Seniors complete a variety of exercise programs to stay healthy and improve their bodies. However, many seniors take on the programs without consulting their doctor first. This could increase the risk of accidents and injuries. Too often, seniors may attempt to complete exercises designed for much younger bodies. This could have devastating results. Seniors can review five exercises to avoid keeping them safer and find better alternatives.

1. High-Impact Aerobics

Doctors do not recommend that any senior follow a high-impact aerobic workout program. The high-impact exercises lead to joint damage and could increase the risk of muscle injuries. The exercises apply too much pressure on the joints and may lead to knee or hip surgery.

Seniors should follow a low-impact exercise program that doesn’t involve fast movements such as jumping or running. Retirement communities provide a variety of exercise programs that are ideal for seniors. Seniors can learn more about senior independent living by contacting a community administrator now.

2. Situps

Situps apply too much pressure on the back muscles, and many seniors have a tough time standing up after sitting on the floor. The exercises could increase the risk of back injuries or apply too much pressure on the abdominal wall. Doctors recommend standing abdominal twists instead. The seniors get the same results as a situp without the extra strain on the back or body. They won’t have to worry about falling down in an attempt to get up off the floor. Some seniors could sustain a knee injury from the impact of their body weight on the joint.

3. Deep Squats

Deep squats are great for younger individuals, but they apply the person’s full body weight onto their thighs and knees. Doctors don’t recommend squats for seniors since the exercises throw them off balance. The seniors may fall backward and become injured while attempting to complete the exercises. They can also cause knee injuries or pull thigh muscles. Doctors recommend chair sits as an alternative that could give them the same benefits without the risks.

4. Sprinting or Extensive Running

Walking and slow-paced jogging on a treadmill is better choices for seniors than sprinting or extensive running. Seniors who have jogged throughout their lives are conditioned to perform the exercises. However, the aging process makes it more difficult in later years to run at higher speeds. Walking on a treadmill is safer, and the senior can complete the exercises in a climate-controlled location. They can also complete a slow-paced jog on the treadmill by adjusting the speed.

5. Standing Toe Touches

Older seniors shouldn’t attempt standing toe touches for many reasons. First, it applies too much pressure on the back and could cause a muscle injury. The exercise can also cause lightheadedness when they stand up. This could lead to disorientation, dizziness, or even a fall. Seniors should try sitting down to toe touches. The exercise pulls on the leg muscles, but the senior won’t become dizzy or fall down.

Seniors start exercise programs to improve their health and improve existing medical conditions. However, some seniors may take the wrong approach and try exercises that aren’t great for their bodies. The exercises could lead to injuries that require surgical correction. When starting any exercise program, seniors should consult their doctor first. Their doctor can explain what exercises could have detrimental effects.