Exercise and Older Adults
1. Chair Stand
Description: The chair stand helps improve lower body strength and stability, crucial for preventing falls. Sit on a sturdy chair, stand up, and slowly sit back down.
- Sit with your feet flat on the floor.
- Stand up without using your hands.
- Sit back down slowly, keeping control.
Reps: 10-12 reps, 2-3 sets.
2. Seated Leg Extensions
Description: This exercise strengthens the thighs and helps with knee stability. Sit upright in a chair and extend one leg at a time, holding for a few seconds before lowering.
- Sit with your back straight.
- Extend one leg and hold for 5 seconds.
- Lower and repeat with the other leg.
Reps: 10-15 reps per leg, 2-3 sets.
3. Heel Raises
Description: Heel raises improve ankle strength and balance. Stand behind a chair for support, then rise onto your toes and lower back down.
- Stand tall with feet shoulder-width apart.
- Slowly lift your heels, standing on your toes.
- Lower back down gently.
Reps: 10-15 reps, 2-3 sets.
4. Wall Push-ups
Description: Wall push-ups are a great way to build upper body strength without straining the shoulders. Stand at a comfortable distance from a wall, then perform push-ups against the wall.
- Stand a few feet from the wall.
- Place hands shoulder-width apart on the wall.
- Lower your body toward the wall and push back up.
Reps: 8-12 reps, 2-3 sets.
5. Side Leg Raises
Description: This exercise strengthens the hip muscles, which are essential for balance. Stand behind a chair for support and slowly raise one leg to the side.
- Stand straight, holding onto a chair.
- Lift one leg to the side without tilting your body.
- Hold briefly and return to starting position.
Reps: 10-12 reps per side, 2-3 sets.