| At least once a week, I hear a news segment about | | | | them have handles that you can use like ski poles, |
| our need to exercise on a regular basis. It's usually | | | | which helps tone your arms and upper body. Some |
| associated with a healthy diet, and both are a good | | | | of these can fold up, so having one in the home |
| idea. As you get older, though, the ability to exercise | | | | could be done with a minimum of space. |
| can change. The question comes up, how old is too | | | | Exercise Bikes: If you can handle it, this no impact |
| old? | | | | piece of equipment can provide aerobics. It is the |
| The answer is no one is too old to exercise. Your | | | | first machine recommended after my knee healed |
| routine may need to be changed, but the need | | | | and the physical therapy got my range of motion |
| remains. You may be amazed at how even those | | | | back. It does take up a good deal of space, so it |
| who can no longer walk can still do cardio programs. | | | | might be best to use one at a gym unless you have |
| Here are a few examples, some of which I've tried. | | | | plenty of room. |
| Aquatics: Swimming and other water exercises may | | | | Leg Extensions: Part of my physical therapy involved |
| be ideal. Even if you can swim, water aerobics can | | | | this exercise. The instructions are to sit on the edge |
| still be beneficial. These are done at the shallow end | | | | of a bed or chair, then slowly raise one leg up as far |
| of the pool, so anyone can participate. This form of | | | | as you can. Do this ten times, then rest. You may |
| exercise is no impact, so your joints are protected. | | | | need to ask your doctor how many repetitions you |
| The pull of the water can help burn more calories, as | | | | need to do to be effective. |
| well. | | | | Weights: Light hand weights may be ideal if you are |
| Chair-robics: Some park districts and senior centers | | | | capable and have access. Start with small weights |
| offer classes in this form of elderly exercise. You sit | | | | and gradually work your way up. If you belong to a |
| in a chair and move your arms and legs in rhythm | | | | gym, there are exercise machines that will let you do |
| with the trainer. This allows something akin to cardio, | | | | the same thing with your legs. |
| and can be done by people who have difficulty | | | | Before starting any exercise program, it's important |
| standing and walking. When I shattered my knee, I | | | | to talk to your doctor. He or she can discuss with |
| used this method to try to maintain the rest of my | | | | you which to choose and how long to do them. It |
| body while I was healing. | | | | may be suggested that you follow up a few months |
| Elliptical Trainers: Like aquatic exercise, this is no | | | | later to re-evaluate your program. Also mention any |
| impact, which comes in handy when you have | | | | medications, supplements or herbal remedies you are |
| arthritis or other problems in the joints. Some of | | | | using, and any medical conditions. |