Kinseiology 345, The Effects of Exercise During Aging
05/23/06
"By the year 2030, the number of individuals 65 yr and over will reach 70
million in the United States alone; persons 85 yr and older will be the fastest growing
segment of the population. As more individuals live longer, it is imperative to
determine the extent and mechanisms by which exercise and physical activity can
improve health, functional capacity, quality of life, and independence in this
population." (retrieved 5/23/06 from www.acsm-
msse.org/pt/re/msse/postitionstandards.htm)
Aerobic exercise is beneficial to older adults. Excercise guidelines are
prescibed by docters to ensure the workout isn't overwhelming
but is still effective (retrieved 5/20/06 from www.infoaging.org). However, with
aerobic activity in older adults precautions and limitations do
apply.
Aerobic exercise is also known as cardiovascular exercise
. Aerobic activity
can be described
as any form of running, swimming,
biking, or walking. Aerobic, or cardiovascular, activity "builds overall endurance."
(retrieved 5/20/06 from www.infoaging.org). By participating in
aerobic activities the state of the heart and lungs is improved. Aerobic exercise
conditions the body and is significantly beneficial.
Older adults stand to benefit greatly from aerobic exercise. For example
burning 1,000 calories a week through aerobic exercise can
reduce the risk of disease (retieved 5/20/06 from www.infoaging.org). If an older
adult is being introduced to aerobic exercise they sho ...