The Benefits of a Home Gym for Active Aging
Older adults who met weekly strength-training guidelines significantly increased the length of their life, according to one study by researchers at Penn State College of Medicine. Research continues to show that senior citizens should be introduced to safe ways to workout and strengthen their body in order to prevent incidents such as falls. As you’ll likely be making other modifications to your home as you age, investing in a home gym is a great way to create a healthy, productive space that can benefit your health and general well-being.
The Importance of Exercise for Aging
Residents
Exercise is important at any stage of your life but can be particularly beneficial as you get older. Not only does it improve mobility, flexibility and balance, but it also improves sleep, reduces risk of heart disease and diabetes, and significantly reduces levels of stress and depression that can lead to other problems as you age. The key to maximizing your fitness efforts as lies in modifying your workout routine and equipment to suit your physical abilities as well as enhance the areas of your body that need to be strengthened.
Modifying a Home Gym for Your
Needs
Universal design
is beneficial for all spaces, including a home gym. When deciding on and
designing the space, keep in mind that you’ll want to opt for an open layout and
maximize the efficiency between stations. Installing handrails, grab bars and
even anti-slip flooring is a great way to increase safety and ensure you get the
most out of the space. Regarding the type of equipment you’ll want to include in a home gym,
it is important to analyze your weak points first. If you have weak knees, you
will likely want to invest in a leg press that allows you to strengthen that
area of your body. If you have poor mobility and balance, you will need to
incorporate more core-strengthening equipment such as a big medicine ball and a
yoga mat.
Finding Confidence and Strength Through
Exercise
The most important aspect of exercise is the ability to regain confidence through newfound strength. Having a home gym provides you with a safe space to exercise your mind and body, that helps strengthen your body in a way that can result in confidence and improved independence. Regardless of the exercises or equipment used, that alone is reason enough to invest in a home gym.
