You’ve been told it’s time to get moving for the health of your heart, but you’ve been more sedentary in older adulthood and just don’t know how to begin or what to do to ensure that your health and safety remains a priority. You’re not alone, so don’t hesitate to get started and follow these guidelines:

1. Talk to a doctor  - seniors should never start a new exercise program without first consulting a doctor

2. Invest in the right clothing – the right clothing is important for anyone who’s engaged in a physical activity, but seniors who are sensitive to changing temperatures and at a greater risk for injury should be more cautious. Supportive, comfortable shoes are essential, and clothing should be loose yet flexible and breathable

3. Always warm-up – exercise should never begin without a warm-up to prevent injury. A low-impact activity can warm up muscles, get blood circulating and increase overall body temperature

4. Don’t start too quickly – early into an exercise program, seniors need to build their endurance. Going too hard, too fast can be physically damaging. Intensity can be built as endurance improves

5. Cool down – a cool down portion of a workout is as important as the warm-up. It allows the body to physically cool down and move into a state of rest

6. Schedule it in – to keep up the motivation to exercise, seniors should set their next workout!

Via: The Franklin Institute

Image Source: sxc.hu