3 Functional Fitness Tips to Improve Mobility

GLENDALE, Calif., Dec. 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Mobility is essential to the health and well being of older adults. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, impaired mobility contributes to many health problems, including depression and cardiovascular disease, and also can limit social contact with friends and relatives. 

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20131218/CG35657)

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130710/CG45364LOGO-b)      

Seniors challenged by limited mobility while cleaning, gardening or playing with their grandchildren may want to consider a functional fitness workout specifically designed to support aging bodies. Functional fitness for seniors exercises the heart, lungs, muscles and joints to keep them strong and flexible to meet the physical demands of daily life.

MySilverAge.com recommends these three functional fitness workouts for improved mobility:

1. Use Sandbells to Minimize Strain. While exercise equipment such as dumbbells strengthen arms, many weights can place too much strain on the hands. A Sandbell—a weighted, contoured fabric bag filled with sand—is an easier alternative for older adults, because they offer customizable weight and grip for strength exercises, while minimizing stress and strain on hands.

2. Use Interval Training for Quick Bursts of Energy. Children tend to have short bursts of energy followed by periods of rest before they start again. Keep up with the grandkids with interval training. Walk on a treadmill at a normal speed for five minutes, then increase to a more challenging pace for one minute and repeat.

3. Use an Exercise Ball for Better Balance. Good balance is vital for safe walking, stair climbing and avoiding falls. Use an exercise ball in place of a chair during traditional workouts, such as lifting weights, to help improve balance. The instability of the ball forces all the body's muscles to work together to support stability and steady balance.

For additional tips to help improve senior mobility, flexibility and balance, watch the video: "5 Movements to Increase Mobility."

About MySilverAge
MySilverAge is a website and online resource center, brought to you by be.group, that is designed to help seniors enjoy "what's next." MySilverAge brings together thought leaders on the subject of successful aging, leading intelligence on healthy aging and senior living, and expert tips and advice for creating the home, community and relationships in which seniors can thrive.

About be.group
As one of California's largest nonprofit providers of senior living communities, be.group is committed to creating communities and services that make the lives of older adults more fulfilling. be.group's dedicated, well-trained staff is devoted to helping its residents and clients discover new ways to embrace life's possibilities and new options for exploring their potential. Follow @begroupliving on Twitter.

Contact:
Jackie Gibson
Content Director
Imagination.
312-382-7862
[email protected]

SOURCE MySilverAge