Exercise for Seniors Over 70: How Classes Adapt to Every Body

Senior fitness in Waxachie, TX, combines fun, friends, and similar exercise goals. By executing safe senior workouts and following the advice of your medical team, you can cultivate a fitness-conscious lifestyle, even into your eighth decade of life. 

Did you know that over 85% of older adults in the United States do not get enough physical exercise? According to the CDC, as reported by NPR, seniors over the age of 65 struggle with fitting in enough workout time. 

Exercise for seniors over 70 in Waxahachie, TX, is easy at Morada Waxahachie. In this article, we will explore the best workout options for seniors, along with tips for a safe and effective exercise routine. 

What Is the Best Exercise Routine for a 70-Year-Old? 

Exercises for older folks should focus on low-impact movement that does not put extra stress on bones and joints. Seniors often suffer from conditions like osteoporosis or arthritis, which can turn simple falls into devastating injuries. 

Senior fitness in Waxahachie must include the following to provide the highest quality workout for participants: 

• Flexibility
• Strength
• Balance
• Cardio

What Is the Quickest Way for the Elderly to Regain Muscle Mass? 

Muscle loss is frustratingly common for seniors. Whether recovering from a serious illness or injury, or simply going too long without regular workouts, it can be difficult to regain what you have lost. 

For optimal muscle mass, you should incorporate more protein in your diet, as well as engage in resistance training. Protein and vitamin D will encourage muscle repair and growth, while resistance training, such as light weights or resistance bands, can retrain your muscles.  

Tips for Safe Senior Workouts

Safety is often a key concern for seniors when exercising. After all, many seniors have balance problems or existing medical conditions that can make exercise prohibitive. It is important to embrace caution when working out as a senior.  

Work on Mobility-Conscious Exercise 

Avoid exercises that require excessive mobility if you require assistive devices or have trouble walking. Complete workouts that do not require much forward movement, such as: 

• Yoga
• Barre
• Stretching 
• Tai-Chi 
• Stretching

Workouts like walking or running may cause more harm than good. If you would like a cardio workout that increases your heart rate and strengthens your cardiovascular system, consider an option like the elliptical machine or a stationary bike to avoid the possibility of injury. 

Listen to Your Body

It may seem tempting to push your body just a little further, especially when you are in the zone while working out. However, do not push yourself too much. You may go past your limits and end up hurting yourself. 

For instance, sweating is not necessarily problematic. When paired with other symptoms, though, like dizziness or improper balance, it can be a signal of something far more concerning. 

Take breaks when needed, even when participating in a group class. You can always jump back in once you feel like your body is ready. 

Participate in Gentle Movement Classes

Rather than high-impact movement, which can unnecessarily strain your joints, gentle movement allows you to reap the benefits of movement without excessive impact.

Gentle movement options, especially when they have a spiritual element, help participants breathe through the exercises to fully benefit from the poses. 

Try Adaptive Fitness for Seniors

Adaptive fitness is becoming more popular for seniors. Traditional exercises, such as yoga, can be adapted to seniors with alternatives such as chair yoga. Elderly folks or those with mobility problems can still participate, but in a slightly different way. 

Work With Your Healthcare Team

It is crucial to consult your healthcare team before trying any type of new exercise. A physical therapist may be able to recommend certain workouts to you that will offer the most benefit. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Foods Can Help Improve Workouts for Seniors? 

While almost every article and video about exercise advises participants to "eat healthy," few go into detail about what the phrase really means. For seniors, it can be even more confusing due to evolving nutritional needs and managing health conditions through diet and exercise. 

Some of the best ingredients to incorporate into senior diets include:

• Beans
• Salmon
• Eggs
• Sweet potato
• Bell pepper

Can an Accountability Partner Help With Exercising Regularly? 

Absolutely. An accountability partner can keep you consistently motivated and improve your individual progress. Look for an accountability partner or group with similar goals to yourself. 

For example, if you want to be able to exercise five times a week, do not link up with someone who only aims to work out twice a week. When your goals are aligned, it is much easier to keep each other accountable, since you will be working on similar plans. 

Ask others in your assisted living community if they would like to join an accountability group or sign up for accountability partners. Consider forming an exercise group if multiple people want to participate in the same activity, such as walking or a group class.  

How Can I Incorporate Exercise Into My Everyday Life?

It is not necessary to have a structured workout regimen for everything you do. There are many opportunities throughout your regular day that can aid in your exercise journey. 

If you find yourself with a few extra minutes during the day, try stretching or doing some quick balancing exercises. Take the stairs when there is an opportunity, if you are able to. Walk the long way to your next location to squeeze in more steps. 

Exercise for Seniors Over 70 at Morada Waxahachie

Exercise for seniors over 70 should focus on balance, mobility, and retaining muscle mass and joint function. With this guide, you can construct a workout regimen that is fun, invigorating, and matches your individual needs. 

At Morada Waxahachie, our dedicated staff prioritizes the health and well-being of all of our residents. Our exclusive programs through senior assisted living provide exercises tailored to seniors and many opportunities for workouts. Amenities such as homestyle, chef-prepared meals ensure you have adequate nutrition to fuel your exercise regimen. 

Are you ready to experience the difference at Morada Waxahachie? Reach out to us today to learn more about all of the services we offer, or visit our stunning campus in Waxahachie, TX, to see it in person. We can't wait to meet you!