As senior citizens get older it is very important to stay active in order to maintain overall health. Some of you cannot exercise like you use to, but you can still workout and keep safe at the same time. Here are some tips to help you.

I recommend checking with your doctor if you have not worked out in over a year. It is wise to get a check up once a year any way, so while your there ask about an exercise program.

It is important to do something that you enjoy when thinking about a fitness plan. It could be lifting weights or walking on a treadmill. Any exercise is better than nothing at all. I find that seniors love to workout provided that the exercise routines are fun.

Most seniors like to workout with a trainer or a partner. I feel the reason for this is that they feel comfortable with someone helping them with their exercises. If it makes them train harder and safer then it's great for them.

Some seniors nowadays are in such good shape they can help me workout. I'm always amazed at what some senior citizens can do in a gym. Quite a few of them are still very strong and muscular. I can only hope that I will be in that good of shape.

If you never worked out or starting to get back into the swing of things. I would start off very slow at first. The individual does not want to hurt themselves right off the starting block. Take your time and the strength and endurance will come back gradually. You will have some muscle soreness when starting off. Just don't overdo it at first. The body has ways to overcome muscle soreness with rest and proper nutrition.

Starting out a fitness plan for senior citizens, I would recommend setting some short- term goals to get going. It could be something like walking a block. Walking on the treadmill, or even lifting some light weights. The more goals you set the more likely the person will keep exercising and making progress.

Please make sure you stay hydrated by drinking water throughout your workouts. Staying hydrated will also help if you suffer from cramping.

Also please make sure you have good fitted sneakers. It's very important for your safety to have a nice pair of sneakers.

Please stretch before and after you exercise. Your body will love this and prevent injuries. As we get older our joints and ligaments shorten, so stretching helps to elongate the muscle.

As senior citizens it is wise to start a fitness routine in order to maintain a healthy body and mind. It won't take long once you have a fitness plan to see great results.

Author's Bio: 

I'm writing this article to help you realize how important exercise and nutrition is to your overall health and physical appearance. Exercise and nutrition helps with arthritis, diabetes, depression, motivation, weight loss, lowering cholesterol, flexibility and muscle definition.

If you are interested in getting into shape, or want some information on this subject. I have just completed my report, "How To Start A Fitness Program And Get Results In Just 30 Days."

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Marc Ouellette is a certified personal trainer who has helped many people reach their goals by incorporating strength training, cardiovascular exercise and nutritional guidance.