It is important to stay active regularly especially when one grows older, but many older adults find it hard to find exercises that they enjoy. But what if there is a workout where you or your loved one can exercise and have fun at the same time? Zumba is a fitness program that involves Latin-inspired dance moves and music, making it the perfect activity for those of you who would like to move away from the traditional long walks or go to the gym and instead try something more vibrant.
With that, let’s take a look at some benefits of Zumba.
Low Impact
Joint issues such as inflamed or stiff joints are common issues amongst many mature adults. This can make traditional exercises difficult or unsafe to do. As a low-impact exercise, Zumba can help strengthen ligaments. Zumba routines come in different difficulty levels, so it is recommended that you or your loved one choose the one that best suits your mobility or agility level. For those whose joint issues result in mobility issues, you can do beginner routines. If you or your loved one are new to Zumba, you should start with short, basic routines first before slowly working your way up to longer routines or higher levels once your body is conditioned.
Maintains Cardiovascular Health
Although Zumba is low-impact, it still gets your heart pumping. This workout will require you or your loved one to move the whole body, which helps in better blood circulation throughout the body. Zumba also aids in lowering blood cholesterol and the risk of stroke and heart attack in the long term.
Improves Agility
Our mobility, agility, and sense of balance reduce with age. This results in older adults being more susceptible to falls. Zumba can help improve the sense of balance and flexibility, as well as strengthen the muscles. Enhancing spatial awareness will be helpful in carrying out daily activities.
Better Weight Management
Increased weight and obesity are prevalent problems people face as they age. Many try to combat these with controlled diets, but ultimately, regular exercise will be more effective. Doing Zumba for 30 minutes will allow you or your loved one to burn about 250-300 calories. You can expect weight loss quickly, which would mean less joint stress for your body.
Improves Cognitive Function
Zumba routines require a lot of hand-work coordination and right-left brain stimulation. Additionally, although the routines for different songs usually comprise many common basic steps, the combination for each one differs. As such, you or your loved one may need to memorize the steps and routines, which activates muscle memory and cognitive memory.
Elevates Mood
Other than physical benefits, Zumba also improves emotional health. When we exercise, our body produces dopamine and serotonin. When they are released in the brain, it elevates mood. Mastering the various dance routines also boosts confidence.
Senior Living Activities at Terrabella Marchbanks
At Terrabella Marchbanks, ensuring our residents live healthily and positively is at the core of what we do. Our Dimensions Health and Wellness program comprises various interesting exercise classes and activities that ensure our residents stay active and enjoy doing so. If you or your loved one would like to know more about the amenities we have to support such programs, reach out to us today!
