The Benefits of Daily Jogs for Seniors
Editor’s Note: This post is written by Austin Winder and has been edited for length and clarity. Opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the views of Minneapolis Running.
At a certain age, the aerobic capacity of the body decreases, the mass and elasticity of muscle decreases, metabolism slows, and the immune system becomes weaker. Running is a functional activity that helps to burn fats and calories while at the same time tone the muscles. Also, it helps to improve respiratory conditioning and studies have shown that physical exercise is also good for the brain. Regular running is an essential wellness component that helps to deal with major symptoms associated with aging. However, it is advisable to check with your doctor before starting any vigorous physical activity.
Benefits of Daily Jogs for Seniors
Below are some of the benefits of running for senior citizens.
1. Arthritis
Arthritis is a leading cause of disability in the US. It is a result of long years of wear and tear especially in the joints. Osteoarthritis (OA), which is mainly associated with the elderly, occurs in the joints of the hand, knee, hips and the spine. About half of Americans above 65 years have been diagnosed with arthritis. Exercises such as jogging are one of the options for managing arthritis. A regular jogging routine helps to release and compress cartilage and circulate synovial fluid that lubricates the joints and eliminates inflammatory cells.
2. Heart Disease
Heart disease is one of the common causes of deaths in the United States. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), one in every four deaths is associated with heart disease. A study by the Journal of the American College of Cardiology indicates that jogging can help to reduce the risk of developing heart complications. This is because physical exercises work in different ways to improve the heart condition. For instance, it lowers blood pressure, reduces the formation of clots, stabilizes sugar levels and helps to control cholesterol. Becoming active even for short walks and jogging will help you to considerably improve your heart health and reduce the risk of diseases.
3. Obesity
Recently, the prevalence of obesity in the elderly has increased significantly resulting in massive burdens of ill health. It is closely associated with other conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular diseases that are major leading causes of deaths in the United States and other developed countries. Research has shown that regular exercises help to maintain proper body weight and improves metabolic functions in the body.
4. Cancer
According to a study by the Journal of the American Medical Association, regular exercise helps to reduce the risk of different types of cancer such as breast, colon and endometrial cancer. Breast cancer is among the leading causes of women deaths in the United States. Studies have shown that moderate regular exercising leads to a significant reduction of breast cancer.
5. Hypertension
Hypertension is a common disease in old age. Moderate intensity exercises lower systolic blood pressure and therefore improves the flow of blood. Break your routine into three bouts each day that last for at least ten minutes.
6. Depression
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, depression affects millions of people each year. Studies suggest that regular physical exercises can help to reduce depression by thirty percent or more in the elderly. It also has a beneficial influence on personal mood
Author’s bio:
Hi, I’m Austin Winder, a Public Relations Specialist and contributing author for Orangetheory Fitness. I live in Memphis, TN and graduated with a business management and marketing degree from the University of Memphis.
