Physical activities for the elderly are essential in order not to leave the body still
Over the years, the body feels the effects of fatigue, but this and other symptoms of aging can be reduced with physical activity for the elderly. Exercises help prevent risks that arise in this stage, such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s and sarcopenia, which is the gross loss of muscle mass.
Thinking about it, Ronaldo Godoi, physical educator and founder of the Red Fitness network, lists a series of activities that can and must be carried out by the elderly in the best phase of life.
“It is important to remember that, in order to start any physical activity, regardless of age group, it is always good to consult a doctor and have a complete check-up to find out if you have any type of injury, limitation or restriction. This way, the physical educator can help you better guide to enjoy and benefit from all the advantages of each exercise”, explains the specialist.
4 PERFECT PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES FOR SENIORS
BODYBUILDING
Seniors can’t do bodybuilding, right? Mistaken!
Much more than building muscle mass, training helps strengthen ligaments, tendons and joints throughout the body, contributing to stability and movement control. “Many older people come to the gym thinking they can only do those specific classes for seniors, but bodybuilding is essential for gaining physical strength. It also contributes to confidence and safety in carrying out daily activities, giving more independence,” emphasizes Godoi.
YOGA
Yoga is an excellent choice!
The exercise is suitable for anyone, as it has multiple modalities and is considered a low-impact activity with little risk of injury. “We have chosen yoga as part of the activities in our gyms because it combines physical resistance exercises with balance and flexibility exercises. And this is really great for good physical conditioning and body awareness,” explains Ronaldo. Furthermore, the practice of breathing, one of the pillars of yoga, contributes to the reduction of stress.
DANCE
Senior dance classes aren’t just ballroom dancing.
Contrary to what many think, the practice of modalities such as Zumba, Fitdance, Dance+, Rhythms and others can be practiced by all ages, as each student puts in the intensity that the body allows, respecting its limits. Dance stimulates not only the movement of the body, but all the senses, such as touch, sight and hearing, as well as improving the emotions and the cognitive and motor system.
ON FOOT
A walk on the treadmill is always welcome!
It is one of the best exercises for seniors, as it provides energy, prevents loss of lean mass, and ensures optimal health of the cardiovascular system. “Even the basics always work! To start practicing, start with light walks of 15-20 minutes, once or twice a week, and avoid going beyond your energy capacity so as not to fatigue and lose muscle mass. Then you can increase the frequency, always respecting the limits of the body”, advises Ronaldo Godoy.
“It is normal that as we get older we lose some of the vigor and energy we felt when we were young, this is due to hormonal changes and loss of muscle mass. But keeping the body and mind working with the practice of physical activities is important at every stage of life! In addition, group practices help social interaction,” adds the physical educator.
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Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
