Growing old is unavoidable. But the problems that set in with age are avoidable to some extent. Physical exercise has been found to be extremely helpful in slowing down the process of ageing. This is to say that the symptoms that herald an advanced age, like slow body movements, low muscle flexibility and weakness, can be controlled through exercising. To be more specific, stretching exercises can increase muscle strength and mobility in seniors and can also help in enhancing body fitness.
There are stretching exercises for each particular muscle set. It is important that you get on touch with a professional fitness trainer who is a specialist in this field. He will be able to tell you what you need to do in order to retain the suppleness of your muscles and joints. Since there are different exercises for all the different muscles in your body, you need to be in the know of what each of the stretches does for your body. Here’s a brief look at some of them:
Back Stretch: As is evident from the name itself, this takes care of the back muscles and can be extremely helpful if you are suffering from back pain. Here you need to entwine your fingers and stretch your arms forward. Then lower your head till you feel your back muscles extend.
Triceps Stretch: This is for your triceps which is situated at the back of your arms. In is exercise you need to bend your left elbow behind your head and use your right hand to push it further inwards until you have a stretched feeling in your arm muscles. Repeat the same movement on the other side.
Hamstring Stretch: Here you need to put one leg on a chair and then lean forward without bending your back. This will strengthen your hamstrings.
Torso Stretch: This is for the flexibility and strength of your torso. It involves fairly simple movements like raising your hands up with fingers interlaced and palms facing outwards. Then start leaning on one side with your back straight until you feel your muscles stretching. Repeat the movement on the other side as well.
Though most of these stretch exercises are simple and are not very strenuous, it is still prudent to take sufficient precautions before you embark on any fitness training schedule. First and most important, you must consult with your doctor. If he thinks that it is alright for you to do stretching exercises despite your age and health conditions, only then it is safe to go ahead with it. You can also consider hiring a fitness trainer who will be a constant guide through the entire process and make sure that you do not go wrong or overtax your body. Apart from these, you need to remember the following points as well:
Do a proper warm up before you start with the stretch exercises. Do not rush through the workout. Take it slow and easy. Do not put too much pressure on your body. Do as much as you are comfortable with.
