Top 4 Cardio Exercises for Active Seniors

While physical activity is important at any age, it’s a must-have for seniors. As we age, we can lose mobility, strength, and flexibility. Exercising regularly is one of the simplest ways seniors can prevent these issues and lead a happy, healthy, independent life.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults ages 65 and older get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise five days per week to feel their best.

Which Cardio Workout Is For You?

Cardio exercises are among the best activities seniors can add to their fitness routine. Exercises such as brisk walking, swimming, and dancing can boost heart health, increase stamina, reduce stress, and improve memory and sleep quality.

Here are four cardio workouts that seniors can try.

1. Walking

Walking is a great activity for seniors of all ability levels. You can head to your local park, like Johnstone Park or Douglass Park, to take a stroll in the fresh, outside air.

Want to stay indoors? Use a treadmill or a walking pad. You can get your steps in as you watch your favorite shows. Walking pads don’t have handles, so they should only be used by seniors with good balance.

2. Swimming

Water aerobics is one of the most popular cardio exercises for older adults. These low-impact workouts reduce the risk of injury and target all of your muscle groups. Thanks to the buoyancy of the water, aqua workouts help to alleviate the symptoms of painful chronic conditions and ease stiff and sore muscles.

Enroll in a senior-specific water aerobics program at your local fitness center. You can also do exercises by yourself in a pool. Try calf raises, chest flies, leg lifts, or wall push-ups.

3. Dancing

Have you ever wanted to learn salsa or jazz? These fun dances don’t just improve your moves at a wedding reception. Dancing is also a fun and engaging way for older adults to work out. It increases your heart rate, supports bone and muscle health, improves endurance, and promotes balance, helping to reduce the risk of injuries from slips and falls. Additionally, studies have shown that dancing might prevent dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. It’s also a great way to socialize and meet new people.

Look for dance classes that are tailored to seniors, such as Zumba, line dancing, and ballroom dancing.

4. Chair Exercises

It might seem counterintuitive to sit in a chair if you’re trying to raise your heart rate. However, chair exercises are a fantastic way for seniors with balance or mobility issues to get an efficient cardiovascular workout while staying safe and secure.

Try seated marches, leg lifts, core exercises, and bicep curls.

Maintain Your Physical Health with Help from Visiting Angels

Some seniors may not want to drive or take public transportation. This can prevent them from attending exercise classes, doctor’s appointments, or other engagements. Visiting Angels of Bartlesville, OK, is here to help!

Our in-home caregivers offer safe and reliable transportation solutions. They also provide medication management, meal planning and preparation, and personal grooming assistance.