HEALTH & FITNESS BLOG

Are You Over 60? Hit the Gym

By: Northwestern Medicine Staff

January 14, 2020, 9:00 am - Categories: Fitness

Inactivity leads to approximately 3.2 million deaths per year. Increasing physical activity has been proven to reduce the risk of heart disease by 11 percent among adults 60 years and older because working out stimulates the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Disabled exercisers can reduce the risk of heart disease by 16 percent; while diabetics and seniors with hypertension or high cholesterol can lower their risk by up to seven percent. However, discontinuing exercise increases the risk of heart disease by 27 percent.

Before beginning a new workout plan, it is recommended that older adults speak with their healthcare provider about what type of exercise program would be appropriate and safe for them.

For more information on how to improve your quality of life through exercise, please consult a fitness specialist.

Reference: https://www.healthline.com/health-news/people-over-age-60-should-work-out-more-not-less