Calisthenics and Stretching for the Elderly

The Age Difference in Fitness Training
Calisthenics and stretching for the elderly may be different from that followed by the younger set. It must be understood that aging brings with it certain conditions that might affect the ability of older individuals to perform certain activities.

Fitness professionals are usually sensitive to how older people may and may not be able to do because of their age. Certain limits are already being followed in order to prevent the elderly to find themselves at risk of injury because of doing certain fitness activities that are no longer applicable to their circumstances.

The first and foremost consideration of developing a program of calisthenics and stretching for the elderly may concern the recommendations of the physician. It is important for the elderly to first consult their doctor before they try to get into any type of strenuous fitness regimen. Doctors need to look into an older patient's blood pressure, medical condition as well as other physical characteristics in order to help provide suggestions as to what type and level of exercise such a patient may be able to accomplish without increasing the risks of injury.

Calisthenics and stretching for the elderly should try to focus on gaining or restoring strength, endurance and muscle flexibility. These are the physical characteristics that are decreased as people age especially if they find themselves in prolonged inactivity. Exercising using gravity as resistance can help to strengthen muscles. Aerobic exercises such as swimming or brisk walking can help build up endurance. Stretching exercises such as those employed in such activities as yoga, pilates and calisthenics can help improve flexibility.