What are the best cardio workouts for older people to do at home?
Hi Zhada,
I would take each client individually and assess their fitness level, health condition, and lifestyle and goals. Those over 50 can vary greatly in their abilities (I’m 48 and would like to think that at 50 I can still do all of the same things I do and enjoy now like boxing, HIIT, walking, and strength/circuit training) 🙂
It’s hard to give you suggestions for your client with bad knees when we don’t know much about his or her health history, and why the knees are bad. Is the client overweight or does the client have an injury or arthritis? Walking can be good, but so is swimming because it’s easy on the joints–and good cardio. Is there a reason you said no swimming?
Best,
Christine
Hello Zhada Eaves,
There is no reason older adults can’t do anything they enjoy; as long as they are cleared by the physician and have no contraindications. If you have any doubts, getting a doctor clearance would decide if and what restrictions are in order.
I agree with Christine that each client is an individual in which age is not the only predictor of how to design exercise programs.
The best cardio for older people at home is what they enjoy, can do safely, and is approved by both doctor and trainer. Then let the client try different activities to see what helps the knees. How about finding a trainer near her to do a personal assessment, that would be the best way to handle this.
Thank you,
Natalie aka NAPS 2 B Fit.
Since I am 50, I resent the implication that being over 50 is older 🙂
She should probably find out from her physician or physiotherapist what the cause of the knee and foot pain is. This will help you determine the best course of action for her. Is it arthritis, muscle imbalance or just improper footwear? If she doesn’t want to walk, then she might do better with a resistance training program, maybe alternating with some non impact movements to keep the heart rate up and maximize her time.
For the senior population, sometimes if they are in an assisted living or facility, their is a stair case present. A lot of times with advanced senior clients we will walk the stairs together. If not, I like going outside with senior clientele that way they get more social exposure in addition to the cardio benefit.
Eric Leader
Owner, www.everybodyspersonaltrainer.com