Jennifer
Author
As we age, gaining weight becomes easier and losing it more difficult. If your doctor has advised you to take off those extra pounds, diet may not be enough, and here is where a good exercise routine can help with that, too. Exercise can lift our mood, add years to our lives and lessen the severity of age-related illnesses. Studies have shown that seniors who exercise spent 25% less time disabled or injured than those who did not. Most fitness regimens can be done indoors at home or at the gym, so no matter the weather, you always have the ability to stay fit with a few fun and effective weight loss exercises over the age of 50.
Anyone in reasonably good health can benefit from increased physical activity and other wellness-focused habits. If you are looking for weight loss exercises over the age of 50, keep these tips in mind when starting your new health routine, and don’t forget to check in with your doctor.
Cardio Exercise
Even if you have health problems, you can adopt a heart-healthy cardio routine that fits your unique needs. For example, if you want to start jogging, focus on distance rather than speed so you can minimize the stress on your joints — but it’s important to work up to a long distance, especially if you’re just getting into the world of fitness. A low-impact cardio program is great for both heart health and burning calories, even if you suffer from bad knees or hips. Whatever activity you choose to boost your heart rate, the key is to start slowly and gradually work your way up to a faster pace.
Strength Training
Think strength training is only for those looking to bulk up? Think again. Muscle mass is an important factor in your overall health as you age, and weight loss exercises over the age of 50 that incorporate strength training are the most effective way to increase it. The goal is to replace body fat with leaner, denser muscle for a fit, toned body that will leave you both looking and feeling years younger. Post-menopausal women are at increased risk of osteoporosis and working out with weights is an important step in building bone density. Check out the five most important exercises for longevity.
Water Aerobics
Water creates more resistance for your muscles, which means more calories burned, while its buoyancy provides extra support for joints. Rather than increasing weights as you progress, like out-of-the-water exercise, with water aerobics, you simply increase repetitions. The more repetitions you perform, the more pounds you can lose. Most large cities have a YMCA or community center with an indoor pool that offer free or reduced rates for seniors.
Dancing
Probably the most enjoyable weight loss exercises over the age of 50 involve dancing, and you don’t even need a partner. Just Dance, for example, is a video game that allows you to choose your music and pace as you keep up with your online dance partners. You’ll not only get a great work-out, but it’s also an excellent way to maintain coordination and balance. Remember those tap dancing lessons you took when you were a kid? You can brush up on them while you brush step your way to burning calories and the only equipment you need are the shoes. If you want to boost your fitness and femininity with showgirl workouts head over to Boudoir Gym.
Stretching and Mobility Exercises
Stretching exercises are an important piece of the puzzle when it comes to preserving mobility in your senior years, and there’s no time like the present to start working toward a healthier you. Exercises like yoga and Pilates are not only good for weight loss, according to Wellness with Eszter, but will help you build strength while improving your flexibility and mobility. You can enroll in classes in your area, or you can use YouTube videos or connect with someone online who can provide you with guided classes and sessions.
Nutritional Eating
There’s little point in exercising if you don’t also eat a healthy diet. Your ideal nutritional eating plan will be based on your fitness goals (whether you’re trying to lose weight or gain muscle mass, for example), any existing health problems, and even the medications and supplements you take. Talk to your doctor about what’s best for you, and take a look at this helpful advice. If you need help developing a healthy menu, you can work with freelance dieticians who can put together tailored meal plans based around your nutritional needs. Or, you can follow nutritionists on sites like Instagram and YouTube to learn more about the types of foods you need to add to your meals.
If you’re in relatively good health and your doctor gives you the OK, the best approach to fitness is a regimen that combines aerobic exercise, strength training, movements that promote flexibility, and a healthy diet. Once you find the right combination that works for you, you can enjoy better health and well-being for years to come.
Creating an effective Healthy Lifestyle Plan by yourself that works over the age of 50 can be a real challenge especially with a time consuming job or business. Click on the image below to register for my free webinar about losing weight with a sedentary job!
