It’s that time of the year to take stock of your resolutions and tick off what you’ve done.
Or, more than likely, what you haven’t done since February, which is when most New Year’s Resolutions fail.
But this year’s different – because this year, you’ll be taking your workout home. Say goodbye to excuses like an unfavourable weather forecast killing your chance of going for a hike, or that you cancelled a gym session because your buddy woke up late.
Now, all the equipment you need to work up a decent sweat is lying right there in your living room – reminding you, positively beckoning to you, that a good workout is just a couple of steps away.
With any luck, this list of silver-friendly workout equipment will help you keep disciplined at plugging away at your New Year resolutions rather than disappointed by the half-year mark.
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Treadmill: Dyaco LW280 Treadmill, $2,799
Those looking to improve strength in their lower limbs while clocking in cardiovascular exercise can’t go wrong with a treadmill, unless they’ve got nagging knee pain (but more on that later).
It’s also a great confidence booster for seniors after an operation or bout of reduced mobility, as walking on a treadmill most closely mimics, well, regular walking.
Depending on the fitness level you’re starting with, it might be wise to get a treadmill with a pair of parallel handles on both sides for an added layer of safety.
Elliptical Trainer: BH FITNESS G2334N Athlon Elliptical Trainer, $399
Silver runners with chronic ankle, knee or hip pain could benefit from an elliptical trainer, as it allows them to challenge their cardiovascular system without the usual repeated impact from pounding the pavement.
Another benefit of elliptical trainers is that you can use the handlebars if you’d like to take some of the load off your legs and get a burn in your arms instead, making it easier to get in a full-body workout without needing other equipment.
Recumbent Bike: Schwinn 510R Recumbent Bike, $1,099
A recumbent stationary bike is a suitable alternative for seniors looking to work their thighs, calves and hip flexors without having the strain of having to sit or stand upright – simply recline comfortably in your chair, adjust the resistance to your liking, and pedal away.
The recumbent bike is one of the best ways to get a reluctant mover to clock some exercise, as it is not only easy on the joints, but also leaves your hands and eyes free to focus on other things, like catching up on the latest K-dramas or playing Candy Crush.
Stability Ball: AIBI Gym Ball with Pump, $49
Stability ball exercises are a staple in senior training as it allows participants to build balance together with strength and muscle.
After all, most silvers aren’t exercising to get huge biceps, but rather maintaining and even improving their ability to perform activities of daily living well.
This makes stability balls, sometimes known as yoga balls or gym balls, a great bit of kit to have handy in the senior home gym, especially since they are both affordable and relatively easy to stow.
Just remember to get assistance from a loved one before attempting anything too adventurous with stability balls, as such exercise is inherently more challenging than, say, working up a sweat on a recumbent bike.
Wrist and Ankle Weights: Adjustable 2kg Twin Pack Ankle/Wrist Weights, $25.90
Seniors with decreased hand function, whether due to a weakened grip or a medical condition like arthritis, can use wrist or ankle weights to work out their muscles in lieu of the usual dumbbells.
The difficulty of training is also easily adjustable, thanks to incremental weights that can be simply slotted or removed from the wearable kit.
Plus, no dumbbell or weight plate clutter, reducing the chance of unfortunate mishaps where a dropped dumbbell crushes a phone – or a foot – making wrist and ankle weights a versatile tool to have when it comes to incorporating resistance training into your home workouts.
