Keeping in shape as you get older is vital for both physical and mental health, boosting your confidence by improving overall strength, balance and flexibility.
Even light activity, such as completing household chores, such as dusting and vacuuming, and even making a cup of tea can contribute towards your daily exercise.
Adults over the age of 65 are encouraged to do some sort of physical activity everyday, which can also assist with reducing risk of heart disease and stroke.
To help those looking to boost their strength, yoga and fitness instructor Abi Mills, who boasts more than 120,000 followers online, has shared three fitness trends that “actually work” for those over the age of 60.
Everyone should try and incorporate some sort of physical activity into their daily routine
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Heel elevated squats
“The reason these are so good for seniors is because it reduces ankle stiffness,” she said, adding that it helps relieve pressure off the hips and glutes while strengthening the VMO muscle.
The vastus medialus oblique (VMO) is a muscle on the inner thigh, which helps to stabilise and control the knee.
Abi says to repeat this exercise around 20 times.
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Wall sit with a pillow squeezed between the knees
A fairly self-explanatory exercise, Abi demonstrated the movement, telling followers to hold the position for 20 to 30 seconds. Release and repeat five times.
“The reason this is so effective for seniors is because it is a static hold which means you’re getting the strength aspect without putting the pressure on the joints,” she explained, saying that this movement would strengthen the quads, the glutes and the core.
Holding such a movement also helps to build endurance by pushing muscles to their limits, while also allowing some flexibility for different activity levels.
Even simple movements can assist with strengthening key muscle groups
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Sit to stand but with arms elevated
“The reason this is so excellent is because it’s strengthening the core, the glutes and the quads,” she said, reeling off the benefits. “It’s also a functional movement helping us in everyday life.”
She said to repeat the movement 20 times.
One fan rushed to the comments to rave about Abi's videos, saying: “I love your videos! 65 and trying to stay strong!”
A fair few also thanked her for bearing senior citizens in mind when it comes to thinking up exercises suitable for older generations.
Before trying out the exercises, it is wise to consult your doctor or another medical professional to create a safe activity plan, which can be especially helpful when you haven't exercised for some time.