According to the CDC, it’s reported that adults over the age of 50 need more exercise. Physical activity is ideal for helping to prevent a variety of chronic health conditions, but adults aren’t meeting the required exercise requirements.
Part of a healthy exercise plan for older adults incorporates plenty of strength training equipment. Strength training for the elderly can reduce the incidence of cardiovascular disease and can even work to reduce depression.
But which senior-friendly exercise machines are worth purchasing? This list explains the ins and outs of safe workout tools for seniors for safe and effective fitness programs.
Stationary Bikes
When choosing gym equipment for seniors, stationary bikes make great senior-friendly exercise machines to use. These machines are very effective since they’re:
- Low impact
- Offer a cardiovascular workout
- Improve strength and endurance
Seniors should focus on finding adjustable bikes with comfortable seats that can be lowered and raised as needed. It’s also important to use stationary bikes with adjustable resistance. This allows older adults to change how easy or difficult their workout is, tailoring it to their specific needs.
Recumbent Bikes
Recumbent bikes are similar to stationary bikes but with a few differences.
Recumbent bikes for seniors are preferable for anyone with lower back pain since they offer riders a reclined seat. Stationary bikes, on the other hand, are similar to traditional bikes.
Recumbent bikes may offer less impact on joints, although both types of exercise bikes are a type of low-impact cardio workout.
Another consideration is safety, as recumbent bikes are thought to be safer due to their reclined position.
Elliptical Machines
Elliptical machines are ideal for seniors looking for a full-body workout. These machines make this possible without the added pressure of joint stress. Anyone who loves to get out and move will enjoy using an elliptical machine for strength training.
These machines mimic the following exercises:
- Running
- Jogging
- Bicycling
When using an elliptical machine, seniors are working to maintain cardiovascular health while working muscles all over their body.
Pedal Exercisers
Pedal exercisers look similar to bikes, but offer a much less intense workout. Pedal exercisers can increase an older adult’s overall strength when used appropriately.
They’re ideal for strengthening a person’s:
- Ankles
- Knees
- Hip joints
Pedal exercisers can be placed on the floor or even on a tabletop. When used on a tabletop, a senior can strengthen and tone their arm muscles.
Some pedal exercisers can work the legs and arms simultaneously, but take up more space to store. Both are significantly smaller than stationary bikes, recumbent bikes, and treadmills.
Consider Water Aerobics
Seniors with access to pools and spas should consider water aerobics as part of their strength training routine. This is especially true for anyone who needs to avoid putting stress on their joints.
Seniors don’t even have to use weights to benefit from water aerobics and can take group classes where they socialize while exercising.
Dumbbells
Dumbbells are another great tool for seniors looking to strengthen their muscles. Dumbbells can be uncomfortable to hold, however, so the best types of dumbbells for seniors should feature some type of soft, comfortable grips.
This makes them easier to hold when working out. Seniors should always use lighter weights instead of heavier ones. They can start with a low number of repetitions and gradually increase, continuing with lighter weights.
Safety Treadmills
This means that seniors should look for treadmills with built-in safety features. Treadmill safety includes:
- Control panels that are easy to read
- Emergency stop buttons that are visible
- Safety keys used to stop the treadmill with ease
- Handrails
- Simple operating features
Treadmills with too many confusing bells and whistles can prove to be a hindrance, especially for older adults. Ensure whatever treadmill they use for strength training boasts plenty of safety features and is easy to use.
Seniors without exercise equipment can visit local area attractions. This includes fitness centers and gyms. They can also take walks outside, as many assisted living communities have amenities such as walking paths to enjoy.
Resistance Bands
One of the best things about resistance bands is their versatility. They’re perfect for older adults of all ages and ability levels and are easy to transport. They’re also affordable and come in a variety of price points, working for a variety of budgets.
Resistance bands are perfect for helping seniors with:
- Balance
- Flexibility
- Strengthening different muscles
The great thing about resistance bands is that they can strengthen muscles without older adults having to just any type of weights.
Senior Fitness Equipment Tips
Seniors need special safety and security measures, especially when exercising. They should always follow safety tips when using any type of exercise equipment.
For example, strength training machines typically increase in weight by five to ten pounds. However, the majority of seniors need to increase the weights they use to much smaller numbers. By going up in weight too quickly, older adults can experience injury.
The majority of strength training machines all have some type of weight, even at the lowest setting. Some seniors need to start without any weights whatsoever, which makes using certain machines dangerous.
Another issue is posture and the way seniors position their bodies. Seats and headrests should be placed in a position that provides older adults with optimal comfort.
Exercise equipment might also be inaccessible for older adults, especially anyone who uses a wheelchair. This lack of accessibilty means that seniors need to find strength training equipment that works for all their needs.
Seniors in wheelchairs can use free weights, provided they do so safely and start in low increments.
Choose the Right Strength Training Equipment
The best strength training equipment for seniors factors in an older adult’s exercise level before beginning their workout, preexisting conditions that certain equipment might exacerbate, and overall comfortability.
Conservatory at Plano prides itself on all the amenities offered to residents. This includes a heated swimming pool and spa, perfect for anyone who loves to exercise. Other amenities include a restaurant-style menu and an arts and crafts studio – plus so much more.
Contact us today to learn more about our community and what we have to offer you or your loved ones!
