The cold winter months can make it difficult to stay on track with exercise. Between the snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, we’re all spending more time indoors, but that doesn’t mean we can’t still stay active!
Winter is a great time to lace up your sneakers and focus on your fitness goals, whether you’re looking to maintain balance, increase strength, or improve flexibility. Best of all, there’s a variety of exercises you can do this winter—without the need to bundle up and brave the outdoors.
Here are some great indoor fitness ideas for older adults:
- Walking
Walking is by far one of the best exercises for older adults. It’s low-impact, which is easy on arthritic joints, plus there’s no equipment required! When it’s too cold to walk outdoors, many people enjoy walking on a treadmill, but you can also “get your steps in” at a local shopping center or community center. Many retirement communities have walking clubs, which makes exercising a fun, social activity.
- Cardio drumming
Cardio drumming is a fun new fitness trend that offers a full-body workout. Using drumsticks, participants follow an instructor to create rhythmic beats on a stabilized exercise ball “drum.” While playing along to upbeat songs, the drummers incorporate easy dance and exercise movements. Because cardio drumming can be done from a seated or standing position, it’s ideal for all ages and fitness levels.
- Indoor cycling
If you like riding your bike outdoors, try indoor cycling! Indoor exercise bikes offer all the benefits of traditional bicycles, but they can be even more comfortable and safe. At the Bethany Village Fitness Center, special recumbent bikes allow users to sit comfortably in the seat with their legs positioned out in front instead of downward. Stationary bikes can be adjusted to suit nearly any fitness level, allowing users to go as fast or as slow as they wish.
- Chair exercises
For older adults with limited mobility or trouble standing for long periods of time, chair exercises offer a great solution. You might be surprised at the types of exercises that can be done in a seated position, including strength-building exercises and balance training exercises.
A few reminders:
- Before trying any new exercise routine, talk to your doctor. They may recommend certain exercises for you.
- Find an activity you like to do, whether it’s a solo exercise routine or a group fitness class. You’ll be less likely to skip workouts when you enjoy them!
- Be sure to warm up before you start exercising. Walking in place while doing arm circles is a great way to warm up.
- Remember to stay hydrated before, during, and after your workout. You might not feel as thirsty as you would when exercising outdoors, but your body still needs plenty of water!
At Bethany Village, we’re committed to helping older adults maintain a healthy and active lifestyle. Our newly remodeled, state-of-the-art fitness center offers the latest in exercise equipment technology, with easy-to-use equipment specifically designed for older adults. We invite you to take a tour of our beautiful community and learn more about our fitness and wellness programs.
