progressive strength training especially if you are older is to gradually increase the weight. Straining your self will only set you back on your quest for a stronger body. 

The last thing to remember is always consult a doctor before starting any exercise program, whether it is aerobic or strength training.

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