Senior Tips for Staying Active

Staying active sounds much easier than it is. Many seniors have difficulty starting an exercise program. Many others will start one but will not stick with it. Having some form of exercise can promote good health and provide many other health benefits for seniors. To help seniors stay on track and maintain an exercise program, the list below provides some useful tips.

1.    Seniors need to set goals for exercise and stick to them. They should start with small goals, such as exercising a few times a week. The goals should be realistic and achievable.

2.    Make a purchase! Buying a new bathroom scale can help seniors monitor their weight. Many newer scales will also display the body fat percentage. Seniors should set goals to reduce body fat. Seniors should also use the scale to keep track of their results from exercise. Most scales will have a built in memory, so seniors can monitor weight loss and gain.

3.    Do not think of exercise as a chore. It can actually be a social event if done in groups. Get together with other seniors for a walk. Socialization is linked with many health benefits, so seniors who combine exercise with a social activity will reap many benefits.

4.    Seniors do not have to engage in rigorous exercise routines. They should set short-term goals that are realistic. Most seniors will benefit from just 2 ½ hours of exercise each week.

Source: Consumer Healthday

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