Physical fitness provides health benefits for people of all ages, especially older adults. Physical activity can improve balance to prevent falls, decrease risk of heart disease and reduce arthritic pain in older adults. Many older adults are reluctant to exercise for fear of injury or exhaustion. Exercise videos specifically designed for older adults provide a safe, convenient and effective way to exercise at home.
'Older and Wiser'
Instructor Sue Grant leads older adults through a 60-minute cardio and toning workout that includes knee lifts, step touches and arm exercises. Exercises are done standing or sitting in a chair. "Older and Wiser" provides an easy-to-follow and low-impact aerobic workout that focuses on strengthening muscles that are used for everyday tasks. The workout also includes an appropriate warm-up and cool-down portion. One- to 3-lb. weights are encouraged.
'Armchair Fitness'
The "Armchair Fitness for Seniors" series includes "Strength Improvement" and "Dance Aerobics" videos. Strength improvement, led by Betty Switkes, features upper- and lower-body strengthening exercises. Made up of three 20-minute dance routines, dance aerobics provides a cardio workout set to upbeat music. Participants are encouraged to use the "Strength Improvement" and "Dance Aerobics" videos two to three times a week on alternating days to see results such as increased endurance, muscle mass, flexibility and balance. Run time for "Strength Improvement" is 40 minutes, and "Dance Aerobics" runs 60 minutes.
'Healing Exercises for Seniors'
Led by 72-year-old Pat Laster, "Healing Exercises for Seniors" includes stretching techniques designed to increase flexibility, relieve pain and encourage relaxation. The program features six techniques, including yoga, shiatsu, tai chi, do-in (self massage), breathing and relaxation and meditation methods. Duration of workout is 60 minutes.
'Yoga for Grandparents'
"Yoga for Grandparents" teaches older adults the art of practicing yoga. Taught by Ingrid Von Burg and Yves Vacheresse, the 55-minute program features yoga poses broken into relaxing movements that all age levels can accomplish. The workout consists of six sections--introduction, warm-up, dynamic stretching, breathing, relaxation and namaste (closing poses). Participants choose from a contemplative/meditative voice or instructional/traditional voice for the dynamic stretching section.
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