No matter your age or fitness level, getting in a good workout has an infinite amount of benefits for your health. As a senior, you’ll want to develop an exercise routine that is comfortable and productive. Learn more about the benefits of a weekly walking schedule for seniors by referencing the guide below.

What Are the Benefits of Walking for Seniors?

1. Improves Cardiovascular Health

Regular workouts are associated with a lower risk of strokes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. Even small amounts of walking can reduce these risks significantly. Other clinical interventions found that the health benefits of walking also show improvements in clinical biomarkers, which are the molecules detected in blood and tissue. The particles found in this blood promote the release of HDL cholesterol or “good” cholesterol, which reduces blood pressure and the chance of cardiovascular issues.

2. Boosts Immune System

Walking regularly can help your immune system fight off infections. You are more likely to catch a cold if you don’t exercise compared to someone who does. Regular workouts also boost melatonin, which is the chemical released in your body to help you sleep. Walking 20 minutes a day, five times a week can reduce the sick days you take by 43% compared to those who worked out once a week or less. If you do get sick, the duration of your illness will be shorter and milder than average.

3. Reduces Disability Risk

Over 14 million older adults in the U.S. have symptomatic knee osteoarthritis - the most common form of osteoarthritis. However, a constant routine of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, often 30-40 minutes of walking, can reduce the likelihood of developing joint problems. The risk of mobility disability, such as walking too slow to cross the street safely, is reduced by 85%. Daily living disability, such as difficulty walking across the room, bathing, and dressing, is reduced by 45%. Seniors who wish to be mobile as they age should consider walking weekly to reduce the chance of developing this type of disability.

If you’re looking for a workout program that can be used at home or in a senior care facility, contact RBM Wellness in Fredericktown, MO. This company offers health and wellness activities over a 12-month period that can be repeated annually. The benefits of these “Rebuild Me” programs include mental and physical health and wellness, and the reduced likelihood of falls. The staff at RBM Wellness seek to improve the overall quality of life for you and your loved ones. Call (573) 783-1519 today to speak with a representative. You can learn more about their company by connecting with them on their Facebook and Youtube pages. Visit their website for more information.