Many of us find that as we get older it is more difficult to stay in shape and exercise. We no longer participate in team sports and it is common for older people to have a more sedentary job.

As we age, it is common for muscle mass to decrease. This can result in a reduction in strength particularly for seniors. Balance and flexibility can also be reduced and reaction times are slower. But it is not all bad news. A sensible exercise program can increase strength and endurance and have a positive effect on a person's self-confidence.

Many older people do not like the idea of exercising at a health club. This may be because they are self-conscious or just prefer to do things in a more private setting. Thankfully there are many pieces of exercise equipment that can be used at home.

One of the most popular types of home exercise is to use an elliptical trainer. These machines are ideal for people that want to improve their cardiovascular fitness and also their strength.

They're suitable for older people because they have a smooth elliptical action. This is particularly gentle on the knee, hip and ankle joints. In this respect they are a better choice compared to a treadmill.

Another benefit that they have compared to a treadmill is that they also exercise the arms. This enables you to get a full body workout.

Many professional gyms will have a range of elliptical trainers available. However, they are also widely available for home use. Indeed, they are fast becoming the most popular piece of home fitness equipment. This is largely because they are efficient, quiet and low impact. These are the very points that make them ideal pieces of exercise equipment for older people.


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