Indoor Walking Tips for Seniors in Kendallville, IN

Indoor walking is a growing trend for all ages. It's the solution when you can't walk outside.

According to the CDC, nearly85% of seniors 65 years old and older don't get enough exercise. Indoor walking is an easy way to fix this.

Kendallville senior living communities provide small-town charm with beautiful parks and urban amenities. Maintain your winter fitness indoors when the weather won't let you enjoy these outdoor features.

Read on to learn about indoor walking for seniors.

Benefits of Walking

Walking is one of the easiest exercises to do, and it's also one of the most beneficial. It'll improve your body and brain.

Physical Benefits

Walking is one of the best home mobility routines for seniors because it's low-impact. It doesn't hurt their joints.

It can improve them and lead to better flexibility and bone health. This helps retain bone mass and reduce the risk of conditions such as osteoporosis.

Walking may seem too simple to lead to significant balance improvement, but that's not the case. It improves coordination and reduces the risk of falls.

There are also two common benefits that apply to almost any form of movement. Walking improves cardiovascular fitness and can help with weight management.

All of these improvements can also lead to better sleep. Moving more during the day can help you rest better at night.

Mental and Emotional Benefits

Exercise isn't only about the way it affects your body but also how it affects your mind.

It naturally releases endorphins, which improve mood. It also leads to better cognitive function.

Social Benefits

According to Michigan Medicine, 1 in 3 seniors report feelings of loneliness or isolation. Indoor walking doesn't have to be an isolated experience.

You can join up with friends to hold each other accountable for sticking to your routines. You can also join a walking group or go out with fellow residents of assisted living in Knedallville, Indiana.

What Is a Good Beginner Walking Routine for Seniors?

Start with short sessions. Try a 5-minute warmup, 5-minute walk, and 5-minute cooldown.

Build up to 30 minutes and 100 steps a minute. Work up to this goal at your own pace and don't rush yourself.

How Long Should an Indoor Walk Be?

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week. You can break that up however is best for your body.

Try five 30-minute sessions throughout the day. Shorter walks throughout the day also work. Every step counts.

Practical Indoor Walking Tips

Walking is so common that it can become automatic. If you want to use it as part of a fitness routine, make a plan and set goals.

Be Prepared

Stay hydrated as you walk. Bring water bottles along with you.

Bring the right shoes. Use comfortable walking shoes that are your size instead of flats or high heels. They'll help you walk better and lessen any pain you may feel. They'll also prevent slips and falls.

Have a Complete Routine

Incorporate a warm-up and cooldown process before and after your walk. It helps preserve your joints and muscles.

One of the best senior strength tips is to add strength training to walking. Try low-impact options such as small weights or arm swings.

Set Goals

Set specific goals for your exercise routine.

Make sure you can track them with tools such as a step tracker. Knowing what you're striving for will help keep you motivated.

Find Ways to Make the Process Easier and More Fun

Find easy walking ideas to bump up your steps. There are several ways to walk a bit more, even when you're inside, such as:

Taking the steps instead of an elevator or escalator
Going on a longer path to your destination
Getting items for friends

Listen to music or a podcast while you walk. It makes the process more enjoyable and helps the time fly.

Join a group class for even more of this effect. Talking it through with friends makes it fly by. Make use of the activities and amenities in your senior living community, Kendallville, IN.

Safety Considerations

Falls are the leading cause of injury for seniors. According to the National Council on Aging, one in four Americans over 65 falls every year. This makes safety one of the most important considerations when developing a walking routine.

Seniors with mobility concerns should always walk on sturdy surfaces. They should always use aids such as walkers or canes when they need them.

Remove anything in your home that could get in the way before you start indoor walking. That includes:

Clutter
Cords
Loose rugs

Talk to your doctor about the best routine for you. If you get dizzy or fatigued, pause and reevaluate.

FAQ

Does Walking In Your Home Count as Exercise?

Yes, indoor walking absolutely qualifies as exercise. It does everything any other exercise would do.

Walking gets your heart rate up and burns calories. It can also activate your muscles to improve your strength and balance.

Can I Lose Belly Fat By Walking?

Yes, you can lose weight and belly fat by walking. The key is that you keep it consistent and intense enough to be considered aerobic. Aim for 30-60 minutes most days of the week.

It's also important to combine your walk with a healthy diet. The only way to lose weight is to burn more calories than you eat.

What Is the Best Exercise If You Can't Walk?

If you can't walk long distances, try walking in place. It still gets your heart rate up and can have many of the same benefits.

There are exercises for those who have a disability or condition that prevents them from walking at all, such as:

Arthritis
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Osteoporosis
Multiple sclerosis

Chair exercises are an option. There are several to choose from. A few options are:

Leg extensions
Heel raises
Pelvis tilts
Shoulder squeezes

You could also try chair yoga or chair tai chi. They can help improve your flexibility and strength. They can also make you more relaxed.

Find Assisted Living in Kendalville, Indiana, Today

Indoor walking routines help seniors, especially during winter.

Chandler Place assisted living offers compassionate care in a warm environment. Each home's features cater to individual needs. We make every day special with day trips and on-site activities ranging from board games to concerts.