As you age, exercise might become more daunting. You may have fears about intensity or injury. You may worry that you no longer have the strength or capacity to complete a run or lift heavy weights. You may even have health conditions that prevent you from trying certain workouts.

Older age doesn’t mean you should sit on the sidelines, though. You don’t necessarily need to run miles and miles or participate in high-impact training to reap the many benefits of exercise. In fact, you’ll find a number of advantages associated with yoga and other low impact workouts for seniors.

Yoga

Low-impact movement is the name of the game when it comes to yoga. And since there are variety of styles to practice, you’re sure to find the one best suited for you. A few specific health concerns that yoga can help ease include:

– Anxiety

– Balance

– Flexibility

– High blood pressure

– Joint health

– Mobility

What’s more, yoga proves especially beneficial for our psychological wellbeing. It keeps the mind sharp, boost positivity and enhance mindfulness. And studies have shown that yoga aides fibromyalgia, migraines, multiple sclerosis, osteoporosis and other health conditions.

Low Impact Workouts for Seniors

In addition to yoga, consider incorporating these low impact workouts for seniors into your routine.

– Swimming and Water Aerobics: Water exercise has long been known as a top low-impact workout. That’s because water movement provides resistance so that you can build strength while being gentle on your joints.

– Tai Chi: One of many exercise offerings at The Clare, tai chi consists of a series of intentional movements accompanied by deep breathing. Tai chi gently improves your strength, flexibility and range of motion, and it can be adapted to accommodate your needs and limitations.

Other low impact workouts for seniors include:

– Total-body resistance exercise

– Walking

– Pilates

– Elliptical

– Indoor cycling

Whatever workout plan you decide to tackle, be sure to consult with your doctor before you begin. And when you do, get ready to experience the mental and physical health benefits of low impact workouts for seniors.