I?m not particularly active, and I haven?t exercised in years. Is it safe for me to start now? I have a medical condition (such as arthritis, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease). Is it safe for me to exercise? Isn?t it better for older adults to" take it easy" and save their strength? How much physical activity do I need? How hard should I exercise? How long do I need to be active before I see results? Do I get enough physical activity in my regular day-to-day activities? I?m healthy now. Why do I need to be active? I find it hard to make myself be active. What can I do? How do I find time to be active? What kind of equipment do I need? I can?t afford exercise equipment. What if I have an injury or health problem that keeps me from exercising for a while? How do I know if it?s safe for me to start again? I get tired easily. What is the best physical activity for me? I?ve been exercising for some time now. Why am I not seeing any more real improvements? I?m 81 years old. Should I be exercising, and will it make a difference at my age?

Dt. Jennifer DhuriDietitian/Nutritionist21yrs exp

93% (27584 ratings)

Ask Free Question

Hye. Exercise does not necessarily mean picking dumbells, going to the gym etc. You can take up any exercise or physical activity or mild sport if you wish to. The idea is to be able to be compliant. Gardening, playing with your grand children, walking your pet can also be an activity for you. If you have never worked out or exercised in your life you don't need to push yourself. You can take a light walk or do some light yoga exercises allowed to you as a beginner. If you are active in whatever way possible there is no need for you to push yourself to do strenuous activities. The idea is to feel fit, fresh, keen to do the activities and be happy. Just remember to stop when you are uncomfortable. Indulge in some activity just thrice a week for maybe about 10 to 15 minutes is fine too. You can break up your activity to 10 to 15 minute sessions twice or thrice a day, if doing it at one go is not working out for you. You do not need equipments to stay active. Your body weight is a good tool. Do not exercise or undertake heavy activities if your blood pressure or blood sugar is very high. 

1 person found this helpful