Resistance Band Exercises for Older Adults

Resistance band exercises are important for older adults for several reasons: cardiovascular fitness is improved, there is an increase in flexibility, energy level rises, it reduces stress, it helps with sleep, and it helps lower the risk of injuries.

While we know that exercise is important to maintain muscle mass, it is even more vital for older adults who tend to live a sedentary lifestyle, thus gaining weight and losing muscle mass.

In an effort to reduce the aforementioned conditions, older adults can utilize stretch bands in their daily routine. Implementing exercises using bands three times a week, an older adult can increase their overall strength.

As with any exercise program, it is important to check with a doctor to advise what type of exercise you will be engaging in so that he is aware in case of any future problem. Before you begin, here are some tips to follow to ensure your routine is enjoyable and safe.

Begin stretching before the actual exercise. This will warm up your limbs and prepare them for a workout. Keep your back erect and stomach muscles in. The proper technique is to control the stretch band while at the same time, resisting it. Keep your legs and arms taut, but do not lock them in any position. Remember to breathe with each exercise, and rest between each set. The approximate amount of recommended repetitions is 15 per exercise.

Finally, try to mix up your routine. Some of the resistance band exercises can include: strengthening the shoulder muscles, hamstring muscles, deltoid muscles, and biceps. These can easily be done in the privacy of your own home at a time suitable for you. After each day’s exercise, ensure you drink a lot of water and receive plenty of rest.

In addition, maintaining a healthy diet will afford you the opportunity to lose weight and able to exercise more efficiently while, at the same time, burn more calories.

For more information on how you can perform some simple yet effective exercises all from the comfort of your home, no need to spend time travelling down to a local gym, check out this great book: "BURN THE FAT, FEED THE MUSCLE".