Exercise Tips Index page

Balance exercises will strengthen core muscles.

Flexibility training involves stretching your muscles and tendons.

Strength training reinforces muscle groups that protect extremities.

As most of us age, we lose elasticity in our muscles, tendons, ligaments and joints. But age is not the only factor that causes us to lose flexibility, says Rick Kamerzell, director of rehabilitation services at St. Thomas More Hospital in Cañon City. The main reason is lack of exercise. In fact, studies show that a sedentary lifestyle is a bigger factor in decreasing flexibility than aging. If you stay active and use stretching to maintain your flexibility, you will look and feel younger.

Just 30 minutes of aerobic exercise five days a week is enough to promote cardiovascular health.

Exercise is important to a healthy lifestyle—regardless of your age. While many older adults may be reluctant to get moving for fear of strain or difficulty, research has shown that physical activity has benefits for every age group. Regular exercise can delay or prevent many diseases and disabilities. Recent studies show that adults age 50 and older decrease their risk for heart problems and increase their life expectancy when they remain moderately active.

Find time that works best for you.

Want to start an exercise program to ease your arthritis pain? Here are a few tips from the Arthritis Foundation to help get you started.

You already do it every day, even if you don’t think of walking as exercise, but is it enough?

“It’s really good at tricking you into getting fit while you’re having a good time.”

Too many people dive into exercise rather than easing into it, leading to pain and injury, says Lisa Broekhuis, manager of the Penrose Health Learning Center Gym and a certified therapeutic recreation specialist in Colorado Springs.

Swimming may be the best of all exercise options because it works the whole body.

Dancing can be both enjoyment and exercise

When planning an outdoor activity, for example, a hike, precondition your legs weeks before, stretch, stay hydrated and be prepared for all weather conditions.

Vigorous exercise in hot weather without adequate fluids can result in heat exhaustion or heatstroke. If you suspect someone is suffering from heat exhaustion or heatstroke, take them to a shady or air-conditioned location, lay them down and elevate their feet. Have them drink cool water and fan them until emergency help arrives.