A few days ago, I posted a blog about how strength training and building muscle can help some populations live longer lives.
Today’s post is geared toward helping you to get started doing this.
Before I go too deep into this article, I want to point out that you should always work with a doctor when starting a new exercise routine. While the vast majority of people will benefit from this advice, there is a chance that you can do more harm than good if you just jump in. Speak with a medical professional prior to starting anything new like this.
It might sound too easy, but using free weights tends to be the best way for seniors to build muscle. This is opposed to weight machines that you find at the gym. The reason behind this is that free weights have a little bit of a chaotic element to them. While both can help build muscle, the slight side to side movements that free weights have builds muscle in a different manner. It is ideal for helping to improve balance, something that can act as a protective buffer for those that are prone to injury from falls.
Cardio activities like walking and swimming have muscle building benefits, too. A combination of these kinds of activities can help seniors to build muscle and strength.
This research comes from the Baylor College of Medicine in Houston.
There is a common misperception out there that seniors cannot build muscle. This belief is likely so prevalent because so many seniors do lose muscle mass as they age. Unfortunately, this is far more common than it should be.
But as the current research indicates, it doesn’t necessarily need to be like this for many seniors. There are ways to maintain and even grow muscle mass in the 60s, 70s, and beyond.
Ultimately, the goal of this should be to help improve the quality of life that someone experiences. Whether it’s to help live a healthier life, be happier emotionally, or just to feel physically better and stronger, there are a lot of benefits that come along with this.
Exercise isn’t the only thing that can help seniors live a better life as they age. The right care routine can also help make life better. However, there’s a lot of different types of care and countless different senior care services, agencies, organizations, and even freelance individuals out there competing for your attention. The right care for your unique set of needs is vital to success in this area. Just like how a customized workout routine can help you to meet your fitness goals more effectively, a customized care approach can help make your senior years a whole lot easier.
Do you have questions about how senior care can help you or an older loved one live a higher quality of life? We’re here to answer your questions. Feel free to give us a call and schedule your free consultation session. We understand that there’s a lot to take in when it comes to care, so we do our best to take the confusion and mystery out of it. Get in touch today to get the ball rolling.
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