Physical activity such as walking, dancing, or gardening for 30 minutes a day can have big benefits. If you have not been exercising at all for years, start slowly. Begin with even a minute or two of exercise daily and build up by a minute each day. Always ask your healthcare provider about any exercise plans you may have, especially if you have a medical condition. To exercise your heart, think about an aerobic activity.
Aerobic exercises work the heart and lungs as well as the muscles, and can improve overall health.
Walking, swimming, biking, and dancing are all aerobic activities. To stay strong, think about weight training. Systems that involve resistance, such as Nautilus, pose less risk of injury for older adults than using free weights. To stay flexible, think about stretching activities like yoga or tai chi. Make sure that you get the right equipment for the right sport.