Getting older often means taking on life at a slower pace, but it shouldn’t mean the end of fitness. Like everyone else, seniors must stay physically active to keep their bones strong, boost immunity, build muscle strength, and achieve a greater sense of wellness. But since aging can make it difficult to move around, finding ways to exercise in your golden years isn’t always easy. If you or a loved one are a senior trying to stay active, here are a few simple and effective ways to get your blood pumping.

5 Fitness Activities That Help Seniors Stay Healthy

1. Walking

Taking daily brisk walks will get the heart pumping, which improves blood circulation, prevents weight gain, and reduces inflammation. When done outdoors, it can also help seniors spend time in nature, which can improve mood and reduce the risk of depression.

2. Swimming

Swimming, water aerobics, and other aquatic activities are fantastic fitness options for older individuals. Due to the presence of water, these activities are low-impact and can help seniors stretch out sore muscles, improve flexibility, and build strength in a stress-free fashion.

3. Gardening

While some may consider gardening to be a chore, it can also be an exceptional workout. From digging to planting and raking to pulling weeds, gardening activities are varied and can work several areas of the body. In addition to enhancing your exercise routine, spending time in the garden can also help you grow healthy fruits and vegetables that can support their whole body wellness.

4. Yoga

If sore muscles and stiff joints are preventing you from enjoying your life, consider using yoga [to become more flexible and increase range of motion. Through this fitness activity, you’ll practice poses and stretches that loosen tight tissues, improve circulation to reduce inflammation, and improve flexibility to reduce the risk of future injury.

5. Seated Exercises

Wheelchairs may be necessary if you have a disability, but they shouldn’t present a barrier to fitness. There are numerous seated exercises designed to help those in wheelchairs build strength and boost personal health. Some common seated exercises include abdominal twists, knee lifts, and weighted arm raises.

When you want to get the most of your workouts as a senior, IMUA Orthopedics, Sports & Health has the resources to get you moving with confidence. These orthopedic doctors can pinpoint and treat many common issues that prevent older patients from staying active, including physical injuries and arthritis. Visit this Honolulu, HI, sports medicine facility online to learn more about these fitness services, or call (808) 521-8170 to schedule a consultation.