by Wayne Harrigan

Created on: December 01, 2010

The importance of keeping fit has reached the masses…. but it doesn’t mean it has been embraced by everyone! Seniors realize that exercise plays a vital role in feeling well, and that if you can move it, move it! Age has little to do with it. 

So how does one keep fit? Here are a few tips. If you like to walk, this is a great exercise. Walking outdoors is healthy and enjoyable- it is easy to combine a walk with observing nature. Take along your camera or your dog. If you can find a buddy to walk with, the benefits are immediately doubled. Have you ever considered a personal challenge? How about walking fifty miles a month? It’s easier that you think.  Do you belong to a gym? If you can find one close by, it’s worth a look. During the day when people have gone to work, often seniors can take advantage of the facilities. 

Some gyms even offer special rates if you promise to avoid evenings and weekends. What can you do at a gym? Everyone can try the treadmill and the bike. You can try a few of the weights and have someone there offer advice about what an appropriate program would be. Activities which will help keep bones strong include weight bearing ones- walking, jogging, tennis. It is a good idea to keep an eye on your blood pressure, sugar level, cholesterol. Your family doctor will be a willing participant.

Water exercises appeal to many. This can include aquacizes where you actually take part in a class, or it can mean doing a few laps at the neighborhood pool on a regular basis. Some gyms have therapy pools where you can relax and recover from any exercise you do. 

Some people feel that as you age, you should restrict the activities you do. Unless you have an injury or physical condition, this is unlikely. It is so easy to remain inactive and have muscle mass loss- it should be a personal decision to resist this. 

Activities that help with balance are very helpful to the older adult. Tai chi is a group activity which many seniors enjoy. Even standing on one leg from time to time helps. Believe me!

All of the above will help reduce the minor aches and pains we all endure. You know your body best- keep in tune with fatigue or any pain which may be an alert to change or restrict a certain activity. 

Activity should be an integral part of aging- and healthy aging is everyone’s goal.

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