Everyday Strength Training For Seniors

As we age, we sometimes have more difficulty navigating the world around us. Tasks that once seemed effortless—like stepping down a curb, rising from a chair, or traversing a crowded room—can be a bit daunting.

One of the best ways to tackle this change is by building strength, which in turn promotes our balance, coordination and improves our overall wellness. There are plenty of ways to incorporate strength training into your daily routine.

Take a Class

There are many benefits to joining a fitness class, and there really is something for everyone! Maybe you love the water and prefer an aqua fitness routine. Or perhaps yoga is just the right thing to help align your body and soul. Building strength through classes like these has the added benefit of expert guidance, so you know you’re getting the most from your routine.

Working Out at Home

Improving your health can be done right from your own living room, with no equipment required. There are a wide variety of simple moves designed to improve balance and prevent falls. Some of them—like “Strike a Pose”—are pretty fun, too!  You can click here for a PDF with some recommendations for exercises to do at home, or speak to one of our fitness experts on staff for additional ideas.

Everyday Choices

Each day we’re faced with decisions that could make our life a bit easier, but might not be the best choice for our health. Instead, perhaps you can choose to walk a block or two instead of taking a ride. Maybe you’ll decide to skip a rerun of your favorite show, and use that time to take a stroll through the garden. Or instead of having something delivered, you can take transportation and go venture out into the world! Each move you make, each step you take benefits your strength.

Tai Chi at Avila (photo courtesy of Max Tiller)

The National Council on Aging lists inactivity of one of the main causes for loss of balance and gait. You can help to protect yourself from falls and other health concerns by simply staying on the move.