Summer is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the sunshine. But for older people in an MS independent living home, exercising in the heat can be challenging. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 15 senior summer exercising tips to help you stay active and safe.
From warming up to doing ball exercises, these tips will help you make the most of your summer workouts. Whether you prefer to exercise indoors or outdoors, there are plenty of options to choose from that will help you maintain your health and well-being throughout the summer months.
Start with a Warm-Up
Before you begin any physical activity, it is important to warm up your muscles to prevent injury. You can do a few stretches or light movements to get your blood flowing and loosen up your muscles. This can include simple activities like marching in place, arm circles, or leg swings.
Use Resistance Bands
Resistance bands are a great way to build strength and flexibility without having to lift heavy weights. They are lightweight, easy to use, and can be adjusted to fit any fitness level. You can use them to do exercises like bicep curls, overhead presses, or leg lifts.
Take a Walk
Walking is a low-impact exercise that is easy on the joints and can be done anywhere, including in your MS independent living home. You can walk around your house or apartment, or take a stroll outside if the weather permits. Walking can help improve cardiovascular health, reduce stress, and boost mood.
Try Chair Exercises
If you have mobility issues or balance problems, chair exercises can be a great option. You can do a variety of exercises while sitting in a chair, including arm circles, leg lifts, and seated marches. Chair exercises can help improve flexibility, balance, and strength.
Do Yoga
Yoga is a great way to improve flexibility, strength, and balance. There are many yoga poses that can be done in a chair or using a wall for support, making it accessible for aging folks with mobility issues. Yoga can also help reduce stress and improve mental well-being.
Swim or Do Water Aerobics
Swimming and water aerobics are excellent low-impact exercises that are easy on the joints. If you have access to a pool, you can do a variety of exercises, including swimming laps, water walking, or water aerobics. Water exercise can help improve cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and flexibility.
Use Hand Weights
Hand weights are another great option for building strength and endurance. They come in a variety of weights and sizes, so you can choose the ones that work best for you. You can use hand weights to do exercises like bicep curls, shoulder presses, or tricep extensions.
Dance
Dancing is a fun and enjoyable way to get exercise. You can put on your favorite music and dance around your living room or try a dance workout video. Dancing can help improve cardiovascular health, balance, and coordination.
Play Games
Games can be a great way to get exercise and socialize at the same time. You can play games like Wii Sports or use a fitness tracker to compete with friends and family. Games can help improve cardiovascular health, coordination, and mental well-being.
Take Breaks
It is important to listen to your body and take breaks when needed. If you feel tired or experience pain, take a break and rest. You can resume your exercise routine when you feel ready. Remember to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water throughout your workout.
Use Resistance Bands
Resistance bands are a simple and effective way to build strength and improve your range of motion. You can use resistance bands to do a variety of exercises, such as bicep curls, chest presses, and leg extensions. Resistance bands are lightweight and easy to store, making them a great exercise tool for aging folks.
Do Tai Chi
Tai chi is a gentle and low-impact form of exercise that can help improve your balance, flexibility, and coordination. Tai chi involves a series of slow, flowing movements that are easy on the joints and can be done from a standing or seated position. There are many online tai chi classes and tutorials available for aging folks.
Go for a Bike Ride
Biking is a great way to get exercise and enjoy the outdoors. If you have a stationary bike, you can use it to get a workout from the comfort of your MS independent living home. If you prefer to bike outside, be sure to wear a helmet and follow all traffic laws.
Try Pilates
Pilates is a low-impact form of exercise that can help improve your strength, flexibility, and posture. Pilates involves a series of controlled movements that target specific muscles and can be done from a mat or using specialized equipment. There are many online Pilates classes and tutorials available for older adults.
Use an Exercise Ball
An exercise ball, also known as a stability ball, is a great tool for aging folks living in independent living communities. You can use an exercise ball to do a variety of exercises, such as squats, hamstring curls, and core exercises. Using an exercise ball can help improve your balance, stability, and strength. There are many online tutorials and classes available that focus on using an exercise ball for exercise.
Time to Embrace Summer Exercises
There are many ways for aging folks to stay active and healthy, even when staying in their MS independent living home. By incorporating these fifteen summer exercising tips into your routine, you can improve your physical and mental health, as well as maintain your independence and quality of life. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise routine, and start slowly and gradually increase your activity level as you become more comfortable.
