The Benefits of Exercise

You see it all the time, almost daily… The Benefits of Exercise. On the news, in the newspaper, in your favorite magazine, even on the radio… Whether you exercise or not, you can’t deny the benefits. Even the most modest exercise program can bring great positive benefits like these:

• Maintain a normal weight
• Boosted immune system
• Enhanced brain function
• Improved appearance
• Improved bone density
• Improved sleep
• Improved digestion
• Improved mobility
• Improved libido
• Decreased stress and anxiety
• Increased energy and health

My fitness classes deliver the right amount of fun with the proper exercises that help seniors become stronger and healthier. The tremendous positive benefits of exercise have been widely reported, including the reduction of Alzheimer’s and dementia symptoms. Many positive outcomes concerning exercise and cancers, heart disease, and diabetes are documented, as well as increases in mobility and strength, and just feeling better. However…if the exercises are unsafe or not effective, the benefits are minimal or worse; they can be harmful.

“Your health account and your bank account, they’re the same thing. The more you put in, the more you can take out. Exercise is the king and nutrition is the queen.”

-Jack LaLanne, known as the Grandfather of Fitness

The following information was taken from an article in the Dallas Morning News, June 5, 2019, titled:

Fatal falls rise among seniors

New research shows fatal falls have nearly tripled in older Americans in recent years, rising to more than 25,000 deaths yearly. The findings highlight the importance of fall prevention. A separate study bolsters evidence that programs focusing on improving strength and balance can help achieve that goal.

Deaths from falls have increased because older people are living longer, and some seniors are affected with health issues because of that, and some medications can make older people prone to falling as well.

6 steps in preventing falls

1. Find a good balance and exercise program
2. Ask your doctor for an assessment of your falling
3. Regularly review your medications with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure side effects aren’t increasing your risk of falling
4. Get your hearing and vision checked annually
5. Keep your home safe by removing tripping hazards, increasing lighting and installing grab bars
6. Enlist your family members support in taking simple steps to stay safe