Senior Citizen Exercise Tools

Exercise for Seniors

Our society is growing older as the Baby Boomers born from 1946-1964 continue to make up the largest portion of our population. As they enter into their 50s and 60s, many people want to maintain a healthy exercise program. However, as they age they often find exercising difficult due to health concerns or physical problems. In addition to the baby boomers, older seniors also want to be able to stay fit through exercise as they live their golden years.

Sit and Get Fit Exercise Classes

Many senior citizen centers and community adult centers offer exercise classes called Sit and Be Fit. During these exercise sessions, the focus is on exercises for low impact cardio, range of motion and flexibility. Throughout the fitness class participants use many exercise tools including light weights, balls, chairs, and bands as they exercise to music. This type of exercise class is also given at many fitness centers.

The Wii as a Senior Citizen Exercise Tool

A great exercise tool for seniors is the video game system called the Nintendo Wii. The Wii system was introduced in November 2006 and has proven to be a great exercise tool for senior citizens. This system allows the players to use remote controllers to play realistic sports games such as bowling, golf, tennis, boxing and baseball. The players actually move as if they were participating in the sport. Seniors are finding that they are able to take part in games that they love and are no longer able to play. The movements of the players are actually simulated on the television screen, as players move, bend and turn. The gaming system allows many seniors to play games they have enjoyed all their lives, while exercising their bodies and their minds. Seniors have embraced the Wii, as grandparents purchase the system for themselves as well as their grandchildren. The Nintendo Wii system is also popular in many senior centers and adult homes, and its popularity continues to grow.

Many medical practitioners are recommending the Nintendo Wii system to patients as a way to exercise. In addition to the games, players are also able to log in to a fitness test and program on the Wii system. Their fitness improvements are tracked by the system and displayed on a graph allowing seniors to watch their fitness levels improve with exercise. Even seniors that are unable to walk or stand are able to utilize the Wii system as they enjoy playing the games.

Fit Express Exercise Equipment

An excellent exercise tool for seniors found in many fitness clubs is the Fit Express line of equipment. These machines are made specifically for older adults with special features such as lower seats designed for support and comfort. The hydraulic fitness equipment provides circuit training with no impact to joints.

Exercise Videos and DVDs for Senior Citizens

There are many excellent exercise videos and DVDs made especially for the needs of seniors. These videos are available in many styles including:

• Aerobics
• Cardio
• Pilates – some programs include a resistance band
• Aerobics
• Toning
• Dance
• Kickboxing
• Stretch
• Yoga
• Tai Chi

Designed for seniors, these videos focus on a balance of activity and rest as seniors build their strength, stamina and balance. Several websites that offer these videos are:

• Active Videos
• Stronger Seniors Fitness Program
• Central Hone
• Seniors Exercise Videos and DVDs
• Doctor’s Senior Exercise

Final Thoughts

Seniors should take advantage of the many excellent resources and senior citizen exercise tools available to them. Regardless of our age, our bodies benefit from the effects of physical activity and exercise. It reduces the risks of certain diseases such as diabetes and heart disease, minimizes the effects of other diseases such as arthritis and makes us stronger and more flexible.