Or a walk around the block will do, too.
As people age, one of the things they most fear is that 150 minutes of brisk walking, plus light strength training at least two days per week is enough physical activity to keep older adults active and mobile.
150 minutes can sound like an overwhelming amount, but once you break it up into digestible chunks, it's much easier to digest. Walking for just 10 minutes, twice a day is nearly enough to meet the requirement.
Many people also find that once they are used to walking in these short spurts, they are able to increase their pace and mileage. Regular walking can increase cardiovascular function and physical function, while also decreasing the risk of disability.
Walking is also a great choice for older people who want to incorporate socialization in their daily routine because it's easy to walk with a friend or loved one. It's also a great way to spend time outdoors during warmer months, which can help older people reach their requisite levels of Vitamin D. This is an essential nutrient for older adults because it aids in calcium absorption, keeping bones strong and thereby aiding in long term mobility
As with any exercise regimen, walking can provide the most benefits when it is part of a regular routine. If you want to start walking to improve your own fitness and mobility, try to schedule your walks as you would any other appointment. Once you get into the habit of walking at the same time every day, it can easily become something you look forward to.
Keep in mind that even for older people who were never very active, it's not too late to add physical activity into your daily routine and still reap the benefits.
At Vista Springs, we believe wholeheartedly in our residents staying active and independent in their day-to-day lives. We facilitate an active lifestyle with regular fitness classes, rehabilitation facilities, and of course our beautiful grounds, which are the perfect environment for walking.
