Seniors
So I have to tell you the origin
of the frequently asked questions. I am currently volunteering as the fitness
instructor at a senior center in a very small but adequate fitness center.
First let me say most are well into their 70’s with a variety of ailments but
for the most part in decent shape for their age. They are funny, opinionated
and passionate. Most of them are regulars at the fitness center anywhere from
3-5 days per week. Their workouts are simple, relatively short, and their
conversations vary but usually follow the story of the day. Very little of
their conversations are about their health or status.
This is different from what I
expected and although I thought I would enjoy myself when first asked to assist
the center, I believed I’d hear some complaining particularly about their
health and finances. But no they rarely complain and in fact most are pleasant
humorous and inquisitive. They do ask many questions, some about fitness and
how to use various tools and some about me a where I came from and how long I
will stay. Currently there are many of them requesting exercise balls after
they observed my using it. I will be going out to purchase 6 more today which
brings the total to 11. One lady told me her cat would love it. These seniors
are valid vital and vigorous and I am learning some things about myself and my
ability to relate.
I have never been a patient
person but it is demanded here by circumstance and I actually have more
patience than I ever thought. Funny how that happens and attributes are revealed
by the needs of others. They move and think a little slower than they once did
so conversation requires attention and listening. Also they are creatures of
habit with faculties not as sharp as they once were so keeping things in the
same place is another requirement. So much so that something left in the middle
of the floor creates the potential for a tripping incident which for a senior
could spell disaster. I have wanted to change the channel on the television
especially during Wendy Williams show but I dare not as it may cause some
consternation amongst the seniors. I am enjoying my experience here and will
miss it when it ends.
So here are some additional
questions asked by the seniors at the center:
1.
What
kind of equipment do I need? I can’t afford exercise equipment?
a.
For many activities you do not need a great deal
of equipment. I have used water bottles as weights, resistance bands, exercise
balls and a clothes line for jump rope. If you are motivated and imaginative
you will not need fancy and expensive equipment. Check with parks and local
public recreation centers as they often have exercise equipment. Seniors check
the senior centers as exercise is vital to maintain your health.
2.
What
if I have an injury or health problem that keeps me from exercising for a
while? How do I know if it’s safe for me to start again?
a.
Again this is an issue you may want to discuss
with your doctor but if it is a minor injury or sprain and it is feeling better
I recommend going back as soon as you are able since the longer you remain away
the more difficult it becomes to return.
3.
I get
tired easily. What is the best exercise for me?
a.
Your energy level should rise as you increase
your physical activity. It will seem difficult initially as your body works to make
the adjustment but as you add muscle you will add energy. If this feeling of
fatigue persist for more than a few weeks consult your physician. It is
important to understand that it will be challenging initially both physically
and mentally but once you get past this barrier the benefits are enormous.
4.
I’ve
been exercising for some time now. Why am I not seeing any more real
improvements?
a. The
body is amazing and will get used to the level of exercise you are doing. You
have to vary your routines so they challenge the body differently. This may
include but is not limited to adding exercises, increasing the number of
repetitions, increasing the weight, and lengthening the cardio and intensity.
5.
I am
78 years old. Should I be exercising and what difference will it make?
a. Remaining
or becoming active is a good thing at any age since it will improve your health
physically, mentally and spiritually. This will keep you strong and fit and
better able to function and complete daily task. There is a fitness level appropriate
for anyone at any age.
6.
Do I
need to add additional exercises to my walking?
a. My
recommendation is work on endurance, flexibility, strength and balance
together. Being solely focused on one or the other is not going to provide you
the optimum benefit and may result in injury. Each is as important to
functioning as the other.
7.
Is it
better to join a class or a group or do it on my own?
a. If
you have not done it on your own up to now you probably will not suddenly
change. If you have and it is working well, stick with it. If you have and it
is not working than join a group. I work out alone usually but when I am able
to partner with someone on or above my level my workout is more intense. So it
really depends on your level of motivation, knowledge and experience but I
think working with another person helps.
8.
I am
over weight/obese what can I do?
a. Start
with what you are able to do and increase it a little as you make progress. If
you are unable to walk but can stand up than do that. The idea is to move your
body as much as you are able to at the time with the intent of increasing the
length and intensity over time.
9.
I am
not sick nor am I overweight, isn’t that good enough?
a. You
must be eating very well in order to do that without exercise however our bodies
still lose muscle mass as we advance in age. So if for no other reason than to
add muscle mass you need to find an exercise program that will suit your needs.
So no matter who you are, your
age, health status, or current fitness level, fitness training will help to
improve the quality of your life in many ways. Whether it is group exercise
which has the added benefit of decreasing the isolation of this tech crazy
world or individual workouts Get Up Get Moving and remember……….
CHIT CHAT WON’T BURN FAT
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