As we get older, it is important to stay physically active to lower the risks of health issues that come with age. Besides keeping physically active, exercises can help you and your loved ones stay mentally and emotionally checked especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
If the outdoors are too inconvenient for seniors or the weather conditions simply aren’t in your favor, try switching to indoor exercises as they are equally as fun and rewarding as exercising outdoors. Furthermore, you won’t be exposed to the outdoor sun which some seniors may suffer a heat stroke from.
Additional resources such as virtual exercise programs are also made available to allow you and your loved ones to stay indoors while keeping physically active. As we brave through these unprecedented times together, here are some indoor exercises that you and your family members can do together while staying indoors to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Indoor Dancing
Put on your dancing shoes and get ready to dance the night away! Dancing is a fun activity that generally appeals to many as it activates various parts of the body, allowing seniors to strengthen their muscles, improve flexibility, and build aerobic strength. With dancing, be it light or intense, you’re bound to break a sweat in no time.
Some examples of indoor dancing include tap dancing, line dancing, and even Jazzercise. In fact, in recent years, there have been many up-and-rising YouTubers releasing free dance videos online so you and your loved ones can watch at your convenience and follow them from the comfort of your homes.
Walk Around and About
Walking is a relatively easy and low-impact aerobic exercise as compared to dancing, but do not underestimate walking as it allows you to build your endurance and prevent health issues. Walking around your house is a good starter to be physically active, and you can even upgrade to a nearby supermarket to walk about and shop for groceries. Walking keeps you mobile, and as simple as it can look, it yields several health benefits in the long run.
Engage in Tai Chi
Tai chi is a form of Chinese martial art that engages your mind and body. Studies have shown that there are many benefits of tai chi. It has been proven to be an effective exercise for mental and physical wellness. Tai chi strengthens your muscles which improves your balance and stability so you won’t be prone to falling or tripping.
Stretch and Meditate with Yoga
Similar to Tai Chi, yoga appears to be one of the best exercises for seniors as it allows them to improve flexibility while focusing on themselves during the sessions. Studies have also shown that it relieves chronic pain in the joints and muscles, so it’s extremely helpful to seniors looking for ways to relieve pain in these areas. At the same time, you can expect to relax and be free of stress through various breathing exercises.
Do Household Chores
Doing light household chores keeps seniors physically active due to the nature of chores around the house. In fact, studies have shown that routinized chores provide a sense of purpose to seniors, so they have something meaningful to look forward to each day.
Start light by sweeping the floor or folding clothes, as household chores often engage various parts of the body and pair various movements together.
