Exercises

As we age, some decline in physical fitness is inevitable. But scientific research has shown that after age 30, it is sedentary people who begin to lose their capacity to do physical activity more quickly than those who have been active all along. Studies have shown over and over that total decline is not inevitable-that exercise can slow down the aging process.

Exercise- physical activity- is really a tune-up of our hearts, muscles, and joints. An effective exercise program should do three things: challenge your heart and lungs aerobically, stretch and strengthen your muscles, and loosen your joints to make them flexible.

Structured fitness programs for seniors can be found everywhere, and are a good way to get started on a regular exercise program. Once started, you can do a lot of the exercise at home.

In this section of the website, we show you some exercises that will help you with the overall flexibility of the body.

Why flexibility is important to driving?

Flexibility permits drivers to move their entire body and all their joints more freely in order to observe the road from all angles. This can help alert drivers to potential hazards in unexpected areas on the road and with many of the driving requirements like braking, getting in and out of the car, looking to the side and rear, steering, parking the car, adjusting the seat belts, sitting for long periods of time, and help with posture and preventing fatigue.

Mary Schade plays goalie on the Senior Olympic Soccer team. See her demonstrate each exercise.