Functional Fitness for over 50s
Functional Fitness for over 50s
A recent study found Baby Boomers are the nation’s most active generation, racking up 364 hours of physical activity each year, reveals new research commissioned by Fitness Australia.
Fitness Australia CEO, Barrie Elvish, said that while the majority of Baby Boomers are getting physically active to improve their health, confidence is also a huge driver. “Our research found that for half of older Australians a key benefit of being active is proving to themselves that they can still do it. As a Baby Boomer myself, it is extremely gratifying to see this generation embracing physical activity, challenging themselves and enjoying the physical, mental and social benefits.”
Tip from Annette – I am in this age group, and exercise has always been a big part of my life. If you are already exercising keep it going, and don’t ever let anyone let you say you are too old to do it.
Here are some ideas to help you get started and succeed:
Every bit of movement throughout the day helps, from taking the stairs instead of the elevator, to adding a 30 minute walk to your day, gardening, not sitting down too much through the day. No matter what your age, if you are a beginner you should start with small amounts and build up to the recommended amount over time.
Find activities you like, and try new things all the time – sports, games, or different classes. You will always keep going if it is something you enjoy. Join an exercise class or do activities outdoors or if you are busy get yourself an online trainer that can help you in your own time …
Choose activities that use those larger muscle groups and use more energy – walking, jogging, aerobics, step, hiking, climbing stairs, dancing and tennis. Some lower impact activities – rowing, swimming, kayaking, and aqua-aerobics.
To increase strength, tone, power, mass and endurance in muscle and is important for all stages in life. Strength training can be done by using hand weights, resistance bands, or body weight exercises. We need to do strength exercises at least 2 times per week and we are now seeing the importance of doing power exercises as these quicker exercises help us to climb stairs, get out of chairs and move quickly if needed.
As we age we become less flexible, it is also important to maintain mobility, balance, gait, posture awareness, and flexibility around the joints to reduce the risk of falls. Activity like Yoga and Tai Chi are great programs to assist as well
Research has shown that more than half of Australians are not exercising enough and I want to help as many people as I can to keep moving for a better quality of life. I will soon be offering online training to assist baby boomers and seniors improve their physical wellbeing.
Click here for my FREE Seated and Standing Low Intensity Exercises for Beginners, Seniors, and Baby Boomers, Rowing videos, Outdoor Exercise options, and some Modified Tai Chi, Qi Gong and Seated Yoga, and Meditation.
I recommend you check with your GP before starting an exercise program in case you have any underlying conditions.