Strength-Building Equipment for Older Adults

June 17, 2022

Benefits of Building Strength for Older Adults

There are a wide range of options when it comes to strength-building exercises for older adults. For those seeking convenient activities they can fit around their daily routine, body-weight exercises are a great option. These are activities that don’t require any equipment, and simply use the body’s own weight for resistance such as squats. If they want to increase the amount of different exercises they can do, equipment such as dumbbells or machines like you’d see in a gym are great options.

Whichever route is best, make sure that that every workout begins with at least a 5-10 minute warmup such as walking, then stretching at least the body parts you’ll be working out. This will reduce the chances of injury while exercising, and lead to less soreness and inflammation in the days following the workout. Talking with your doctor can be a great way to determine an appropriate level of activity, and starting slow and working your way up to the right level of activity is always a good way to go.

Important Factors to Consider While Shopping

The most important factor to consider is what level of strength someone is starting from. For those who are limited in mobility, or lack in strength, it’s best to start with body-weight workouts that can be adjusted for various limitations. For those who already have some strength and fitness ability, something like dumbbells would be great. Consider the fitness goals that are trying to be reached. What tools will help with those workouts?

Talking with a doctor or physician is also a great way to determine the proper level of activity, and they can also help in setting appropriate fitness goals.

Best Workout Equipment for Older Adults

Yoga Mats

Yoga mats are useful for a variety of strength-building exercises. They provide a soft surface to exercise on, reducing the impact on joints and the body overall.

Yoga Ball

Yoga balls are a great way to mix up different core exercises, but also increase balance and stability simply by sitting on them throughout the day. Make sure some sort of support is available while first using a yoga ball, as they do require an intermediate level of hip/core strength and balance.

Grip Strength Trainers

Grip strength is an area that many older adults are lacking in. Grip strength decreases over time, but using tools such as these to train grip and hand strength can go a long way towards gaining that strength back.