Yesterday, we dined at a new restaurant that just opened up that specializes in homemade style cuisine. Meaning, when you order a sandwich, it doesn't come on a fancy roll, it comes on good ol' white bread. Omelettes with cheese mean the yellow square kind and not shredded like most restaurants. Homemade pies and ice tea, chicken & dumplins, etc. However, besides the home cooking, I noticed most of the patrons were seniors and many were very overweight.
It got me to thinking of ways seniors could get active. Just like anyone who struggles with adding fitness to their routine, it would have to start with an attitude adjustment. Wanting to add fitness is necessary to any new exercise regimen. Second, a visit to the doctor would benefit because I'm sure a doctor could tell seniors how to start an exercise program and what their limitations are if any.
After the doctor gives his blessing, there are a few ways seniors could incorporate fitness into their lives:
- Walking - This has got to be the easiest and simplest forms of exercising for seniors who are able bodied. I've seen seniors walking in the mall in the early mornings. That is a great way to get exercise. Walking with a buddy around the neighborhood every morning would make a big difference.
- Local Health Programs - My city provides a free local magazine that is mailed out every 3 months that provides information for healthy activities for seniors. This type of information is also usually available at any public library. These type of programs help seniors exercise and make new friends. It is a good way for seniors to stay active.
- Join a Gym - I see active seniors in my local gym and I am always happy to see them there. I think it is wonderful that they keep fitness in their lives. I've even seen them with personal trainers and that is a good idea because a good personal trainer is very informative and can teach you the proper way to use the various gym equipment without hurting yourself.
Those are just a few ideas but it would be great for seniors (particularly overweight seniors) to exercise a lot more. It is never too late to add more fitness into your life!
Exercise DVD's for Seniors:
- Chair Exercises for Seniors
- Easy Does It! A No-Impact Exercise for Seniors
- Easy Exercises Fun Lightweight Seniors and Rehab
[tags]seniors, senior fitness, overweight seniors, exercise for seniors, active seniors[/tags]
