The Importance of Regular Exercise for Seniors
There are no specific areas labeled for seniors in an indoor gym and specific areas for people below 60 - So why do we categorize outdoor fitness equipment this way?
Community centers, housing developments, and senior centers have made a push to add outdoor fitness equipment to target the senior and the aging population over the last number of years. However, the equipment typically doesn't include features that provide this demographic with the same physical and mental health benefits they would receive if they were to exercise indoors. Seniors who exercise indoors or use real outdoor fitness equipment can experience several holistic health benefits such as:
- Better Brain Function
- Improved Mental Health
- Illness and Disease Prevention
- Maintain Independence
- Less Risk for Falling and Injury
- Stronger Social Connections
As we age, we lose muscle mass quicker than when we were younger. Outdoor fitness equipment that helps keep seniors independent includes functional fitness stations like plyometric boxes and resistance/weighted exercises. Plyometric boxes allow seniors to perform movements they use every day, such as going from the seated to standing position and step-ups. Leg strength is crucial for seniors to maintain because once their leg strength is gone, it can make it more challenging for them to get out of bed independently or climb a few flights of stairs.
With muscle building essential for seniors, outdoor fitness equipment with adjustable resistance will help them stay strong and independent. In an indoor gym, selectorized weight stack systems are popular amongst seniors because changing the weight is an easy movement for the body and offers dozens of full-body exercises.
The importance of physical activity does not go away the older we get, so exercise should be a part of your life whether you are 8 or 80. When we age and become senior citizens, regular exercise becomes more critical than ever to stay independent, healthy, and mobile.
Outdoor-Fit Exercise Systems has developed a product line that accommodates users of various ages and fitness abilities by bringing adjustability and functionality to the outdoor environment. Whether you are old or young, Outdoor-Fit's equipment will be something everyone will be able and will want to use.