Strengthening joints and agility
One key benefit of personal training for seniors is the ability to improve joint mobility and agility. Aging affects the ability to move in a variety of ways, and this can increase your risk of falls and injuries. Agility-based exercise training is as effective as traditional strength and balance training. Agility-based exercises improve trunk extension and lower limb explosive strength.
The warmer weather is the perfect excuse to get outside and get active. Seniors must keep their joints and bodies strong and agile to avoid injury and maintain their independence. Walking is a great way to get blood flowing and improve your agility. It also helps you stay social.
Maintaining good posture
As a senior, it is important to have good posture. While sitting or standing, try to maintain a slight “S” curve in your spine. It is also helpful to keep your head and shoulders up and in a neutral position. If you are experiencing back pain or neck discomfort, see a physical therapist. Many Medicare Advantage plans cover physical therapy and fitness programs.
Proper posture can improve circulation and oxygenation of the body. This leads to an improved mood and increased energy. It can also prevent injuries and pain. Proper posture also boosts brain communication. It can help with memory recall and reduces the risk of heart attacks and stroke.
Using music to motivate
Music has a powerful psychological effect on human beings. Depending on the type of music, it can cause changes in thought patterns, behavior and mood. It can also physically affect levels of hormones. Music, in particular, increases serotonin levels, which is a “feel good” hormone. By listening to music that makes us feel good, we can elevate our mood and increase our endurance during workouts.
Researchers conducted a study to find whether using music to motivate personal training can improve the health of older adults. They recruited a convenience sample of seniors from seven senior centers in southern Taiwan. They evaluated participants’ functional fitness at the beginning of the intervention, three months later and at the end of the study. The results showed that the music group had a greater effect on overall health, fitness and quality of life than the control group.
Reassuring older clients
When working with older clients, it’s essential to be aware of their age and have a positive attitude. They are more likely to have physical limitations and injuries than younger clients, and personal trainers must never underestimate this. The first session is an excellent opportunity to assess the client’s fitness level, identify any injuries, and determine their goals. These assessments can be done anywhere, and can take between 30 minutes and an hour.
Keeping the centre of gravity low and using exercises that increase balance is also essential for older clients. Aging can affect a person’s balance, so it’s important to avoid exercises that are too advanced for them. For instance, single-leg balances, which require balance and strength, should be modified to make them safe.
Reducing risk of injury
When it comes to exercise, seniors need to avoid overdoing it and risking injury. While the CDC reports that exercise is generally safe for seniors who are healthy and do not have any underlying health conditions, they should still consult with a doctor before beginning any new exercise regimen. There are several simple steps that can help seniors minimize their risks.
Exercise can help reduce the risk of falls and other injuries. Falls are a leading cause of death and public health issues in the elderly and are costly for the healthcare system. They can also lead to temporary immobility and increased pain in patients. Furthermore, falls can cause long-term effects for seniors, including loss of muscle mass, endurance, and functional range of motion.
