When it comes to exercising, age is just a number. Everyone needs to exercise and that’s exactly what super-agers do.
Unfortunately, many people feel that as they get older, exercising is not designed for them. Health problems related to aging may also drive the point home to them that the elderly should not be engaging in certain physical activities. However, super-agers are the people who continue to exercise and it can show us that regular physical exercise could be one of the big keys to their longevity.
Benefits of Exercise for Seniors
Regardless of age, exercise has a plethora of health benefits that anyone can enjoy. As we age, maintaining physical activity becomes even more crucial. Whether through workout routines or simply by seeking ways to increase physical activity naturally, here are some of the benefits super-agers receive through exercise.
Promotes Flexibility and Mobility
One of the main reasons seniors no longer exercise is that they feel they are stiffer and have no flexibility or mobility. However, exercise is the perfect way to build muscle and prevent atrophy, which can decrease mobility. Plus, exercise can improve flexibility, balance, and coordination, and reduce the risk of accidents. Exercise, particularly strength training, can also help ease symptoms of degenerative conditions, such as arthritis.
Lowers Risk of Developing Illness
Regular physical exercise can help strengthen the body and lower the risk of illness. This is because exercise promotes better blood circulation, healthy blood pressure levels, lower blood sugar levels, and higher bone density. This makes them less susceptible to developing chronic illnesses such as Alzheimer’s, heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis. Regular exercise is also important in helping to strengthen the immune system.
Improves Sleep
Sleep is a vital component regardless of age. Everyone needs quality sleep to live a healthy, long life. However, the quality of our sleep tends to decrease as we age. Engaging in physical activities regularly can help improve sleep quality. Exerting energy throughout the day can help to fall asleep faster. It can also allow for a night of deeper sleep, enabling the exertion of more energy the next day. That means more exercise for better health!
Boosts Mood
Aside from physical benefits, there are also mental or emotional health advantages to exercising regularly. Engaging in physical activities can boost your mood, as exercise increases the production of endorphins or your ‘happy hormones.’ It can also help reduce feelings of despair, isolation, and anxiety.
Improves Cognitive Function
One way to fight memory loss and cognitive decline is through exercise. Physical activities can help boost oxygen and blood flow to the brain, helping in various cognitive functions, such as creativity and recalling details.
Starting Exercise in Your Later Years
Being new to exercising can be intimidating for anyone, especially older adults. However, increasing your physical activities doesn’t have to be difficult.
Here are some tips to get you started exercising so that you too can become a super-ager:
- Start Slow – Avoid overly-strenuous exercises that can be difficult for beginners. Set goals that are realistic and work your way up.
- Find the Right Exercise – Try different sporting activities, dancing, or simple activities such as walking and gardening. The key here is to keep moving throughout the day.
- Exercise with Friends – Exercising with a group is one way to keep going. It helps to keep you motivated.
- Enjoy Nature – Take advantage of the outdoors. Being outside in the fresh air and sunshine has many physical and mental health benefits. You don’t have to go hiking in the wilderness, you can go for a walk in a park or around your streets. Walking in the sunshine is possibly one of the best exercises you can do for the rest of your life.
Super-agers prove that exercising is not just for the young. Anyone, at any age, can start living an active lifestyle. All it takes is one step to commit to a long and healthy life.
