It’s been pointed out to me, as a member in good standing of the geezers, that aging doesn’t relieve one of the obligation to maintain (at least a modicum of) good physical condition. Many seniors walk and even use dumbells, and that’s great. But a real problem seems to be with our balance and general flexibility.
The National Institute of Health has recommended functional fitness exercises for seniors that address 4 areas: endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility. Walking, climbing stairs, sit-to-stand, and wall push-ups are easy to do at home or in the neighborhood with little or no equipment.
Here are a couple of balance exercises that also can be done at home —
• Standing on one foot. Stand on one foot behind a sturdy chair. Hold for 10 sec. Repeat 10 times, then do it with the opposite leg. Then do it 15 times alternating legs – right, left, right, left, etc.
• Walking heel to toe. Put the heel of one foot in front of toes of the other foot, heel and toes touching. Step forward, placing the heel just in front of your other foot. Do 20 pairs. If you focus on a point ahead of you, it will keep you steady.
That’s quite enough for now!
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