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Benefits of Owning Home Gyms & Exercise Equipment for Seniors

By Membership Administrator | In Exercise tools, Fitness, Senior Exercise, Senior Fitness | on June 22, 2014

With rising costs and less money in many budgets, seniors may consider purchasing home gyms to cut the expense of purchasing a membership to a gym or fitness center. Some find that the investment is well worth while as they enjoy health benefits of a more active lifestyle in a convenient home location.

Who Can Benefit from Home Gym Equipment & Machines?

Many people can benefit from owning their own exercise machines, such as those who:

  1. do not live in a location convenient to a gym or health club
  2. do not have reliable transportation to an area where they can safely exercise
  3. need a more flexible schedule for exercise
  4. are unable to get out due to health concerns, budget constraints, or weather
  5. prefer to work out in shorter intervals throughout the day
  6. incorporate frequent breaks in a workout
  7. are self-directed and self-motivated
  8. can safely work out at home

Home Gyms Enable People to Create an Individualized Workout Routine

Seniors who purchase and properly incorporate home gym equipment into a well-rounded fitness routine may enjoy the convenience of having the equipment readily available at any time. For example, if a senior prefers to work out early in the morning, a home exercise routine may be preferable to driving to another location, particularly if the location does not open as early as that person prefers to work out.

Many people may also incorporate a wide variety of physical activities, such as a walking program, exercise videos, or interactive fitness videos and equipment like Nintendo Wii that can help them to achieve the American Heart Association’s August 1, 2007 key recommendations from the online publication entitled , “ Physical Activity and Public Health in Older Adults: Recommendation from the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Heart Association,” including:

  1. preventive and therapeutic physical activity
  2. moderate intensity (5-6 on 10-point scale) aerobic exercise
  3. muscle-strengthening movements
  4. Eeercises to promote flexibility and increased range of movement
  5. becoming less sedentary
  6. managing health risks

These recommendations are specific for seniors who have chronic conditions or functional limitations, while recommendations for seniors who are more physically fit should incorporate at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most or every day of the week while incorporating balance and muscle-strengthening exercises with the exercise routine.

Home Exercise Equipment Can Save Money

Working out with home fitness machines and equipment not only encourages a flexible routine, but it might save money in the long run because quality items may last for years with very little maintenance cost. Those who know what type of exercises they prefer can focus their purchases on individual preferences rather than paying to use equipment and supplies that do not fit well with their individual needs at a gym.

Examples of home gym equipment, machines, and supplies include:

  1. treadmill
  2. weight lifting machine
  3. stationary bike
  4. free weights, such as barbells, kettle bells
  5. stair stepper
  6. elliptical
  7. rowing machine
  8. step for floor exercise
  9. resistance bands
  10. balls
  11. mats
  12. blocks

Seniors who are more active and physically fit may experience better health with a lower incidence of conditions and related complications such as heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, low bone density, constipation, and obesity. One of the benefits of a healthier lifestyle that incorporates regular physical exercise is the possibility of lower healthcare costs.

Home Gym and Exercise Equipment Can Help Seniors Maintain Healthy Lifestyle

Seniors who are self-motivated and can safely work out at home may enjoy purchasing their own home gym and exercise equipment that enable them to customize their own routine and to focus on their particular physical needs. Although the initial cost may seem high, owning the equipment may be more of a bargain, particularly if the equipment is of good quality and well-maintained at home. Physical fitness is a good investment overall as it reduces the cost of healthcare and can improve quality of life.

Source: https://suite.io

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77 Comments to "Benefits of Owning Home Gyms & Exercise Equipment for Seniors"

  • 3dgarp says:

    June 24, 2014 at 2:05 am -

    Home gyms can be effective if you are really committed to working out there, in my case I get lazy and its almost impossible for me to work out at home.

    1. Mama Bulldog says:

      August 13, 2015 at 11:29 pm -

      That’s how I used to be. I had to actually “go” to the gym if I was going to exercise. Now I like working out at home since I made some changes and now have space in the house to get it done . I’m not sure what changed. Maybe it’s due to a recent move, and instead of being 9 minutes to the gym I’m now 25 minutes.

      I think we have to find what works for us. The goal is to keep moving though, right? Best wishes!

    2. Gloria says:

      September 6, 2015 at 9:19 pm -

      I was the same way. I think home gyms are nice once you know what you’re doing and have gotten into a routine, but they’re better for people who have a few years of experience going to an actual gym. Even then, home gyms seem better for augmenting your workout or having a backup plan for days when you can’t get out. You’re never going to be able to have the variety of equipment that a gym has.

    3. zuulspaceman says:

      November 5, 2015 at 11:04 pm -

      You should try to set up a reward system. Perhaps if you work out each day you can go out to a movie for doing a good job. I find it helpful to also have a journal of what I do so that I can easily know whether or not I’m making progress. When I start to make progress, I can then begin to see result because I don’t want to go back an invalidate my work.

    4. Heda says:

      November 16, 2015 at 11:25 pm -

      Also when you exercise in public, seeing other people working out next to you motivates you to be as strong as they are!

  • oraclemay says:

    June 24, 2014 at 5:50 am -

    INVESTIGATE
    Pay close attention to any changes that occur in your elderly relatives and make sure they do not have underlying causes. Often, changes occur over time and you may notice them at first. If their routine changes over time, check up on it. Take them to regular doctor’s appointments. Chat with the doctor about their health. Ask questions about evidence of any debilitating disease. Find out what is normal at their age. Write your questions down for the next appointment. By doing this you will be able to keep the doctor and yourself informed of any changes.

  • oraclemay says:

    June 24, 2014 at 5:56 am -

    RAPID CHANGES
    Sudden changes can be related to recent problems that have occurred. Acute problems can be related to changes in medication. Infections that go undetected can also cause weakness in the body. Observe your elders behavior. Deficiencies can cause sudden weight loss. Eating habits should be checked. Proper diagnosis and treatment is essential for optimal health.

    1. ambrosia says:

      July 12, 2014 at 11:47 am -

      I don’t know. Reading your lines could make one almost think that the elderly can’t take care of themselves anymore. Checking their pills, weight, diet, etc. should, in my opinion, not be done in an obvious manner, as it might create a feeling of being patronised. It’s bad enough to slowly lose certain body and mind functions that we have been taking for granted most of our life, so we don’t really need to be reminded of it by someone who means well but is insensitive to age and age-related issues.

      1. Mama Bulldog says:

        August 16, 2015 at 4:12 am -

        I hear you ambrosia! I know that my parents are 76 and 82, and they are both have trouble remembering things. I agree that it would be good to help them with doctor appointments and self care due to memory lapses, but I also believe that they should have as much autonomy as possible. They are adults. They are our parents. They deserve nothing but respect and dignity. My parents have already mentioned to one of my sisters that they are afraid that one of us will put them in a nursing home. That would never happen as far as I’m concerned. I’m 50 now. The older I get the more I realize how I would want to be treated when I can’t care for myself, and the nursing home is not my idea of being treated well by my children. Not that there aren’t exceptions in this regard.

  • oraclemay says:

    June 24, 2014 at 6:03 am -

    MEDICATION SCHEDULES
    Medication schedules can become mind boggling if they are difficult to understand. This can be especially confusing for seniors, if it is confusing to you! You need to create a master list with drug names, dosages and times. A description of each pill will also help. These should then be taped to the refrigerator or cabinet where they are accessible to all. Keep copies. You should also become familiar with each drug and its purpose.

    1. ambrosia says:

      July 12, 2014 at 11:38 am -

      I think if you have some spare time, and you could make some, go and visit your elderly relatives and accompany them to a swimming pool, for a walk in the park, or even a bike ride if they are flexible and not scared of falling. My grandfather, who is 86 now, still likes to ride his bicycle, but he prefers the company of his fellow bike riders even more. 🙂 I go riding with him whenever I can, and it always is a lot of fun.

    2. Diane says:

      September 10, 2015 at 7:53 pm -

      The good thing nowadays is that many seniors are tech savvy, and have smart phones or other devices that can be used for scheduling things such as medication, complete with reminder alerts. I used to work with Brain Injury patients, and there were services back then that would page them when it was time to do certain things such as taking medication or going to doctor appointments, but nowadays, technology has improved, and we can often help our parents or other loved ones by helping them to learn to use these devices. If needed, we can also set up the reminders for them.

  • oraclemay says:

    June 24, 2014 at 6:09 am -

    DOCTORS AND MEDICATIONS
    Sometimes you may find yourself dealing with several types of doctors treating your elders. You need to keep them informed of the different medications prescribed by each other as some may adversely effect other drugs. Over the counter medications should also be included. Understanding medication side effects are also important. This may explain many noticable conditions you observe in your elderly. Smoking, caffeine and alcohol intake should also be accounted for.

    1. ambrosia says:

      July 12, 2014 at 12:04 pm -

      I think it is particularly important to find one good and reliable doctor who knows what he is doing. How many times have I heard older people talking about the inefficiency of their doctors, and how it leaves them vulnerable and helpless. Instead of going to see many different doctors who will prescribe a number of different drugs or treatments, it would be good to invest some time to find somebody who can actually help and offer sensible, common sense advice.

      1. Diane says:

        September 10, 2015 at 7:56 pm -

        This is so true. It’s vitally important when someone has critical health concerns that they have one medical professional that will coordinate their care. I have a friend with several very serious conditions, and he’s dreading when his primary care physician retires, because he knows he will never find another doctor to give him the same level of care. I know there are many good doctors, but with the state of health care and the insurance industry, it can be scary having to find new care providers.

      2. zuulspaceman says:

        November 5, 2015 at 11:07 pm -

        Yes, a doctor needs to be able to know you and your personal needs. At an older age, I would think it’s best to have the ability to convey needs and also to catch things before they are problems. That’s what a good doctor can help with. Of course, the unexpected can happen, but I don’t worry too much about that!

      3. Amelie says:

        December 14, 2015 at 11:22 pm -

        I agree. I dread the day my mother’s doctor decides to retire, too. 🙁 At this point, he’s even stopped accepting new patient because he couldn’t handle the workload anymore (he’s really sought after). He’s an internist/cardiologist, but he’s one of the (getting rare) doctors who won’t send you to other specialists if you have some minor complaints unrelated to his specialty. He’s an excellent diagnostician. I really wish he’ll keep working for a long time.

    2. Mama Bulldog says:

      August 13, 2015 at 11:31 pm -

      I rarely take medication. I totally agree with your comments. Unfortunately, I think medications have done more harm than good; however, I know they are needed at times. Overall though I think they are used too much. I’ve seen this in my previous job.

      Good tips – thanks for bringing this up.

  • oraclemay says:

    June 24, 2014 at 6:23 am -

    LISTEN
    Pay attention to any hints that a senior may give you as they often have a greater understanding of their condition than we give them credit for. Tasks that may seem simple for you are not as easy for them. Be a good listener, you never know what you may learn. Elders have life experience that they like to share. Listening can add great value to your relationships and their lives. Your attention is valued. Listen all the old stories of your genealogy and ancestors. These can be extremely enlightening and rewarding.

    1. ambrosia says:

      July 12, 2014 at 11:57 am -

      Spending time with my elderly relatives, neighbours and friends is always a rewarding time for me personally. I love listening to their stories, the way they lived 40, 50 years ago, and how they managed to deal with incredible challenges. As a child I used to absorb everything my great grandmother told me about the war. It was a tradition for us to regularly inspect the two bullet holes in the wall above her bed that nearly killed her, and talk about that fateful night when she almost got shot.

      1. Selvie says:

        August 2, 2015 at 3:52 pm -

        Wow that is amazing! My gran spoke about taking her 9 children and hiding in the bushes at night because the homes were raided at night during the war here in South Africa. She used to wake up at 4am to go down to the river and wash clothes. She maintained her active lifestyle until her death at age 94. They defintely have interesting stories to tell if we make the time to sit with them and listen.

    2. Heda says:

      November 16, 2015 at 11:28 pm -

      I agree! You can actually learn a lot of life lessons from listening to seniors! Also it makes them really happy when there is someone who is actually interested in their stories!!

  • oraclemay says:

    June 24, 2014 at 6:34 am -

    EMOTIONAL HEALTH RELATES TO PHYSICAL HEALTH
    Although most aches or pains are easily identifiable and can be diagnosed as poor circulation or arthritis etc., the aging process is more internal. Some seniors may withdraw, become complacent, uninspired and even depressed. Their emotional health is often greatly effected by loss of functional abilities and the frustration of age. There can be many reasons for depression in elders. Sadness can take over after losing a spouse. Environmental factors and biological factors can also play a part.

    1. ambrosia says:

      July 12, 2014 at 12:12 pm -

      Well, getting old is never easy. And it happens so quickly. Before you know it, 10 years have passed and you are starting to feel aches and pains that you have never felt before. Also, if you haven’t been looking after yourself very well, the neglect has a tendency to catch up with you. You might experience the sudden onset of a serious illness or develop a sense of dread about your time running out soon, overwhelming you, as you feel that you haven’t even started on those things that you always wanted to accomplish in this life. All these factors can drag you down into a dark hole.

    2. Selvie says:

      August 2, 2015 at 4:55 pm -

      I definitely believe that emotions affect our bodies and their function very powerfully. Some researchers say that negative emotions literally poisons the blood and the emotion of joy boosts our immune system. Its no secret that happy cheerful and active people look and feel younger. It’s a case of “Look kindly upon the world and it will look kindly upon you”.

    3. Heda says:

      November 16, 2015 at 11:31 pm -

      I agree! Old people live often by themselves which makes them sadder and depressed! That then causes no will to exercise or take care of their bodies and that causes more health issues!:(

  • oraclemay says:

    June 24, 2014 at 6:44 am -

    QUALITY OF LIFE
    Living a million miles away from your elders, when it is family that makes them happiest will not serve anyone well. Multiple phone calls can help. Grandchildren can also keep contact and send photos. A computer in their home will ensure great communication and connection. Getting old is not something to look forward to and elders still have many ways they are able to contribute. House plants may be great for those who enjoy gardening and are no longer able to. Seedlings can also be planted indoors and transferred outside with your help at a later date.

    1. Diane says:

      September 10, 2015 at 8:01 pm -

      It certainly is difficult living at a distance from my elderly mother. I’m glad that my brother and sister live nearby, and can help her. They often get caught up in their lives and end up mostly running errands or doing chores together, which isn’t exactly uplifting. Because of that, I try to break that pattern with frequent phone calls, where we discuss different subjects such as nature, television shows and books, what is going on in the country and the world, cooking and crafts.

    2. Heda says:

      November 16, 2015 at 11:35 pm -

      I live about 45 minutes away from my grandparents so it’s not possible for me to visit them every week or so.. It always makes them extremely happy when I call them, when I visit them, when I share what’s going on in my life, when I show them pictures from holidays etc! They just appreciate anything of this kind and I love seeing them smiling and being happy! 🙂

  • oraclemay says:

    June 24, 2014 at 7:01 am -

    COMMUNITY
    Seniors can remain involved in the community. They can give their time by volunteering at schools. Churches and libraries often have duties they need carried out. Deliveries of meals to other elders is another community action for those that are not house bound. There are many new opportunities that the elderly can get involved in.

    1. Heda says:

      November 16, 2015 at 11:37 pm -

      My grandpa works in their church as a volunteer and does quite a lot of work there! It fulfills him so much and he loves doing it!

  • oraclemay says:

    June 24, 2014 at 7:12 am -

    ACTIVITIES
    This is the time to rekindle old activities and friendships. If your seniors are still active you should encourage them to take up golf or lawn bowling by joining a local club. Getting out and socializing encourages physical exercise and skills. The elderly can still learn new activities. By being positive you will help your elderly, even if it is in stages, to become building blocks in the community. This will add quality to their lives.

    1. Heda says:

      November 16, 2015 at 11:40 pm -

      I totally agree but from my experience, not many seniors are willing to try out new things.. They are kind of afraid of the new, I think..:/

  • oraclemay says:

    June 24, 2014 at 7:35 am -

    DIET
    The daily nutritional requirements of your elderly are extremely important. Seniors are often very vulnerable to illness and a balanced diet is important to their health and happiness. Their diet should be low in fats and salt, as these can slow down their recovery from illness. Circulation becomes sluggish when these are absorbed into the blood. The arteries can also become blocked. Vegetables and essential vitamins, minerals and fresh air are essential to their diet and health.

    1. Heda says:

      November 17, 2015 at 10:26 am -

      I agree! Especially with the fresh air! I think going outside every day changes not only their physical but also their mental health!! Fresh air can do miracles!

  • oraclemay says:

    June 24, 2014 at 7:43 am -

    ROUTINES
    The elderly must be comfortable and happy in their surroundings. This will help to alleviate any stress or panic. By establishing a routine you make it look like there is some control over their everyday life. Following a routine will make life much easier for the elderly, without having to arrange or organize anything.

    1. Heda says:

      November 17, 2015 at 10:29 am -

      This is very true! Our neighbors have everyday routine – they go for a walk every noon, are outside for about 45 minutes, come home, have lunch, go to have a nap etc. They really have the day planned out and that helps them not to worry about anything unexpected!:)

  • oraclemay says:

    June 24, 2014 at 8:38 am -

    EXERCISE
    Sometimes seniors cannot exercise every day, but twenty minutes, several times each week will help them feel better than not exercising at all. If the senior walks around the shopping mall, this can be considered exercise. Working in the garden or taking the dog for a walk can also improve their health. Activity will remedy immobility and stiffness and also stretch out the joints. It will deserve overall health.

  • Navarro0321 says:

    June 26, 2014 at 4:25 am -

    Seniors who incorporate an active lifestyle can significantly improve their body functions. Exercising doesn’t have to be a grueling, strenuous, ordeal…Just basic movements will keep an elderly person spry and in full swing. A proven way for an elderly person to remain lively by negating stiffening of joints and attrition of bones density; while also fending off health concerns like plaque and cholesterol in the arteries is by walking.
    Doing repetitious arm longes above the head renders a full 360 exercise in a matter of ONLY 15 minutes.

  • jmdecaro says:

    June 26, 2014 at 4:23 pm -

    Ankle and wrist weights could be helpful for those slightly less active. They come in all sorts of weight loads, and you barely feel them when they are on. But it’s amazing what that extra bit of weight can do while taking a walk or even just gardening. The price point is low, so very affordable.

    I also think seniors could benefit from a Nintendo WII in their home gym. It’s fun to play around with. There are so many games and sports that will acclimate to your strength level.

    1. Mama Bulldog says:

      August 13, 2015 at 11:38 pm -

      Great tips! I wonder if it would bother the wrists or ankles though? Joints seem to be a factor in our older years. Have you found this to be a concern? Thanks!

  • theshaynee says:

    June 26, 2014 at 10:37 pm -

    My grandma has a lot of these in her home and it’s really helpful to her. Such good advice! She’s had them for what seems like forever now. Even when I was young she would have to keep all the grandkids off of the exercise equipment. Chuck Norris has his own home gym as well. He’s 72.

    1. Mama Bulldog says:

      August 13, 2015 at 11:42 pm -

      Chuck Norris is an awesome role model in so many ways! Fitness being one of them. I like his Total Gym.

  • brabbit says:

    June 27, 2014 at 4:18 am -

    Home gyms are a great way to remain active, but the only qualm I have with them is the lower versatility they allow. Personally, I like to switch up the routines so that I don’t get bored and can work my muscles in a variety of ways. If that’s not an issue for you then definitely look into getting your own reasonably priced equipment.

  • junenrufus says:

    June 30, 2014 at 10:08 pm -

    I wouldn’t trade my home treadmill for anything! Working out on my home treadmill allows me to be active without having to drive my car or go out in the weather. I have breathing and vision difficulties, so these are major considerations for me. I keep my treadmill wiped down nice and clean, which is so much better than putting your hand in a puddle of sweat at a gym. Yuck!

    And best of all, what is most motivating to me is I get to pick the TV programming. I don’t have to watch sports I’m not interested in or some depressing news program. Instead, I can put on a classic movie and watch it over the course of two or three days. I get so caught up in the story, I tend to forget I’m exercising! 😀

    1. Mama Bulldog says:

      August 16, 2015 at 4:17 am -

      Treadmills are my favorite! I love being able to watch what I like as well on the T.V. – great point. That is a definite advantage of having one at home.

  • Rhonni says:

    July 1, 2014 at 3:18 pm -

    I think for those who have never been inclined to exercise, the introduction of exercise equipment would need to be gradual and certainly customized to the person’s capabilities. For example, a treadmill would be too much for my elderly mother, who has never been an exerciser. A simple light weight dumbbell, a squeeze ball, maybe even a pulley system attached to a door would be more her speed.
    But for those who have the motivation and who have enjoyed exercise in the past, these additions, maybe not all of them but a few, could prove to be very helpful in giving variety in their exercise routine.

  • secret.goldfish says:

    July 11, 2014 at 10:44 pm -

    This article got me thinking about buying some home workout equipment for my grandmother. You make very good points, and exercising is always good. Besides we do have a spare room we need to fill, and having this kind of equipment so close is really practical.

  • askanison says:

    July 19, 2014 at 5:45 pm -

    I found that it doesn’t have to break the bank for you to get the right exercise equipment for a senior. I purchased small hand weights, along with a few other normal small devices for my parents. Keeping them on a daily schedule of working out well that is another story all together.

  • Colebra says:

    July 19, 2014 at 11:00 pm -

    Being 58 makes it so much harder for me to exercise…
    I’ve swore I would get too confortable with doing nothing and I would get out there, but going to the gym is hard.
    Taking the drive back and forth, packing, gas money, gym money. I end up having no patience for it….
    I’m glad I found this website! I’m think about buying some equipment so I can exercise at home, but I don’t even know how to workout…
    Hope to get some neat tips here! Thank you very much for helping seniors get moving!

    1. Mama Bulldog says:

      August 13, 2015 at 11:37 pm -

      I’ve worked out all my life – although you couldn’t tell it right now. My metabolism has slowed so much and I can’t see to keep up with the changes my body is going through during this time of my life. However, I just wanted to say that I used to go to the gym, but recently changed to a home gym these past few months. YouTube videos and other videos have been great for helping me to work out. I only have a weight bench and free weights in which to exercise, but I also have a large mat that I do Yoga and other cardio routines on to videos. You may or may not find that helpful, but I wanted to mention it.

      Best wishes!

  • healthandfitness says:

    July 20, 2014 at 9:02 pm -

    As a personal trainer, I understand that many people need motivation that they cannot find alone at home. . . at first… I have found that if you start out by going to the gym and getting used to pushing yourself with a trainer for a bit, then you will be better equipped to workout at home with the assistance of the unlimited amount of personal trainers on video or audio. YouTube is actually a good place to find motivational videos to workout with also.

    But It really takes knowing how to push it, and being used to and enjoying the process of pushing yourself and feeling good. Once you know what a REAL workout is like, and get hooked on the euphoria and the results, you are able to push forward at home easier… IMHO…

  • captainawesome says:

    July 24, 2014 at 8:33 pm -

    You don’t need many pieces of equipment do gain the benefits of exercise at home. Seniors can create a full-body workout with little more than some resistance bands, a chair, and a few small dumbells.

    There’s a lot of misinformation about the need to have a lot of equipment at home in order to get a good workout. Using your body weight alone, coupled with some calculated movements, can have almost the same effect as a roomful of equipment.

  • oraclemay says:

    July 26, 2014 at 3:36 am -

    Decisions to put an old person in a care home are often made in a time of crisis. Care homes are suggested when loved ones panic about the care of their elderly. We have to wonder though if this is always the best option. It is important to consider that even though the times may be stressful we make the right decisions, especially where our elderly are concerned.

  • oraclemay says:

    July 26, 2014 at 3:42 am -

    Dressing and undressing
    To do and undo laces, zips an buttons can become very difficult for a person who has arthritis in their hands. An occupational therapist can really help with exercises for this condition. Assistive clothing is all the rage for the elderly, velcro slippers or wide pop socks are just some of what’s available.

  • oraclemay says:

    July 26, 2014 at 3:53 am -

    TECHNOLOGY
    Ensuring that your aging parents know how to use technology such as ipads will not only keep them happy, but also benefit them in several ways. They can do online shopping and they can Skype you. You can keep in contact with your aging parent by using Skype if you live some distance away from them.

  • Esmael says:

    July 18, 2015 at 7:35 am -

    Home Gyms can really transform a person into the body of their dreams and they work hard at it. A couple hours a week can get you rolling into that sleek body you’ve always wanted. They also get you motivated for fat loss and other activities too which is a huge attribute as well! Even if you just have a couple dumbbells around, that is Still better than nothing! Nice article!

    1. GenevB says:

      August 10, 2015 at 7:30 pm -

      I agree with you, doing a little home training is better than no training at all and it could be the kick that a person needs in order to get fit, after someone’s see the progress they make it becomes pretty addictive, I’ve tested it on my own body.

  • Diane says:

    July 19, 2015 at 2:08 pm -

    My Mom does have a few pieces of equipment to use at home, namely small weights and a few older resistance bands. I think I’m going to buy her some new resistance bands, since there may be a type that suit her better, and she’s had the ones she’s been using since the 1990s, so they’re probably worn out. I would also like to get her a weight ball, which is something I particularly enjoy, rather than simply using the light weights. I think the ball would give her something new to do, and change is good, so we don’t get bored. I am also going to look into a stretch trainer for her, since I get so much use and benefit out of mine.

  • guruprto says:

    July 24, 2015 at 8:37 pm -

    Home gyms have a few benefits that are alluded to in this article: habit forming and ease of access. It’s one thing to convince your parents to make a weekly habit of visiting a gym or taking a one mile stroll. But its an entirely different matter for them to spend a couple of minutes on the treadmill in the living room.

    Having access to the equipment they need without a monthly membership or 10 minute drive can be the difference between a pleasant routine or an annoying burden. A treadmill, or something as simple as a yoga ball, can help incorporate daily exercise into a senior’s daily routine.

    This goes back to a small lesson I learned on the psychology of habit forming. A key component is in accessibility. If you’re hungry you’ll eventually go hunting for a snack. If there are Swiss rolls on the kitchen table then chances are you’ll reach for them instead of the Wheat Thins in the pantry. Ease the burden and you’ll be one step closer to forming productive habits.

  • Angel says:

    July 26, 2015 at 4:47 pm -

    Initially, I was excited and inspired with the home equipment I purchased namely: the abs exerciser; a treadmill; a stationary bike; and, some weights. My motivation later dwindled with the physical problems I encountered such as back and knee problems. I had to store these equipment under my bed and inside my closet . Afterwards, I was compelled to sell these. Goodbye,home equipment! I did not stop,however, in my pursuit of an exercise that I will truly enjoy as I know that such will maximize its benefits. As a senior who has always loved dancing, Zumba turned out to be the best exercise for me.

  • GemmaRowlands says:

    July 28, 2015 at 7:44 pm -

    I think that it is great to be able to exercise at home when you might not be able to get out and about as much as you might like to. I have a number of pieces of exercise equipment in my house, and it’s great to just go to them whenever I get the urge to exercise. I am thinking about investing in some more items soon, as exercise is something that I enjoy, but I am not always able to go out as much as I might like to.

  • Selvie says:

    August 2, 2015 at 3:35 pm -

    I don’t know if all gym equipment is senior proof or safe. I think that falling on your gym equipment while it is still moving could cause further injury. Example having a heart attack while holding up your barbells, etc. However if you have someone present while exercising then you have help if anything goes wrong.

  • Diane says:

    August 7, 2015 at 10:43 pm -

    My Mom nixed the idea of a stretch trainer for now, since she’s possibly going to be moving. She’d like to downsize into a 55+ complex, so she could relax and not have to do the outdoor maintenance. She’s never even lived in an apartment, though, so I’m urging her to make sure she has at least a balcony, so she can sit outside and get some fresh air and grill now and then. I doubt she’d use a gym even if she moved somewhere that had one, but she does seem to love using her small hand weights, and doing some stretches with the bands.

  • latisha96 says:

    August 9, 2015 at 3:13 pm -

    I wish my grandmother was still alive. Implementing a healthy lifestyle for her would have been a tremendous pleasure. I think it’s great to witness the elderly still take great lengths to preserve their health. Exercise equipment in the home is also a great idea! It’s busting the myth that older people sit at home with a bunch of cats in their golden years!

  • GenevB says:

    August 9, 2015 at 7:15 pm -

    A home gym might be very good for seniors, but also risky. If there is no one to help them handle the weight, even if they don’t use that much, the muscle still gets tired and after a few sets with many reps even the empty bar can be very hard to lift. I wouldn’t say it’s safer for a senior to work out with weights at home if he’s not supervised by someone.

  • JoggingDaily says:

    August 9, 2015 at 8:38 pm -

    If you’re anything like me, you get very nervous in gyms. Especially for us older folk, it can sometimes feel like there are a million sets of eyes on us! I like to exercise around the house or in my neighborhood, because it is a much less intimidating environment than the local gym. I can also work out at my own pace, without feeling like someone is waiting for their own turn with the equipment.

  • Mama Bulldog says:

    August 11, 2015 at 5:53 pm -

    I’ve tried both – home and gym memberships. I agree with this article that location is key. The older I get the more I enjoy working out at home. Personality plays a large factor in which one will work best for a person I believe. I used to love to go to the gym and be around other people. I also loved using quality equipment. Now that I’m over 50 I enjoy having my own space to workout without any distractions. I have found that a good, large mat in which to practice yoga and karate on, and a weight bench with bars and bells has been sufficient for me. Due to physical issues I’d rather not be caught walking on a treadmill anymore since I have balance problems. I can see me taking a tumble on my big rear; of course, only to get up later and laugh at myself after the pain diminishes. My favorite workout is aerobic and dancing type exercises to my favorite tunes. I can really get my jam on with the music blasting as I listen to Mercy Me, 3rd Day, The Crabb Family or the The Gaither Vocal Band. If I did that at a gym I’m sure all eyes would be on me, and we can’t have that! Lastly, having flexibility and shorter intervals in which I can exercise is imperative. With that in mind a home gym is now my pick. Happy exercising, Y’all!

  • Tipes99 says:

    August 16, 2015 at 10:23 pm -

    I personally love to have ready gym equipment at home. Like you said its really hard to get to the gym especially when its so far away. I might as well walk there and then walk back and I would have completed the 10, 000 steps require for me. Also, at home I could be as embarrassing as I want and no one would care. While if I were at a gym I would be stare at and judge. So, home gym is a safe heaven! I hope all of you will decide to start making your own home gym.

  • Diane says:

    September 10, 2015 at 8:06 pm -

    I can’t imagine my elderly mother going to the gym, since she’s more of an introvert. She has been using free weights for years, and has also had exercise machines over the years, but is considering buying something that will work multiple areas of her body, rather than purchasing many different machines. I think she will stick with it, and she’s good about going to the doctor when she needs to, so there’s no reason she shouldn’t be able to use the machine, as long as she exercises caution.

  • misskrystal1982 says:

    September 28, 2015 at 1:02 pm -

    Having your own equipment is a wonderful way to stay in shape. When you have to get out and go to the gym in order to use equipment, it’s very easy to convince yourself not to go. You really don’t need much in order to do yourself good. Maybe a nice exercise mat and a set of bands to start with. I have even recommended canned goods for weight to some people. They are something you already have on hand, and its just a little more weight than moving your arms alone.
    Anything that adds resistance will help!

  • Celerian says:

    October 4, 2015 at 8:26 pm -

    Home gyms are fantastic in the countryside or other places where it would be hard to get to a normal gym. Gyms can also be filled with unsavory folk

  • mmegs00 says:

    October 19, 2015 at 12:12 am -

    This is a great article. Exercise is important for people of all ages, especially seniors. I think it is excellent to incorporate a home gym into one’s daily fitness routine. It definitely cuts out the cost and troubles of making it to a senior work out center. Often seniors have limited access to these community centers, making the home gym the most accessible option. I also agree with some of the other posts made here. Many times, even in my younger years I felt intimidated by the very facade of a gym, nevertheless the intensity of the other individuals there using the workout equipment. I find the home gym option is always the way to go to ensure a more well-rounded and healthy lifestyle.

  • 55andAmbitious says:

    October 23, 2015 at 9:27 am -

    Our weights, strider, bench press need to revive to help me get back to active living. Apart from the hundrum of large family house work and maintenance, a routine weight-lifting and strider exercises, fat-burning should get back into my busy schedule. A better choice for me!

  • Nemesysbr says:

    October 23, 2015 at 5:16 pm -

    Home gyms are amazing! The main reason I hate gyms is the lack of privacy and constant feeling of dread over looking silly in front of strangers. It’s a real shame me and my grandparents have small residences, I would love to be able to fully exercise at home.

  • Heda says:

    November 16, 2015 at 10:47 pm -

    What I love about home gyms is that you can go exercise whenever you want, you can watch TV while doing it or listen to music. Another thing I like is the privacy you have. On the other hand you have to have a big house and a room for it which not everybody has…

  • diligentworker says:

    December 15, 2015 at 5:55 pm -

    Working out at home instead of jumping in the car and going to the gym has indeed proven to be worthwhile. I invested in a home gym 2 years ago to help my parents stay fit and healthy. In the beginning, it seemed pointless because they, like some of you all, weren’t motivated to work out at home. After they acknowledged their circumstances and factored in the benefits of exercising, I saw an immediate change.

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