As we age, and it doesn’t matter how old you are right now, physical activity remains just as important for maintaining overall health, mobility, and independence. However, for many people, the thought of heading to a gym or joining an exercise class can seem daunting especially if you’ve never really done it before.
Fortunately, there are numerous ways to stay active without leaving the comfort of your home. From chair exercises to virtual workouts, here are some easy and effective at-home workout options that anyone can do at home.
- Chair Exercises
For anyone who may have limited mobility or balance concerns, chair exercises are a fantastic option. Many movements can be adapted to seated positions, allowing you to work on flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular fitness without the risk of falls or injury. Some simple chair exercises include:
Seated leg lifts: Sit tall in a sturdy chair with your feet flat on the floor. Lift one leg at a time, straightening it out in front of you, and then lower it back down. Repeat for 10-15 reps on each leg.
Chair squats: Stand in front of a sturdy chair with your feet hip-width apart. Slowly lower yourself down into a sitting position, tapping your bottom on the chair, and then stand back up. Repeat for 10-15 reps.
Seated marches: Sit tall in a chair with your feet flat on the floor. Lift one knee up towards your chest and then lower it back down. Repeat on the other side. Continue alternating legs for 10-15 reps on each side. - Walks and Strolls
Walking is one of the simplest and most effective forms of exercise, and it can easily be done at home. If you have a safe and flat area in your home, such as a hallway or large living room, you can take short walks or strolls to get your steps in. Using a walker or cane for added stability is perfectly acceptable. Aim for at least 30 minutes of walking each day, and if you need to, break it up into shorter sessions throughout the day. - Yoga and Stretching
Yoga and stretching exercises can help improve flexibility, balance, and posture, making them ideal for seniors. Many yoga poses can be modified to suit your abilities, and you can use a chair or wall for support as needed. If you’re new to yoga, consider starting with a gentle or chair yoga class, which focuses on simple, seated poses. Stretching exercises can also be done in bed before getting up in the morning or before going to sleep at night. - Virtual Workouts
With the rise of technology, there are now countless virtual workout options available for seniors. Many fitness apps and YouTube channels offer beginner-friendly workouts that you can do at home with minimal equipment. Some popular options include:
The SilverSneakers program, which offers virtual workouts specifically designed for seniors.
HASfit’s low-impact workouts for seniors on YouTube.
The National Institute on Aging’s Go4Life program, which offers free online exercise videos for older adults. - Dance
Dancing is not only a fun way to stay active, but it also provides numerous health benefits for seniors, including improved cardiovascular health, balance, and mood. You can dance to your favorite music in the comfort of your living room, or look for virtual dance classes online. Consider inviting a friend or family member to join you for added motivation and enjoyment.
Staying active is crucial for anyone to maintain their health and independence as they age and ther earlier you start in life, the greater the long term benefits. Fortunately, there are numerous easy and effective ways to work out at home, from chair exercises to virtual workouts and everything in between.
All of the recommendations here, while all good ideas, are certainly not the only ways to exercise easily. There is a lot of information available on the internet that can supplement what we’ve printed here.
The important thing is to get started and don’t stop. You won’t regret it. And remember to consult with your doctor before starting any new exercise routine, especially if you have any health concerns. —John Williams
Next month’s column will focus on more ways to exercise without lots of equipment or a gym.