Exercise Rules for Seniors

Experts recommend that, as an older adult, you:

• Contact your physician first before starting an exercise program.

• Always wear appropriate safety gear. If you bike, for instance, use a bike helmet.

• Wear appropriate shoes for each sport.

• Warm up before exercise.

• Exercise for at least 30 minutes a day.

• Exercise with a buddy.

• Never increase your activity (distance walked or weight lifted) by more than 10 percent a week.

• Avoid the same routine two days in a row to work different muscles. Walk, swim, play tennis or lift weights. Different activities work different muscles.

• Stop exercising if you experience severe pain or swelling, and contact your physician.