As many chiropractors know, a large portion of clients are part of a senior citizen demographic. Senior citizens experience pain and discomfort like anyone else, and therefore need chiropractic care too. But being and feeling health begins before seeing a chiropractor.
Because they are more likely to experience pain, it’s important for seniors to get out and about and move in order to keep their bodies functioning. A little activity each day can mean a lot for the average 65 year old.
Here are 3 tips we recommend for seniors to keep moving and keep their bodies functioning to their fullest potential.
1. Frequent Walks
To stay nimble, take frequent walks around your neighborhood. Simply walking a few blocks around the neighborhood each day can keep things functioning and keep you feeling healthy. This type of minimal exercise won’t put strain on your body, but it will help ensure you are stretching and moving on a frequent basis.
We recommend spending 30 minutes in the morning and 30 minutes at night walking. And if you’re up to it, try jogging too. It’s a bit more intense compared to walking of course, but it helps.
2. Swimming
Swimming is another great exercise seniors can use to stay in shape, feel healthy and keep their bodies functioning. Most gyms and spas will offer a senior hour early in the morning where you can jump in the pool, stretch out and swim for a while. Unlike walking or running, swimming exercises more muscles in the body and requires a little more effort from you. If you live in a 55+ community or neighborhood that has a fitness center as the front desk of the community if they will allow for senior hours early in the morning. Alternatively, try finding gyms through Google that offer a swimming pool for seniors.
3. Biking
Like running and swimming, biking is another great way to exercise if you are a senior. And we’re not talking intense mountain biking, but simple road biking around your neighborhood, a community park or your favorite cross-country trail. Road biking works a lot of key muscles in the body and will work wonders in keeping you fit. Find a local bike shop to discuss your cycling options and purchase a bike that is the most comfortable for you as there are several options.
If you need help looking for bike trails, we suggest looking on alltrails.com in your local community. From small parks to fun trails, we’re sure you’ll find what you’re looking for.
Get Moving
Exercising frequently is just the start of having a healthy, functioning body. Once you get into the routine of one of these exercise habits, the next step is to make sure you are actually feeling better. Consult with your primary care physician, family doctor or chiropractor about how you are feeling. Ideally, while walking, running, swimming or biking, you’ll feel better.
Should you have any health concerns related to these activities, you’ll want to talk with your doctor immediately. It’s important to be moving as much as you can, but don’t overwork yourself and indirectly cause yourself more pain.