With the current health crisis affecting the world, many people have been spending the majority of their time indoors. Certain areas have restrictions on when and why you’re allowed to leave your home, and your ability to travel has likely been limited to emergencies only. Staying cooped up indoors can be difficult for some, especially those who spend their leisure time outdoors. Staying active during this time is beneficial to both your mental and physical health. Try some of these helpful tips for getting active while indoors this season:
Indoor Exercises
Whether you walk outdoors to stay active or regularly go to a gym that is temporarily closed, there are exercises you can do from your home or assisted living residence that will allow you to keep active during your extra time indoors:
- Pilates
- Yoga
- Stationary Bike
- Lifting 5-10lb. Dumbell Weights
- Stair Stepping
- Wall Push-Ups
- Marching in Place
- Toe Lifts
- Shoulder Rolls
- Hand and Finger Exercises
Basic Balance Training
Older adults and those with disabilities can benefit greatly from practicing regular balance exercises. Here are a few simple activities that can safely improve your balance:
- Hold onto the back of a chair and lift one leg at a time. Hold each leg for 5-10 seconds, then slowly lower the leg. Repeat 10 times and switch to your other leg.
- Walk heel-to-toe for 20 steps and place arms out for extra balance if necessary.
- Stand with feet hip-width apart with your hands on your hips. Lift one leg off of the floor and bend it back slightly at the knee. Hold for 30 seconds then switch legs.
How Staying Active Can Benefit You
Each type of physical activity provides its own set of benefits for aging adults. Strength-training exercises keep your bones healthy, can prevent falls, reduce arthritic pain, and improve mobility. Pilates and yoga promote core strength and stability, and also works to improve mental well-being. Cycling helps to improve cardiovascular health by reducing strain on the joints.
Get the Mobility Equipment that Makes Staying Active Easier
At Freedom Mobility, we are dedicated to providing mobility equipment in Maryland that benefits people with a wide variety of needs. Whether you have mobility issues due to a temporary injury or a chronic illness, we’re sure to have the mobility solution for you. Reach out to us today to learn more about the equipment we have for rent or purchase in our Hanover, MD showroom.