In-Home Fitness Solutions for Baby Boomers
No matter how fit we are, as we age our metabolism slows and we begin to lose muscle mass. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes exercise, strength training, eating right and simply staying on the move can make a big difference in how you look as you age, how you feel physically, and how well you maintain the ability to do all the things you love: spending time with friends and family, doing activities with grandchildren, or travel.
In the Albany – Saratoga Springs NY area, baby boomer fitness solutions get a little more challenging during the winter months. Maintaining strength and flexibility all year round is key, and how well you can accomplish that may be determined by a number of different factors:
Physical Inactivity
It’s easy to get complacent as we age. According to the American Heart Association, the average adult sits between 6 to 8 hours a day. There can be a number of reasons for this, beginning with the inevitable slowdown of our metabolisms. Perhaps there is an illness or injury that limits mobility. Maybe you have put on some pounds and feel helpless to reverse that trend. Whatever the reason, exercise does require effort, and having fitness equipment right in your home can help get you over that hurdle.
Consistency
Weather, traffic, or physical barriers can be a problem for baby boomers who want to walk, bike, or workout. Running through a rainstorm or biking in traffic may have been acceptable in our younger years, but is no longer an option. Accessibility to home fitness equipment, even if it is only a single piece, can ensure your ability to stay on track and set reasonable goals, as well as maintain your safety.
- Walking is one of the best physical activities we can do for our bodies. A 150-pound person burns about 100 calories by walking at a moderate pace for 30 minutes, whether it’s around the block or on a treadmill. If you are looking for convenience, accessibility, and safety in your exercise, a high quality treadmill that is affordable and low profile (to save space) may be just the ticket for ensuring you get that walk-in every single day!
- A home gym is a great solution for baby boomers who want to work out regularly at home. They don’t require a lot of space (a den or extra bedroom will do), are affordable, and definitely offer an opportunity to be consistent in your workout no matter what the time of day or the weather… and no gym fees required! The right home gym can help you maintain flexibility, strength and overall wellness.
- Add some simple strength training into your fitness routine to help maintain strong bones and increase energy. There are a number of ways to work out at home using free weights, tubes and stretch bands that are low impact, and can return benefits as you age.
Custom In-Home Workouts
Variety is the spice of life, and using a home gym allows you to create the setting, activity level and goals you desire. For post-50 adults, working out at home can be extremely beneficial – and fun! Be sure to check with your doctor before beginning any physical regimen, avoid overexertion, and consider meeting with a personal trainer before you begin to help you get started.
Staying fit can increase energy, build strong bones and help to maintain greater independence as you age. According to this article by the Center for Disease Control (CDC), physical activity can even reduce pain and improve the quality of life improve symptoms and for adults with conditions like arthritis.
For seniors in Albany – Saratoga Springs, baby boomer fitness can include both outside and in-home physical fitness options. The experts at Concepts in Fitness can help you choose the right equipment for your home and activity level. Our knowledgeable staff can provide you with the 1:1 support you are looking for, and answer all of your questions. We carry several brands of club quality home fitness equipment at competitive prices.