Doing cardio can be tiring even for the fittest of adults, so imagine if your loved ones are doing it in their golden years. Cardio exercises are very important for all age groups and there are certain guidelines that we have to take note of especially for your loved ones. Regular cardio exercises for seniors not only strengthen their lungs and heart but can also give them that added energy for to go about their day. It also sharpens their mind and can reduce symptoms such as depression and loneliness.
Why Must your Loved Ones do Cardio?
No doubt getting older changes the way you look and feel. It also can affect your ability to do more strenuous exercises. Doing light cardio can benefit your loved ones as it builds up their heart rate, which in turn will help them breathe easier. Simple cardio exercises such as walking, aerobics, and even home exercises can make a difference in their lives.
Cardio Guidelines that your Loved Ones Should Follow
Doing cardio is important, but the question becomes, how much is too much? According to a top heart association in the United States, it is recommended that older adults should have a mixture of moderate and strenuous cardio sessions at least three times a week, with moderate sessions lasting 30 minutes and more vigorous sessions lasting for 20 minutes.
How to Set Up Cardio Workouts
Setting up workouts for your loved ones can be simple. You just have to make sure the exercises that are recommended are easy for them to do. You also have to take note of their physical ability, whether or not if they can do them safely.
- Pick a simple activity: Depending on your loved ones’ ability to handle the intensity, cardio exercises should be simple enough for them to do but also enjoyable at the same time. Activities such as walking, hiking and swimming are best for your loved ones.
- Duration of cardio exercises: While it is recommended that your loved ones should do about 20 to 30 minutes per session, they can start with less if they have not worked out for a while, gradually adding more time as they start to feel more comfortable doing the exercises.
- Intensity: They should start at a pace that they are comfortable with. Once in a rhythm, then they can go a little harder. The best way to have the perfect cardio workout is to do interval training, which means pushing hard for one minute then slowing it down for another minute. This will build up your loved ones’ endurance level.
- Exercise often: Whether your loved ones are beginners or not, regular exercise can have a beneficial effect on their overall health, both psychically and mentally.
Why Choose Discovery Commons At Wildewood
Doing cardio exercise or activities regularly is very important to the health of your loved ones, whether doing them alone or in a community that caters to aging adults. At Discovery Commons At Wildewood, your loved ones can enjoy doing cardio with their new friends and neighbors through our Dimensions Health & Wellness. We have many programs on offer, with state-of-the-art amenities and daily activities. With team members always on hand to assist, we are sure that your loved ones will feel right at home here. Schedule a tour with us now.
