After a winter break, many individuals may consider returning to an exercise routine, recognising the importance of staying active as they age. However, restarting exercise without proper guidance can lead to unnecessary strain or injury, particularly if there have been changes in your physical condition during the break. This is where professional exercise advice becomes crucial.
Engaging a qualified Exercise Physiologist ensures that your exercise program is tailored to your current fitness level, taking into account any health conditions or limitations. A professional can assess your mobility, strength, and overall health, and then design a program that gradually reintroduces physical activity in a safe and effective manner. This personalised approach helps to minimise the risk of injury while maximising the benefits of exercise, such as improved cardiovascular health, better mobility, and increased strength.
In addition, professionals can monitor your progress and adjust the program as needed, ensuring that it remains challenging yet appropriate as you build strength and endurance. This ongoing support is particularly important for older adults, as it helps to maintain motivation and ensures that the exercises remain aligned with your evolving health needs.
A recent report identified that just two weeks on inactivity by older adults can lead to detraining, resulting in reduced muscle strength, size and endurance. Sadly, the older you get, the quicker and more significant this detraining can occur. If you have had a cold or flu over the winter season this too can impact your level of fitness and the amount of detraining you experienced. Just assuming you will be
For these reasons and given the specific needs of older adults, it’s essential to approach exercise with care and knowledge. Clinics like HFRC, which specialise in exercise rehabilitation and physiotherapy, are well-equipped to provide this level of expertise. Their experience in working with older populations ensures that you receive a program that is not only effective but also safe.
Ultimately, restarting an exercise program should be approached thoughtfully, with professional advice playing a key role in ensuring that the transition back to regular activity is smooth and beneficial. Prioritising expert guidance will help you enjoy the many health benefits of exercise, while reducing the likelihood of setbacks.
If you are contemplating restarting your exercise program, the guidance of an Exercise Physiologist is an investment worth considering.
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