How to Ensure You Are Exercising Safely

Start slowly, especially if you haven’t been active for a long time. Little by little build up your activities and how hard you work at them.

Don’t hold your breath during strength exercises. That could cause changes in your blood pressure. It may seem strange at first, but the rule is to breathe out as you lift something; breathe in as you relax.

Use safety equipment. For example, wear a helmet for bike riding or the right shoes for walking or jogging.

Unless your doctor has asked you to limit fluids, be sure to drink plenty when you are doing activities. Many older adults don’t feel thirsty even if their body needs fluids.

Always bend forward from the hips, not the waist. If you keep your back straight, you’re probably bending the right way. If your back “humps,” that’s probably wrong.

Warm up your muscles before you stretch. Try walking and light arm pumping first.