Staying active is crucial for older adults as it can significantly improve overall health and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Whether you're a seasoned fitness enthusiast or just getting started, incorporating these recommendations into your routine will help you maintain optimal wellness and vitality. Remember, if you have any concerns or medical conditions, it's essential to consult with your GP before embarking on a new exercise regime.
Daily Activity
To experience the benefits of physical activity, aim to engage in some form of exercise every day, even if it's light in intensity. Consistency is key. Regular activity will not only enhance your wellbeing but also help you break free from a sedentary lifestyle.
Light activity
This involves moving, rather than sitting. Incorporate several of the following into your daily routine:
Walking slowly
Getting up to make a cup of tea
Vacuuming
Making the bed.
Moderate activity
This is activity that increases your heart rate, such as walking for health, pushing a lawnmower, hiking, dance for fitness, tennis and cycling. Older adults need 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity a week, broken up into slots. For example, you could do just over 20 minutes every day, or 30 minutes on 5 days of the week.
Vigorous activity
This level of activity is a challenge for your cardiovascular system and will push you physically. This type of exercise can include aerobics, running, and cycling uphill. Please seek advice from a medical expert before starting a new, vigorous exercise plan.
Muscle strengthening
We lose muscle mass as we age, but there are exercises that can help maintain it. This type of exercise can help us with overall health, as well as reducing the risk of falls. Resistance exercises should be part of a larger routine that also incorporates cardiovascular exercise. Resistance exercise can include using free weights, working out with resistance bands, or even carrying shopping bags.
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