A massive part of life that many try to overlook is getting older. As we age, it is essential to maintain optimal physical health. To ensure we experience as little health implications as possible, we must find the perfect exercise routine for ourselves. Today, we are going to explore the benefits of corrective exercise and when it is suitable for clients over 55. Corrective exercise involves specific exercises designed to target imbalances, reduce pain, recover from injuries, and enhance movement and flexibility. For many, corrective exercises are a tremendously valuable tool to ensure physical health and quality of life are always maintained.
Common Fitness Issues That Seniors Often Experience
Firstly, it is essential to address the struggles that people may face as they get a little older. Ageing often encompasses many fitness challenges that can be detrimental to a person’s daily life.
Balance – A common issue that many begin to encounter is poor balance, which can be caused by a plethora of factors, such as inner ear infections and neurological disorders. With poorer balance comes a high risk of falling, which can result in serious injuries.
Strength – Another prevalent issue among seniors can be a decrease in overall strength. As we get older, our muscle mass tends to become lower, impacting our ability to perform daily activities.
Joint Pain – Also widespread within the age of 55 above is joint pain, which can be caused by several factors, including weight gain and arthritis. When our joints begin to struggle, it can limit our mobility and lead to other declines in physical fitness and ability.
Flexibility – When our flexibility begins to lessen, it can lead to muscle tightness and joint stiffness. Over time, it is more likely to experience difficulty in moving freely and maintaining an active lifestyle.
Cardiovascular Capacity – Often, due to a lack of aerobic exercise, a decline in cardiovascular capacity can result in reduced stamina and fatigue, further discouraging physical activity.
Weight Gain – One other concern that can massively impact our physical fitness and function is weight gain. This is often attributed to a decline in metabolic rate or a poor diet. Having excess body fat can exacerbate multiple health conditions and lead to diabetes, heart disease, and more.
How Corrective Exercise Might Help
Incorporating corrective exercise into a daily routine can significantly slow the process of ageing and help us maintain our bodily function. Regular exercise is brilliant for improving our muscle strength, enhancing flexibility, and boosting our cardiovascular health. All these things are crucial for seniors to maintain a high quality of life. Corrective exercises focus heavily on muscle imbalances, poor posture, flexibility, and our overall health, reducing the implications often associated with getting old.
Implementing Corrective Exercises for Seniors
Of course, as we get older, we do need to be a little more careful. Before commencing corrective exercise, it is highly recommended to visit a healthcare provider for an evaluation of your physical health. Additionally, it is much safer to exercise under the supervision of a professional and qualified personal trainer. With a thorough medical assessment and the assistance of a personal trainer, you can develop a safe and structured corrective exercise routine, ensuring you reach your desired goals and address any issues you face with your physical health.
Effective Exercises for Common Issues
It is crucial to remember that the concept of corrective exercise is to address specific pain points often experienced by seniors. This means that everyone will need specific guidance tailored to the struggles they are facing. Before trying any exercise, it is essential to consult a professional. Here are some exercises you may need to do when addressing particular common issues.
Knee Pain – Common corrective exercises to address this issue are straight leg raises and lunges.
Hip Pain – It is possible to alleviate hip pain using leg swings and standing hip abductions, which can enhance mobility and stability over time.
Lower Back Pain – Often a result of weak core muscles, lower back pain can be addressed by pelvic tilts and Superman’s.
Shoulder Pain – Chest presses and arm circles are a great way to enhance shoulder stability and reduce discomfort.
Getting Back to the Best Shape of Your Life
If you need support and advice about getting back to great shape, Movewell Health & Fitness is here to help. We specialise in personal training for anyone over 35. If you want professional and qualified personal trainers you can count on, get in touch today.
