Unconventional Workout Routines for Independent Seniors
We can’t say it enough, the key to staying independent as you age is to keep moving! Staying active and fit as a senior has so many proven benefits to both your physical and mental health. Don’t worry, you don’t need to run 5 miles every day to unlock these advantages. There are much simpler, and maybe less traditional ways for older adults to work out. If you or a loved one are looking for motivation to stay fit, our senior activity coordinators in Pitman, NJ have put together a list of unconventional workouts for older adults.
- Dancing is a great option for seniors to get a good cardio workout. Put on your favorite music and dance your heart out! If standing too long is an issue, you can always modify it by sitting in a chair and dancing with your upper half. Get your hands above your head and if possible, tap your legs to the beat. At Pitman we call this “Chair Dancing” and it is always a well-attended activity. Remember to always modify your movement or take a break if needed. If you’re in pain that means something is wrong, so stop and ask for help.
- Yoga is another great way to get your exercise in. There’s an endless amount of videos online to guide you through the process. Yoga is very gentle on the body and great for the mind. Yoga preaches that it is something anyone can do, so there is a modification for almost every pose. It is a slower practice, which is easier on your heart and breathing, but it still gives a great workout. Chair yoga is also an option if there is too much pressure on your legs.
- Golf is another great exercise for seniors but you have to promise not to take the golf cart to each hole! Sure, some of them are very far apart so a golf cart ride is necessary, but take any opportunity you can get to walk.
- We admit this next one isn’t exactly unconventional but it has many benefits and can be done almost anywhere. Walk, walk, walk. Make it a part of your daily routine to take a walk. If the weather is nice take your walk outside. Besides the walking itself, it’s beneficial to get fresh air and some Vitamin D. While you’re walking be conscious of your arms and if possible, move your arms in rhythm with your walk. This slight addition makes it a full-body exercise. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even hold light weights on your walk! Getting out of your chair and doing it is the hardest part of taking a walk but folks are universally happy they did it afterward. You can do it!
Assisted living at UMC Pitman
Whatever exercise you choose, it’s important for your physical and mental health to keep your body moving. Make sure you get at least 30 minutes of movement a day to stay in your best shape, mentally and physically. This does not have to be all at once, you can do fifteen minutes of a movement twice a day if that’s easier for you. At UMC at Pitman, exercise opportunities are scheduled regularly so you never have to worry about getting your workout in – you just have to show up and move it! And the best part is you get to do it with all your new friends.
If you think Pitman might be the right home for you or your loved one, contact us today!
Also, check out the website for more information – https://umcommunities.org/pitman/
