The notion that exercise is good for you is something everyone just always seems to have known. Somehow, though, older adults have been left out of the picture - until recently. A clear new picture is emerging from research: Older people of all ages and physical conditions have very much to gain from exercise and from staying physically active. They also have very much to lose if they become physically inactive - some degree of health and ability, for example.

 

Fact: More than two-thirds of older adults don't engage in regular physical activity.

Fact: Many people 90 and older who have become physically frail from inactivity can more than double their strength through simple exercises in a fairly short time. For some, that can mean the difference between being able to get up from a chair by themselves or having to remain seated until someone is available to help them get up. In one study, some people 80 and older were able to progress from using walkers to using canes after doing simple muscle-building exercises for just 10 weeks.

 

Solution: Endurance activities increase heart rate and breathing for extended periods of time. They improve the health of the heart, lungs, and circulatory system, and have been shown to help prevent or delay some diseases. Strength exercises make older adults strong enough to do the things they need to do and the things they like to do. Balance exercises help prevent falls, a major cause of disability in older adults. Stretching helps keep the body limber and flexible.

 

 

You may mix & match the different sections listed above depending on how much time you have and how you are feeling each day. In addition, you will see three different levels for each exercise, so you will be able to "customize" this workout to meet your particular needs. You'll love the upbeat encouragement and helpful cues, and you will be amazed at how quickly you progress! Order now.

 

Equipment Needed: (Not Included)
A sturdy chair with no arms
2-5 lb. weights for Strength Training
A small pillow (optional)

 

Instruction by Sue Grant:
Sue is a Certified Master Instructor for FallProof, an internationally recognized Balance and Mobility training program that is also certified by the American Council on Exercise and the Arthritis Foundation. Sue holds a Professional Certificate in Fitness Instruction and in Exercise Science from UC San Diego, specializing in both Personal Training and Group Fitness Instruction. She is a certified Older Adult Fitness Specialist. Most importantly, her lifelong love for fitness is contagious. She is passionate about helping older adults stay fit and active at any age.