16. Exercise Protects Seniors from Injury
Falling is a major source of injury and, sometimes, death for older people. One study estimates that falls cause 90% of hip fractures. Beyond simple aging, we can fall and hurt ourselves because of loss of muscle, balance and coordination. If you don't exercise, that loss of muscle can contribute to weakness and inflexibility, which can affect your ability to move around with strength and confidence.
Studies have shown that seniors can prevent falls and maintain a higher level of functioning with exercise. Working on your balance, flexibility, endurance and strength will improve your quality of life as you get older while protecting you from injury.
More about Exercise for Seniors.
17. It Helps You Live Better and Longer
If you've ever wished there were such a thing as a fountain of youth, I'm thrilled to make your wishes come true. Studies have shown that regular exercise can actually add years to your life, whether you start exercising at 15 or 50. Even better, those extra years are less likely to include disability, which means a higher quality of life as you age.
18. Helps Treat and Manage Back Pain
Back pain is a common problem, and because there are different causes, there isn't one therapy that works for every person. However, for those with back pain from bad posture or too much sitting, stretching and strengthening the back may be one way to reduce pain. Researchers are also studying yoga as a helpful treatment. One study found that Iyengar yoga reduced pain, disability and the use of pain medication in study participants.
More about yoga and back pain.
19. It Keeps You Fit for Seasonal Activities
If you like to ski in the winter or hike in the summer, regular exercise is a must for giving your body a strong foundation for these kinds of irregular activities. There are a number of things we do that depend on the season and the weather, which can set you up for an injury if you don't maintain a base level of fitness. Regular exercise can give you the stamina, strength and endurance you need for seasonal activities like shoveling snow, raking leaves, long bike rides or canoe trips, backpacking, skiing or snowboarding.
20. It Helps Your Kids Stay Active
Whether your kids exercise now and into adulthood often depends on you. One study shows that girls are more likely to exercise when they have knowledge about exercise and when their mothers are active. Boys exercise more when they have exercise knowledge and when they get information from their dads. Being a good role model means your kids have a better shot at a healthy, active future.
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