I know I just gave my age away, how many of you remember the good ole’ days when we played in the street (quiet streets) and had to go home when the streetlights came on? As adults, and especially those of us “senior” adults, performing exercise on a regular basis can be challenging. Truth be told, we must prioritize and “choose” to be active. Instead of exercise let’s call it “movement”.
How to get started:
1. Before beginning any exercise program talk with your health care provider.
2. Set goals - easy, achievable goals. This week I will walk a mile a day for 3 days. Then you can build upon that foundation.
3. Find a movement buddy to support each other.
4. Make it fun!
5. Be active however and wherever you can.
American College of Sports Medicine and CDC recommendation: • All healthy adults aged 18–65 years should participate in moderate intensity aerobic physical activity for a minimum of 30 minutes on five days per week, or vigorous intensity aerobic activity for a minimum of 20 minutes on three days per week. • Above 65 years: Same as adults or be as active as abilities and health conditions allow, and include balance training and combination activities (strength and aerobic training together) • Every adult should perform activities that maintain or increase muscular strength and endurance for a minimum of two days per week.
Benefits of regular physical activity:
• Reduces your risk of falling or having a fall-related injury
• Helps you stay independent
• Keeps your brain healthy by reducing your risk of developing dementia/Alzheimer’s and helps improve your thinking
• Lowers your risk of developing new chronic health problems (such as diabetes, high blood pressure or heart disease) and reduces their risk of getting worse; and
• Decreases your risk of getting several types of cancer and helps prevent them from coming back.
Barbara Hohenstein is a Registered Nurse, Certified Personal Trainer (ACSM), Certified Health Coach (Dr. Sears Wellness Institute) and Certified Running Coach (RRCA). She leads a HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) class at Bridgewater, Little River M-W-F at 7am called “Early Bird Fitness”. 1 ACSM, Exercise is Medicine™
Learn about Bridgewater’s amazing Fitness Center that is open to all residents here!
