‘I don’t move easily. I should start by walking’
Most people still have this idea that the best exercise is to walk, but that is only important if they actually can walk around.
You have to have strength and balance first. Muscle loss, known as sarcopenia, is why walking may not be enough to keep you moving independently.
Walking is great for your heart and can build muscle when done on inclines or with additional loads like holding weight in your hands.
Although it may not be as effective as strength training, it engages your legs and core.
Walking supports the spine when maintaining an upright posture; swinging your arms works your core to help with stability. muscles can hold, which helps us perform controlled movements. It is directly tied to the amount of movement someone is capable of performing, including mobility, stability and balance.
I want you to move pain-free. For older adults, improved muscle mass can lead to improved posture, joint health and a reduced risk of falling. take them through an evaluation. I’m looking at movement patterns that are a mix of mobility and stability.
These are movements that require neuromuscular and motor control, and the evaluation informs how I write that individual an exercise program that is safe for them.
The evaluation also helps the client understand why they need to work on certain movements.
Finally, I never hand someone a weight without knowing if their body can even support the load.
Email Kathleen Jaromin at trainwkatfl@iclould.com. Learn more about exercise classes and personal training sessions by visiting HF.org/pro-health, or call (321) 434-9153.