Indoor Walking Workout for Seniors in Marietta, GA
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An indoor walking workout allows seniors in Marietta, GA, a town renowned for its quaint, historic charm, to control their exercise environment. They don't have to worry about inclement weather or exterior safety concerns. Indoor walking provides low-impact exercise options for older adults who prefer to exercise indoors.
Are you worried that an indoor walk won't be as effective as an outdoor one? This is one of the main misconceptions about senior fitness ideas, which take traditional forms of exercise and adapt them to meet a variety of needs.
Fortunately, an indoor walk can provide just as many benefits as one taken outdoors, especially for those seeking safe memory care activities and events that boost overall health.
The question is: What's involved with an indoor walking workout for adults? Here's what you need to know to stay healthy and get in shape from the comfort of your own home!
Does Walking Inside Your House Count as Exercise?
Absolutely! When you move and elevate your heart rate, you're improving your cardiovascular health, which is ideal for assisted living wellness.
What's different about an indoor walk is that you're not exposed to the same level of fresh air and sunshine that you would be if you walked outside. However, there are ways around this. You can open your windows or pull back the curtains.
As far as exercise is concerned, you're still getting plenty of benefits. For example, consider the following:
- Heart
- Muscles
- Joints
These parts of your body benefit from the exercise of an indoor walk.
If you have a particularly sedentary lifestyle and are looking to increase your physical fitness gradually, or if you're creating a physical fitness plan, an indoor walk is an ideal option. You can improve your endurance and start small.
You can also focus on improving your mobility and balance, especially if you need short-term care support.
What Are Some Benefits of Indoor Walking?
Indoor walking is also suitable for seniors concerned about their mobility. When walking outside, you run the risk of encountering fall hazards.
This includes:
- Uneven sidewalks
- Cracks in the pavement
- Curbs
- Traffic
- People walking their pets
However, when you walk indoors, you control your atmosphere. You can also control your pace and don't have to keep up with what other people are doing.
The length of time you want to walk is entirely up to you. There's no concern about having to finish a lap.
Since you're already at home, this means you can take a break at any time with ease. Depending on your exercise level, walking is highly adaptable, making it an ideal exercise.
Another great benefit of indoor walking as an exercise for seniors is that it's ideal for maintaining mental health. If you want to turn it into a social activity, you can invite friends and family to join you, regardless of the weather.
You might even want to swing your arms while walking or incorporate light weights or resistance bands. This lets you get more out of this exercise.
As with any exercise routine, always consult your physician before starting and stop if you feel overwhelmed. You don't want to push yourself.
How Long Should an Indoor Walk Be?
This depends on your activity level when beginning a new exercise program. If you're a beginner, it's a good idea to start with a ten- to 15-minute walk. As you become more comfortable, you work your way up to 30 minutes a day, five days a week.
What matters is listening to your body. Take breaks if you need them. If you feel lightheaded, dizzy, out of breath, or experience any pain, stop exercising and contact your physician immediately. Safety is what matters most.
Do I Need Any Special Equipment?
No. You need breathable clothing and comfortable shoes with a good grip. This helps prevent falls.
If you're not new to exercise and your doctor approves, consider adding light weights or resistance bands. You can ask a friend or family member to lend you their weights if you don't want to purchase your own.
Also, be sure to have plenty of water handy. Dehydration can sneak up on you, especially with an indoor exercise routine, so take frequent sips even if you don't feel thirsty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Exercise With a Friend?
Yes! One of the best things about indoor walking is that it provides a program that allows you to get in shape and socialize.
Head to the mall when it's not busy and get in a few laps, or walk around your living room. Just be sure to remove clutter.
Does Walking Indoors Burn Calories?
Yes, just like any other type of physical activity. Since walking indoors engages various muscles, you're working to burn calories.
Is Indoor Walking Better With Music?
This depends, but if you're looking to stay motivated, consider creating an exercise playlist. However, some people prefer to focus on their breath or open the windows and enjoy the sounds of nature. It all depends on your preference.
Can I Make Indoor Walking a Game?
Yes, indoor walking is an excellent game, especially if you count steps or set a timer. You don't want to push yourself too hard, but you can track your progress to make the experience more enjoyable.
What Are the Safety Concerns About Walking Indoors?
If you have pets, keep them out of your exercise area to avoid a fall hazard. Clear clutter, remove loose cords, and pick up rugs. Ensure plenty of lighting and wear comfortable, supportive shoes with a good grip.
Enjoy an Indoor Walking Workout From Home
An indoor walking workout is a great alternative to exercising outdoors. It helps seniors avoid inclement weather, and its ease of convenience works to keep you motivated. Additionally, you can improve your overall health while socializing, making this an activity that you can enjoy with friends and neighbors.
At Greenwood Place, an Assisted Living and Memory Care community that's as vibrant as it is welcoming, we take the time to ensure all residents benefit from exercise plans. You can enjoy a weight training class, which perfectly complements an indoor walk, followed by an afternoon of snacks and stories. The benefits won't be just physical; they'll be felt in the connections you form with other residents.
Contact us today to visit our incredible neighborhood!