the ability to complete basic daily tasks, developing muscle hypertrophy, improving body composition, increasing strength, and enhancing balance and stability.Resistive training is characterized by short, difficult exercises with resistance that aims to increase muscular strength and endurance. The effects of strength training prevent the development of sarcopenia Evans et al. 3 and promote hypertrophy in geriatric participants Porter. 4 Resistance training is beneficial to geriatric individuals because weight lifting can help counter the typical issues that surface as adults age; such as decreased range of motion, reduced strength, and a lack of stability. Resistive training has the ability to improve function, reduce pain, and increase strength in people with osteoarthritis Latham et al. 5 Women over the age of 80years old have shown a 40% reduced chance of falling after engaging in strength and balance exercises CDC. 6Limited mobility and a lack of strength and balance in movements associated with basic daily tasks can prevent the completion of essential activities such as going to the grocery store, getting into and out of a car, sweeping, or showering Fleck et al. 7 The following exercises can help senior individuals increase health, improve balance and body composition, and maintain independence.
The six exercises senior adults should be doing regularly
Aerobic trainingThis can be as simple as a walk or a jog, and can be done at the beginning of a workout to warm-up and prepare the body for resistive exercise.
SquatsWith or without weights, a squat may be the most effective way to strengthen legs to get out of a chair, exit a car, and stand up.
Bicep curlsHaving strong biceps helps strengthen arms to complete household tasks like carrying laundry and shopping bags.
Military pressPossessing the ability to raise items overhead is essential to basic daily tasks such as getting dressed, reaching high shelves, and accessing high cabinet and freezer doors.