Just because one is older doesn’t mean that he or she shouldn’t exercise. Exercise, when done in moderation and in a safe way, is good for everyone. For seniors there are several good and safe exercises that they can do such as walking, swimming, cycling, weight training, stretching and balance exercises.

Walking is one of the best and easiest exercises for seniors. If you haven’t walked for awhile begin by walking for only 5 -10 minutes and at a moderate pace. Later, increase your walking to a pace that you feel comfortable with. Work towards a goal, for example, of walking a half hour to an hour a day, several days a week.

Then there is cycling and swimming. These two exercises are safe and effective and will help to keep the weight off. Weight training also is a good exercise for the elderly”especially those in their 50s and 60s. It is advisable to do weight training at least two to three times a week. For those over 60 it is also advisable to have a weight trainer help with the exercises. Weight training exercises such as squats, leg presses, bench presses, barbell shrugs and bench dumbbell shrugs for the shoulders can be quite beneficial for most seniors.

Stretching is also good for seniors and is safe. These kinds of exercises help seniors to stay active as they age. Balance exercises help to build strong leg muscles and can help prevent falls and fractures.

Along with exercising, a healthy diet and getting good sleep is very beneficial for seniors. Diets that are balanced and rich in vitamins like vitamin D, calcium and fiber help to keep you in good physical and mental health. And, drinking plenty of water and foods such as soup, fresh fruit juices and herbal teas help seniors a great deal. Exercising, done in moderation helps to prevent health conditions and diseases that seniors can acquire as they age such as diabetes, high cholesterol, blood pressure, depression, stress, arthritis and other age-related diseases.