5 of the Best Exercises for Older Adults

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says keeping active offers a wide range of benefits for older adults, reports the Atlanta Journal-Constitution . "Older adults can obtain significant health benefits with a moderate amount of physical activity, preferably daily," according to the agency. However, those engaging in exercise for the first time should do so gradually, while some exercises may be more appropriate for older adults than others. Barbara Bergin with Texas Orthopedics, Sports & Rehabilitation Associates recommends that older adults focus on workouts for building strength and improving balance rather than high-impact exercises such as running. Swimming is highly recommended, as it offers a good cardiovascular workout and is low impact for joints and bones. Meanwhile, the National Institute of Health endorses yoga as beneficial for strength, balance, and building muscle — as well as for stress relief and sleep. Walking is both easy and well-suited for current social distancing practices, while cycling, like swimming, is a low-impact exercise that benefits cardiovascular health. A fifth recommended workout is bodyweight exercises like chair squats, wall pushups, or stair climbing, which can maintain muscle health and prevent weight gain as one ages.