Pre-existing medical conditions and medication can have an impact on an older exerciser's ability to work out. Still, she points out, older exercisers are eager to make progress. They're likely to see benefits quickly, and being physically fit has an immediate impact on their daily activities. Strength training, whether it's using resistance bands, weight machines or free weights, offers some of the most dramatic results. In fact, strength training is the only activity that can stop or even reverse age-related loss of muscle mass.
Cardiovascular conditioning is another important element.
Low-impact activities such as cycling, swimming and walking are among the most popular with older exercisers. But Wenzlau finds her clients enjoy any new challenge. All these emphasize balance, grace and good posture. Stretching should be part of one's daily regimen. These forms of exercise have another bonus, Wenzlau adds.