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Tai chi offers similar benefits as conventional exercise

Tai chi helps improve balance and coordination, especially among older adults. Now, a study has shown that the ancient mind-body practice also can offer health benefits similar to conventional exercise like aerobics and strength training.

How low can you go?

Short-duration high-intensity interval training (HIIT) has been shown to have similar—and possibly better—health benefits than longer, lower-intensity exercise. HIIT workouts consist of quick spurts of draining physical effort, followed by rest, repeated multiple times, and usually last from 15 to 30 minutes. Research has found it’s possible to shrink HIIT workouts to five to 10 minutes—known as low-volume HIIT—and still receive benefits. Consistent intensity and attention to form and execution are needed to be effective.

Gentle exercises for older, frail people

Older, frail people with a history of heart problems may benefit from sessions with a physical therapy. Gentle, personalized exercise to improve strength and balance can help them avoid falls and preserve their independence. Falls are especially dangerous for people taking anti-clotting medications (which are prescribed for many heart problems) because these drugs increase the risk of bleeding. Physical therapists can check a person’s heart rate, breathing rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation at rest and then after a short period of exercise to make sure they’re exercising at an appropriate level.

The best types of exercise when you have hip or knee pain

Non-weight-bearing exercise takes the burden off the hips and knees and makes it easier for people with joint pain to exercise. Exercise machines that are gentle on the joints include an elliptical trainer, a stationary bike, and a rowing machine. Low-impact exercises can also provide a good cardio workout and muscle strengthening without stressing the joints. Examples include pool exercises, tai chi, and short walks at a brisk pace.

Exercise challenge: Part 2

Performing exercises such as side planks, bridges, and squats can improve muscle strength. Ideally, people should do weight-bearing exercises at least twice a week. Having stronger muscles improves balance, protects bone health, and can help keep people independent as they age. It can also reduce pain from conditions such as osteoarthritis.

Get SMART about your fitness goals

You are more likely to achieve and maintain your fitness goal if it revolves around a specific purpose or cause in one’s life. This helps you define the structure and direction to adopt the right exercise program to help fulfill it. The SMART approach—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Timely—helps you define your fitness goal and create a realistic path to achieve it.

Does exercise really boost energy levels?

Exercise can create physical changes that help increase energy levels inside the body. In addition, it can induce better sleep at night, which helps people feel more energetic in the morning.

Coming out of COVID

As Americans begin to slowly move out of the COVID-19 pandemic, they may face old and new challenges. People should use this transition period to prepare mentally and emotionally for a post-COVID world. Steps include planning how to safely return to social gathering, restarting health habits that have fallen away, and addressing mental health issues.

No equipment necessary

People who are not ready to return to the gym can get an all-around workout at home by using only their body weight. Body-weight exercises are often comparable to using weights and machines, and help people return to fitness after an injury or long layoff. They also can help older adults improve everyday movements. A simple workout might include chair squats, step-ups, and push-ups.

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