Team Franciscan Center: Implementing a Plan

To maintain health and vitality, every individual should implement a plan for exercise. Regular physical activity helps prevent a broad range of health problems and diseases. Older people can safely begin low level exercise on their own and should contact their health care provider if they are contemplating moderate or strenuous exercise. Types of exercise that older adults should do include aerobic activity for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week. Examples are walking, swimming, and bicycling. Resistance training should be incorporated as well for at least 2 days per week. Warm-up and cool down for at least 5 minutes before and after each exercise session. Walking slowly and then stretching are good warm-up/cool down activities. With any exercise program be sure to start slowly and be patient. ~John Dolph Exercise Supervisor~