Starting on a fitness journey as a senior citizen can really instill many questions in your mind, especially if you’ve been inactive for a while. However, it’s never too late to start improving your health and well-being through exercise. Here’s a great guide to help you ease into a fitness routine safely and effectively:

1. **Consult Your Doctor**: Before starting any new exercise regimen, it’s extremely important to speak with your healthcare provider, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions.

2. **Set Realistic Goals**: Begin with clear, achievable goals. Whether it’s walking for 10 minutes a day or doing chair yoga, setting attainable objectives will help keep you motivated.

3. **Start Slowly**: Ease into exercise to avoid overexertion and injury. Gradually increase the time and intensity of your workouts.

4. **Focus on Flexibility**: Make sure stretching or yoga is added into your routine to improve flexibility and reduce the risk of injury.

5. **Strength Training**: Use light weights or resistance bands to maintain or increase muscle mass, which naturally declines with age. Strength training also supports joint health and balance.

6. **Low-Impact Cardio**: Engage in low-impact cardiovascular activities such as walking, swimming, or cycling. These exercises are easier on your joints and can help improve heart health.

7. **Balance Exercises**: Simple balance exercises can help prevent falls by improving your stability and coordination.

8. **Stay Hydrated**: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercise to stay hydrated, especially as older adults may have a diminished sense of thirst.

9. **Join a Class**: Participate in senior fitness classes offered by community centers or gyms. These classes can provide social support and tailored exercises.

10. **Incorporate Daily Movement**: Look for opportunities to move throughout your day, such as gardening, taking the stairs, or stretching during TV commercials. We do a lot of walking in place.

11. **Use Technology**: Fitness trackers or smartphone apps can help monitor your progress, set reminders, and for me, they keep me motivated and kinda hold me accountable.

12. **Listen to Your Body**: Pay attention to your body’s signals. Rest when needed and avoid pushing through pain.

13. **Stay Consistent**: Consistency is key. Try to make exercise a regular part of your daily routine, even if it’s just a short walk.  But stay on target!

14. **Seek Support**: Enlist a friend, family member, or professional trainer who can encourage you and keep you accountable.

15. **Celebrate Achievements**: Recognize and celebrate your progress, no matter how small. This can help maintain your motivation and commitment to your fitness journey.

 

Starting a fitness routine as a senior citizen is a great step towards a healthier lifestyle. By approaching exercise with patience, planning, and positivity, you can safely enjoy the numerous benefits that physical activity offers. Remember, the best exercise is the one that you enjoy and can perform consistently, so find activities that bring you joy and fit your lifestyle.

START TODAY!  Baby steps are better than no steps!!

Remember,  begin your life changing trip and encourage others to join you also. So together “We Will Finish Strong”