Top 4 Picks of Fitness Equipment for Older Adults
Physical health tends to decline with age, and this is especially true for older adults who are in their 50’s and 60’s. The importance of regular exercise as one gets older cannot be stressed upon enough. According to the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the American Heart Association (AHA), regular physical activity such as aerobic and muscle-strengthening activity is essential for healthy aging.
Staying physically active is the key to improve the quality of life and maintain cognitive as well as physical functions. Listed below are our top four picks of fitness equipment that will help you stay agile as an older adult, prevent injuries and positively impact your overall health.
1) Rowing Machine
One of the most versatile fitness equipment, the rowing machine is easy to use and offers an excellent way to strengthen the body. It can be used to work out all major groups of our body such as the shoulder, back, arms, abdomen, and legs. The long-term benefits of using a rowing machine include increased energy and improved stamina. What’s more, it also aids in reducing weight. According to Harvard Health Publications, a 30 min workout at a moderate pace can burn anywhere between 210-311 calories.
2) Elliptical Trainer
One of the most popular machines in the gym, the elliptical cross trainer offers strength training and low-impact workouts. It provides a comfortable workout with complete control over the resistance, incline, and speed. An hour-long workout can help burn around 450-840 calories. It offers numerous fitness benefits such as increased mobility, improved bone density, better balance, and flexible ligaments.
3) Treadmill
A lot of elderly people are advised to walk by their doctors; however, it might be difficult to find the space to do so in a city. This is where the treadmill comes in. One can have a safe workout indoors without worrying about traffic or the weather. Moving onto the fitness benefits, treadmills offer a great way to get the muscles working and heart pumping. It helps improve balance, boosts metabolic rate and assists with keeping your blood pressure in check.
4) Recumbent Bike Machine
For those looking for a stress-free cardiovascular workout, the recumbent bike machine is the right choice of fitness equipment. It has a reclining design to lean back on comfortably and has handlebars on the side for a better grip. Workouts are simple on this machine as it provides great support to your back, offer low-impact workouts and engages few muscle groups. They are ideal for older adults who have joint issues such as arthritis.
The above-mentioned fitness equipment will help improve the quality of life and maintain cognitive as well as physical functions in older adults. Bear in mind to speak with your doctor and consult with a certified trainer before you embark on your new exercise regime.
Sources:
