The COVID-19 pandemic is limiting many ways of traditional life, including access to senior centers, gyms, fitness centers, and other places to get some exercise days.
It’s perhaps more important than ever before to stay active during this uncertain time. Without traditional ways of exercising, check out these six ways seniors can stay active throughout the pandemic and beyond.
Start stretching
Stretching loosens up muscles and keeps them strong and healthy, and aligns joints correctly to maximize motion. Without good stretching, the muscles shorten and become tight, limiting your range of motion. This increases the risk of joint pain, strains, and muscle damage.
Take the stairs
It might seem silly, but just taking the stairs instead of hopping into an elevator or lift can work wonders on your health. Just some of the benefits include:
- It helps you lose weight.
- It improves heart health
- It increases muscle strength
- It builds endurance
- It improves mental health
Walk outside for 15 minutes
Did you know that walking gives immediate cognitive and physical benefits to those who walk for as little as 15 minutes? Benefits include a boost to your mental health and weight loss goals and better sleep. The best part of walking is that you can do it right outside your front door. Bring a buddy.
Do yard work
It’s a beautiful day outside; take advantage of it! Mow the lawn, rake some leaves during the trees’ autumnal shedding, clean up the garage a little bit, or finally get started on that landscaping project. Get the heart pumping by enhancing your house or yard.
Watch and walk
Do you watch a lot of TV, sitting down for the majority of the day?
Don’t become stagnant. Get up at least one time every hour and walk throughout your home while watching the TV for at least five minutes. Once you are done, get comfortable on the couch once again.
Get a pet
Pets can make all the difference in your activity journey. On top of providing a source of unconditional love and affection, your small dog needs to go outside and go for walks! It will make you active. Even if you decide to get a cat, they still need food and water and will get you up and active in no time.