As individuals age beyond the threshold of 50 or 60 years, they often encounter challenges such as diminished mobility, decreased energy levels, heightened stiffness, and various health conditions that impede their ability to maintain an active lifestyle. In light of these challenges, should seniors engage in exercise without proper posture and guidance on technique, they face a significant risk of sustaining injuries and strains
“A study by NIH revealed that overexertion is the most common cause of workout injuries among old adults.”
That’s why elders need a reliable personal coach who can assist them in practicing appropriate exercises that work to strengthen their bodies while minimizing risks. Personal trainers for seniors will monitor and track the sessions to ensure safe practices and also effectively handle emergencies.
Scroll down to find out more about the vast number of benefits of training for the elderly.
Benefits of Personal Training for Seniors
Age-specific training
Old-aged people need more attention when starting workouts, and thus, personal trainers begin with an analysis of their client’s health, information about mobility, energy levels, bone density, underlying diseases, and other concerns.
Depending on these factors, the trainer would design a personalized plan for a workout that gives the right direction to the individual’s fitness level.
For example,
Mobility issues are one of the widespread concerns in elders.
| FYI: An estimated 19 million people experience some kind of mobility issue and 32% of the individuals said they start experiencing these problems at the age of around 50 years. |
Therefore, coaches will begin with gentle exercises that do not put much strain on joints and muscles. They suggest some gentle exercises for beginners, which could be as simple as walking or cycling. As their body copes with the workout, trainers would move towards more resistance-based options.
Reach Fitness Goals Safely With the Right Techniques
With old age, many individuals start encountering issues in comprehending and employing given instructions. As a repercussion, they might strain their body, get injured, or experience other problems.
Personal trainers, being focused on one-to-one practice, clearly convey the instructions and even repeat them over and over again if required. They help them maintain the right posture by demonstrating the exercises themselves.
Moreover, they focus on common problems like osteoporosis, which weakens bones, making them more susceptible to fractures. Several high-impact exercises like jumping or running can put a sudden strain on bones, raising the risk of breaks.
Personal trainers understand the risks and create programs that avoid high-impact activities and instead include low-impact, stable movements. Stronger muscles provide better support for bones and joints, reducing pain and improving stability.
Health Condition Management
Studies have found that there could be almost double the amount of people with at least one chronic disease, going from 71 million in 2020 to over 142 million in 2050.
These conditions, like diabetes, obesity, heart disease, asthma, and others, become less bothersome when the elders regularly indulge in physical activities.
Personal training helps in the effective management of such disorders as they keep in mind every minor or major health concern while designing an exercise plan. For instance, people with heart disease will be suggested cardio practices that work on blood circle enhancement and overall heart health strengthening while avoiding the ones that may result in rapid pumping.
Similarly for diabetes, they will design a workout that includes both cardio and strength training that helps your body utilize sugar better.
Nutrition Guidance
Personal trainers go beyond just providing guidance on physical training; they also help you achieve your fitness goals by recommending tailored nutrition plans.
Trainers can guide seniors towards nutrient-rich foods that support bone health, muscle function, and overall well-being. This might involve incorporating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources.
Moreover, for weight loss, trainers can help with portion control strategies and suggest easy-to-manage meal plans that fit an older adult’s lifestyle and preferences.
Overcoming Common Concerns
Difficulty in Balancing and Coordinating
Hardship in balance and coordination can contribute to falls and slips, and this concern is raised even more while exercising.
According to WHO, 28-35% of people aged 65 and 32-42% over 70 years of age fall each year.
To overcome this challenge, trainers incorporate exercises that improve stability and reduce fall risk.
By targeting muscles around your ankles, knees, and hips, strength training helps them become stronger. Stronger muscles provide better support for your joints, improving stability and balance.
Sensory Issues and Dementia
Vision or hearing problems can make it hard to follow the trainer’s instructions. Coaches can use clear verbal cues, demonstrate exercises visually, and provide alternative options if needed.
Also, they design safe and manageable exercise routines tailored to the individual’s cognitive abilities and physical limitations. This might involve simple walking routines, balance exercises, or chair-based workouts.
Fatigue and Energy Levels
Seniors may struggle with fatigue or low energy levels, making it challenging to engage in regular exercise. To resolve this concern, trainers find exercises that are appropriate for their energy levels and can be sustained over time.
Limited Flexibility
Decreased flexibility is common in seniors, which can make it challenging to perform certain movements or exercises that require a wide range of motion. Trainers ensure to start with basic strength exercises and gradually increase their level.
Conclusion
As much as physical activities are essential, the correct assistance is equally vital. Personal trainers ensure that elderly people work with the safest exercise options. By tackling age-related concerns, they will help elderly people live their best quality of life!