Best Type of Exercise Equipment for the Elderly

Exercise is important for older adults to help prevent diseases and remedy age-related muscle loss. The best types of exercise equipment for the elderly are simple to use and easy to find. A chair, ankle and hand weights, treadmill and exercise bike are a few examples.  

Overview

Exercising regularly should be a part of everyone's fitness routine, especially for older adults. As people age, it becomes even more important to ward off cardiovascular disease and risks for diabetes by doing aerobic exercise. Strength training is also important for the elderly. The best types of exercise equipment for older adults are easily accessible.

Treadmill

A treadmill comes in handy, particularly when the weather is extreme. Walking in the cold or heat can be bothersome or problematic. A treadmill allows an older person to get exercise while watching a television show or talking to others.

Exercise Bike

Riding an exercise bike helps to increase circulation and the heart rate. Cardiovascular fitness is important for the elderly, and an exercise bike prevents impact on the joints associated with running or jogging.     

Weights

Ankle or hand weights are also useful pieces of exercise equipment. Starting with a small amount of weight allows older adults to maintain strength in the muscles of the arms and legs. 

An Ordinary Chair

A sturdy chair can be a useful piece of equipment used for daily exercise. Some exercise videos for seniors require sitting in a chair if balance is an issue. Alternatively, standing and holding on to a chair can be useful, particularly when standing on one leg.