In generations past, exercise was believed to be mostly for the younger set. It was even believed that older people couldn't increase muscle mass or strength if they wanted to. Studies at Harvard and elsewhere have now firmly put that myth to rest.
In fact, exercise is now a recommended activity for those who are above the age of 50. For instance, as one ages, metabolism tends to become much slower, which in turn increases the amount of fat that gets accumulated in the body. This reduces the flow of blood and increases blood pressure. In addition, one's bones become less dense and more porous, which are characteristic of the condition called osteoporosis. The muscle firmness deteriorates as skin loses its tone.
Those effects can be retarded or even turned back to a degree with regular, age-appropriate exercise. The American College of Sports Medicine suggests 15-60 minutes of aerobic (oxygen-enhancing) exercise a few days per week.
The safe maximum heart rate is 220 beats minus your present age. When you are working out, you should target an increase of between 60% and 90% of this safe maximum. What cardiovascular exercises can you do? Brisk walking for 30 minutes or three 10-minute walks per day, mild jumping jacks, gentle jogging in place, swimming, dancing are some of these exercises. These exercises ensure a healthy heart and blood vessels.
Strength-building exercises help keep the muscles toned and keep weight and blood sugar levels at appropriate levels. Balance exercises can help build good leg muscles, leading to better support for joints and less likelihood of a fall. (The National Institutes of Health report 300,000 hospital admissions per year for broken hips, many of them from seniors falling.)
Most elderly people complain of aching joints and limited range of movements. This can be prevented by stretching exercises. These exercises keep muscles pliant and joints lubricated. Doing these simple exercises will greatly aid in the onset of joint-related illnesses and will assist them in their mobility and the performance of their daily activities.
One should avoid a sedentary lifestyle. Endurance exercises helps the heart and the lungs function more efficiently and effectively. Increasing metabolic rate helps the body produce the chemicals needed for proper functioning.
All these activities help raise the onset age of osteoporosis and to minimize its effects after it begins. Non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus is less likely for the physically active. Certain forms of heart disease are less likely for those who exercise moderately later in life.
There is ample evidence that moderate, regular exercise helps the psychology as well. It can decrease the severity of depression and heighten mood. The social aspects can help with the isolation that older people sometimes feel, especially as friends and loved ones are no longer part of their lives.
A word of caution for the elderly people -- always consult a doctor or trainer first before embarking on any set of physical activities. This is especially so for those who have stayed sedentary for a long time. Proper guidance is necessary in order to build up endurance and strength.
If you have a medical condition, be sure to discuss your plans with a physician and sports expert to develop an exercise routine appropriate to you. - 16083
In fact, exercise is now a recommended activity for those who are above the age of 50. For instance, as one ages, metabolism tends to become much slower, which in turn increases the amount of fat that gets accumulated in the body. This reduces the flow of blood and increases blood pressure. In addition, one's bones become less dense and more porous, which are characteristic of the condition called osteoporosis. The muscle firmness deteriorates as skin loses its tone.
Those effects can be retarded or even turned back to a degree with regular, age-appropriate exercise. The American College of Sports Medicine suggests 15-60 minutes of aerobic (oxygen-enhancing) exercise a few days per week.
The safe maximum heart rate is 220 beats minus your present age. When you are working out, you should target an increase of between 60% and 90% of this safe maximum. What cardiovascular exercises can you do? Brisk walking for 30 minutes or three 10-minute walks per day, mild jumping jacks, gentle jogging in place, swimming, dancing are some of these exercises. These exercises ensure a healthy heart and blood vessels.
Strength-building exercises help keep the muscles toned and keep weight and blood sugar levels at appropriate levels. Balance exercises can help build good leg muscles, leading to better support for joints and less likelihood of a fall. (The National Institutes of Health report 300,000 hospital admissions per year for broken hips, many of them from seniors falling.)
Most elderly people complain of aching joints and limited range of movements. This can be prevented by stretching exercises. These exercises keep muscles pliant and joints lubricated. Doing these simple exercises will greatly aid in the onset of joint-related illnesses and will assist them in their mobility and the performance of their daily activities.
One should avoid a sedentary lifestyle. Endurance exercises helps the heart and the lungs function more efficiently and effectively. Increasing metabolic rate helps the body produce the chemicals needed for proper functioning.
All these activities help raise the onset age of osteoporosis and to minimize its effects after it begins. Non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus is less likely for the physically active. Certain forms of heart disease are less likely for those who exercise moderately later in life.
There is ample evidence that moderate, regular exercise helps the psychology as well. It can decrease the severity of depression and heighten mood. The social aspects can help with the isolation that older people sometimes feel, especially as friends and loved ones are no longer part of their lives.
A word of caution for the elderly people -- always consult a doctor or trainer first before embarking on any set of physical activities. This is especially so for those who have stayed sedentary for a long time. Proper guidance is necessary in order to build up endurance and strength.
If you have a medical condition, be sure to discuss your plans with a physician and sports expert to develop an exercise routine appropriate to you. - 16083
About the Author:
Looking for fitness gyms? Hear what fitness experts have to say about your fitness regimen at http://www.homefitnessinsider.com. Pick up the latest tips and resources on managing your health and fitness while you are there.
