By performing indoor walking exercises such as stationary walking, speed walking, and knee lifts, you can reach your health goals. Even during the variety of weather seen in Lee's Summit, 28 minutes from Kansas City, you'll be able to stay active throughout the entire year.
To avoid being a part of the 37% of Missouri seniors who are inactive, indoor exercises are your greatest tool.
We're here to help you get started. Listed below are the easiest indoor walking exercises for you to begin your health journey with safety and accessibility. Continue reading to learn all you should know!
People tend to balk at the idea of walking indoors. They often believe there's not enough space to walk effectively or that they'll constantly bump into furniture.
They haven't thought about the idea of stationary walking.
This is when you hold yourself in a single spot, but move as though you were walking naturally down a sidewalk. It can feel awkward at first, but with a little practice, you can achieve the same level of workout as a regular walk.
For better mobility support for seniors, you can also do this while sitting in a sturdy chair. You'll work your muscles and get your heart pumping without any risk of falling.
If you feel confident in your level of walking, then speed walking is a good way to increase the difficulty. Find a long hallway that's clear of any obstacles, and begin walking back and forth as fast as you can.
You can also do this in the living area of your senior apartments, if there are no hallways long enough for your needs. Walk in a wide circle to achieve the same results.
Remember to listen to your body. Speed walking needs to be fast, but don't go so fast that you end up injuring yourself or putting yourself at risk for falling.
Looking for a way to mix balance-building workouts with your walking workout? Knee lifts can be added seamlessly to regular walking, although the frequency of including them will depend on your physical level.
The above are only suggestions. Feel free to come up with a unique system that works best for you.
This style of walking breaks up the monotony of typical walking, while helping you build your balance and thigh muscles more quickly. The next time you join a senior activity or event, you'll be ready for anything.
This exercise can be done in two ways: stationary or by walking forward. Regardless of your chosen style, you'll want to move your feet from one side to the other as you either stay in one spot or you walk.
It's easier to start by staying stationary as you begin. You'll get used to the motions and how to plant your feet without adding motion to the exercise.
Once you feel comfortable, feel free to start walking while side-stepping. You can pretend you're walking across a river full of stepping stones to make the entire experience more charming and fun.
This walking exercise should always be considered in a list of winter movement ideas. It boosts the exercise into a full-body workout that's easy to complete, no matter your mobility level.
To complete this style of exercise, you only need to follow the title.
Step forward twice, then punch with your right hand. Extend it all the way in front of you, keeping it steady and level with the floor beneath you.
Step forward twice again, then punch with your left hand.
It feels a little stilted at first, but it's a great workout that is easier to do as you practice. With enough time, you'll have no trouble keeping each movement as seamless as the next.
As with most workouts, your indoor exercises need to require effort without pushing you too far. If the exercise is too easy, it's time to increase it. If the exercise is too difficult, you need to re-evaluate.
It also needs to be something that you can do regularly. Walking routines indoors already have a controlled environment, making it easier to stay on track with your workout schedule.
All that's left is the mental fortitude.
Get friends to join you, which can often be a boost in morale for everyone. Otherwise, try listening to a good audiobook or podcast as you walk. This can entice you to walk again since you want to know what happens next.
With the right balance between a moderate workout and a healthy diet, walking can play a key role in reducing belly fat. When you incorporate arm movements with your walk, you're giving yourself a full-body workout.
Walking also gives your body other vital benefits, including:
Not at all. In fact, safe exercise in assisted living often means avoiding machines of any type. While a treadmill can be a tool for indoor exercise, you definitely don't need one.
It might end up pushing you too fast when you're not ready. It can also turn a simple stumble into a severe injury.
Using your body and a clear pathway can be enough to give you an effective workout.
Dedication to your indoor walking exercises can sometimes be difficult to find. There are days when the idea of exercise can be daunting. That's why finding a supportive senior community is your greatest tool to a happier and healthier lifestyle.
By joining Addington Place of Lee's Summit, you'll gain access to a thriving senior community that will support your health goals. Our maintenance-free amenities and individualized care plans will give you the support you need to enjoy your retirement to the fullest.
Schedule a tour by contacting us today and see our welcoming community with your own eyes!