Hollenbeck Palms

The Best Low-Impact Exercises for Seniors

Are you a senior looking for a way to stay active without putting too much stress on your body? If so, you may want to consider doing some low-impact exercises. A lot of these exercises can be done indoors and can help you get moving and enjoy the many benefits of staying active in your golden years!

In this article, we will discuss some of the best indoor, low-impact exercises for seniors.

Resistance Training

Resistance training is a great way to stay strong and healthy as you age. This type of training uses weight or resistance to challenge your muscles. It can be done with free weights, bands or even your own bodyweight. Resistance training is a low-impact exercise that is perfect for seniors, and it has many benefits including improved strength, bone density and balance. Some examples of resistance workouts are lunges and bicep curls.

There are many different types of resistance equipment that you can use for your workouts. If you are new to resistance training, we recommend starting with a light weight and gradually increasing the amount as you get stronger.

Other great benefits of resistance training include:

  • Increased muscle mass and strength
  • Improved balance and coordination
  • Reduced risk of falls
  • Decreased risk of injuries
Senior gentleman doing weight training

Yoga and Tai Chi

Yoga and Tai Chi are both great exercises for seniors. They are low impact, and they can be done indoors or outdoors. Yoga is a form of exercise that combines stretching and balance poses. Tai Chi is a martial art that incorporates slow movements and deep breathing. Both yoga and Tai Chi have many benefits, including improved flexibility, strength and balance. They also can help to reduce stress and anxiety.

If you are new to either yoga or Tai Chi, we recommend starting with a beginner class. This will help you to learn the basics of the exercises and get the most out of them. It may seem difficult at first, but with practice, you will be able to do these exercises correctly and reap all the benefits.

If you are looking for a low-impact exercise that is good for your mind and body, yoga or Tai Chi may be the perfect choice for you. At Hollenbeck Palms, our residents enjoy regular Tai Chi classes!

Seniors exercising outside

Water Aerobics

Another great, low-impact exercise for seniors is water aerobics. This type of exercise is done in a pool, and it incorporates cardio and strength training. It is a great way to get your heart rate up and burn calories without putting too much stress on your body. Water aerobics is a low-impact exercise that is perfect for seniors, and it has many benefits including improved strength, bone density and balance. Water aerobics can be done at most fitness centers or aquatic centers. The class usually consists of a cardio workout that includes a mix of walking, jogging and running in the water. You also will use weights and other resistance equipment to work your muscles.

Light Dancing

Dancing is a fun way to get moving and stay active. It is a low-impact exercise that can be done indoors or outdoors. There are many different types of dancing, so you can find one that suits your interests and abilities. Dancing is a great way to improve flexibility, strength and balance. It is also a fun way to socialize with friends and family. Research has shown that dancing is an activity that helps eliminate stress, decrease symptoms of depression and make you feel more energetic.

Bodyweight Exercises

The possibilities are endless when it comes to bodyweight exercises. These exercises use your own bodyweight as resistance and can be done anywhere without any equipment. Bodyweight exercises are a great way to get in a good workout, and they are perfect for seniors who want a low-impact exercise routine.

Be sure to invest in a great yoga mat to carry out these exercises, as this will help with grip and cushioning. It also helps provide back support!

Some great bodyweight exercises to try are:

  • Push ups
  • Squats
  • Crunches
  • Planks

 

Spin Bikes

Spin bikes are a great way to get a cardio workout indoors. They are low impact and can be done at any fitness level. Spin bikes provide a great cardiovascular workout, and they also help to build strength and endurance. Spin bikes cost a little bit more than traditional bikes, but they are worth the investment, as they last many years and are low maintenance.

If you are looking for a low-impact exercise that is good for your heart, try spinning on a spin bike. You will love the results!

Final Thoughts

There are many great exercises that seniors can do indoors to stay active and healthy. These are just a few of our favorites, but be sure to explore and find the exercises that work best for you. Stay active, stay healthy and enjoy your golden years!

At Hollenbeck Palms we offer a variety of engaging options to help seniors stay healthy and active. Contact us today, at 323 307 4522, to hear more about what we offer to see if we are the right fit for your family.