Senior Sunrise

It seems like everyone has an older relative that’s broken a hip. Many times seniors who suffer broken hips never return from the hospital because the injuries are so difficult to recover from. Seniors do, however, have some control over how quickly they recover from a hip injury, or whether they succumb to a hip injury in the first place. Daily exercise is one way to practice injury prevention.

The hip extension is one of several senior workout exercises can do at home to strengthen the buttocks and lower-back muscles. Those with senior health issues or past injuries should consult their physicians before beginning the exercise.

Hip Extension

1. Standing 12 to 18 inches from a table or chair with the feet slightly apart.
2. Bend forward at hips at a 45-degree angle; hold onto a table or chair for balance.
3. Slowly lift one leg straight backwards without bending your knee, pointing your toes, or bending your upper body any farther forward.
4. Hold the position for 1 second.
5. Slowly lower leg. Pause.

Having the right tools is essential for any successful workout program. For seniors, it doesn’t take much resistance to create a quality workout. Exercise for the elderly is often as simple as taking a walk around the park or doing some light yard work. Some individuals may require more vigorous activities, and finding inexpensive and versatile senior exercise equipment is relatively simple.

Look for apparatuses that can be used for a variety of exercises, such as dumbbells and stability balls. A simple set of light dumbbells is all that you need to workout your entire body. For seniors, a little light exercise everyday goes a long way.