How do exercise needs change with age?

Aging is often thought of as a time when we begin to slow down due to decreased muscle mass and reduced range of motion.

However, exercise remains important, regardless of our stage of life. Physical exercise benefits both our body and mind in several ways. It boosts our quality of life as we age and enables our ability to continue performing the usual activities of daily living.

Exercise is also a protective factor for various diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, cancer, strokes, and mental health conditions. You can help yourself to stay physically, mentally, and emotionally happy by practicing regular exercise.

How Do Your Exercise Requirements Change as You Age?

The recommended amount of exercise for adults of any age is 150 minutes a week. Although this recommendation remains relatively unchanged as we age, the specific types of exercise that are optimal for your body change.

For older adults, low-impact exercise is better than high-intensity training. This means doing more walking, swimming, and strength training to maintain your existing muscle mass or even increase the amount of skeletal muscle in your body.

Aim to include more strength, endurance, and mobility work into your exercise routine for the best outcomes. It is also important to consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new exercise routine.

You might also consider working with a fitness professional who can establish an effective exercise program that meets your unique needs, goals and capaiblities. They’ll also know how to modify certain exercises to reduce your risk of injuries. For example, if you have poor lower limb mobility, they can adjust your training program to improve your joint range of motion without risking your safety.