As you grow older, an active lifestyle is important to ward off illness and be healthy. Exercise is about adding more movement and activity to your life, even in small ways. Whether you are generally healthy or are managing an illness even if you are house bound there are many easy ways to get your body moving and improve your health.
Regular physical activity lowers your risk for a variety of conditions, including Alzheimer’s and dementia. It also prevents loss of bone mass and improves balance, actually reducing your risk of falling sick. Research also shows that a sedentary life style is unhealthy for adult.
Cardiovascular exercise are walking, cycling, swimming or dancing on most days a week for at least 30 minutes in short bouts or at a stretch. Strength training are push ups, crunches, squats, dumbbell or theraband exercises. Other exercises like yoga is for flexibility and balance.
Committing to a routine of physical activity is one of the healthiest decision you can make. Before you get moving though, consider hoe best to be safe.
Get medical clearance from your doctor before starting an exercise program, especially if you have a preexisting condition. Ask if there are any activities you should avoid.
Consider your health condition. For example, diabetics may need to adjust the timing of medication and meal plans when setting an exercise schedule.
Start slow. If you haven’t been active in awhile, it can be harmful to go “all out.” Instead, build up your exercise program little by little. Prevent crash and burn fatigue by warming up, cooling down and keeping water handy.
Recognize problems. Exercise should never hurt or make you feel lousy. Stop exercising immediately and call your doctor if you feel dizzy or short of breath, develop chest pain or pressure, break out in a cold sweat, or experience pain.
You are never told to exercise!
