Key Takeaways
- Always listen to your body and speak with your doctor before starting a new activity plan so you can practice good habits.
- Movements like jumping, running on hard surfaces, or some deep twisting can sometimes do more harm than good.
- Protecting your joints, maintaining balance, and considering your heart health are all part of choosing safe exercises.
- There are many enjoyable, low-impact activities, such as walking, and chair yoga, that offer significant benefits.
- A supportive community can help you find a personalized plan that works for you and motivate you to be consistent.
Staying active at any age is an essential part of feeling good and maintaining your independence. But some exercises can be challenging to perform consistently, cause injuries, or even take the joy out of movement. The good news? There’s a way to approach staying active for every body.
At Willowgreen Home, our approach is simple: We support your ability to move, stay active, and feel your best. It starts with finding movement that suits your abilities so you can practice consistently.
Generally, it’s a good idea to modify or avoid high-impact activities, exercises with a high risk of falling, and movements that put too much strain on your joints or back.
Understanding Your Body’s Needs for Safe Movement
Starting any new activity plan begins with checking in with yourself and your care team. It’s about finding movements that make you feel good and support your overall well-being.
Motivation is a crucial part of any wellness goal. Your mind and body need to be on the same team, which means approaching wellness by looking at the big picture.
When emotional or mental health challenges are getting in the way of setting physical health goals, behavioral health support can help you regain control, build confidence, and embrace each day with renewed energy.
Feeling safe and confident can help you set goals and stick to them, so you can make exercise a source of joy rather than a chore.
Listen to Your Body’s Signals
Your body gives you helpful cues. If you feel sharp pain or serious discomfort during an exercise, it’s a sign to stop and rest. Gentle muscle soreness is normal, but pain is not.
Rest is just as crucial to your body as movement, so listen when your body needs a break. You can gain more long-term benefits by exercising consistently rather than pushing through pain to reach a short-term goal.
Talk with Your Doctor
It’s always a good idea to chat with your healthcare provider before trying something new. They know your health history and can offer personalized health advice.
Professionals who know you and your health history can help you choose activities that align with your wellness goals. They can also offer advice on how to adapt exercises or gradually increase intensity.
The Value of Starting Slowly and Gently
When you begin a new routine, ease into it. Start with shorter sessions and lighter intensity. Your body can last longer and gain more benefits when you give your body time to adapt and get stronger gradually.
Movements That May Require Modification or Caution
Some exercises can put extra strain on joints or increase the chance of a fall. It’s helpful to be aware of these so you can choose alternatives or adapt them to fit your needs.
Here are the most common examples of activities you may need to adapt or avoid early on in your fitness journey:
- High-impact exercises
- Activities like jumping, jogging on pavement, or high-intensity aerobics can be hard on the knees, hips, and back
- Activities with a high risk of falling
- Exercises that require quick changes in direction or challenge your balance without support may increase your fall risk
- Standard forms of crunches or sit-ups
- Full sit-ups or crunches can strain the neck and back, but there are many gentle alternatives to strengthen your core
- Lifting heavy weights without guidance
- Using weights that are too heavy or using improper form can lead to injury; start with lighter weights or resistance bands
Why Some Exercises May Not Be the Best Fit
As we age, our bodies change. Understanding these changes helps in choosing activities that are both enjoyable and beneficial for your health.
Protecting Your Joints and Bones
Over time, the cartilage that cushions our joints can wear down. Low-impact exercises are kind to your joints while still helping you build strength and flexibility. Low-impact movement allows you to stay active without causing unnecessary discomfort.
Maintaining Balance and Stability
Balance can become more challenging as we get older. Activities that are unstable or require sudden movements may increase the risk of a fall.
Considering Heart Health and Blood Pressure
Some movements can cause rapid changes in blood pressure. For example, exercises where your head is below your heart may not be suitable for everyone. Gentle, steady activities are often a good choice for cardiovascular wellness.
Finding Joyful and Supportive Ways to Stay Active
Focusing on what you can do is a wonderful approach. Many enjoyable activities can build strength, improve balance, lift your spirits, and encourage social engagement.
- Walking in a comfortable setting
- A simple walk can offer multiple benefits for your health
- Chair yoga and gentle stretching
- You can help improve flexibility, balance, and reduce stiffness while seated to reduce your fall risk
- Strength training with resistance bands
- Resistance bands are an adaptable tool that can help build muscle in a controlled and gentle way
Creating a Personalized Activity Plan in Racine
Having a reliable support system makes staying active easier and more enjoyable. A community that understands your goals can help you find a routine that’s just right for you, making senior living in Racine a positive experience.
How a Supportive Community Encourages Safe Activity
Being around others can be very motivating. In a supportive setting, you can join group classes designed for your needs.
The Role of Behavioral Assisted Living in Racine for an Active Life
With the proper support, you can focus on your well-being. Communities offering behavioral health senior care are designed to support your whole person. Structured programs can help you stay active in a way that feels good for both your mind and body.
Teams are here to help you create a daily routine that includes safe physical activity to live an engaged and fulfilling life.
Your Path to Feeling Good and Moving Well
Staying active is all about finding what works for you. By choosing movements that are safe and enjoyable, you can continue to embrace every day with energy and a positive outlook.
At Willowgreen Home Assisted Living, we are here to support your wellness journey. We create welcoming communities where you can thrive. Contact us to learn more or to schedule a visit.
