Gardens aren’t just for gardening and backyard barbecues; they can also be a great place for seniors to get some exercise and improve their fitness. Fresh air, sunshine, and the calming atmosphere of a garden can make working out more enjoyable and beneficial for both physical and mental health. Here’s how seniors can utilize their garden as a fitness space and reap the rewards of outdoor exercise.
First and foremost, consult a doctor before beginning any new exercise routine, especially if you have existing health conditions or concerns. Once cleared for activity, start by assessing your garden space. Ensure the area is flat, even, and free from hazards that could cause trips or falls, such as uneven pavers, garden hoses, or low-hanging branches. Consider marking out a clear area with a safe, non-slip surface where you can perform your exercises.
Gardening itself is a great form of light exercise for seniors. Digging, planting, and weeding can provide a decent workout, especially for those with limited mobility. To increase the fitness benefits, try incorporating some simple exercises into your gardening routine, such as lunges as you move between flower beds or squats while tending to lower-growing plants.
If you’re looking for a more structured workout, there are plenty of garden-friendly exercises to try. Walking is an excellent low-impact form of cardio, so start by taking a few brisk laps around your garden path. You can also try chair yoga, a gentle form of yoga that can be done sitting or standing, or invest in some light hand weights to perform bicep curls and shoulder presses while enjoying the fresh air.
