Sports aids: how older people can exercise more easily
Flexibility training
Not only endurance and strength, but also our flexibility largely determines how well we can perform everyday movements. Those who are flexible walk with more confidence and can see more when looking over their shoulder in the car. But what is the best way to train flexibility?
These aids will help you train your mobility:
1. Resistance bands
Reaching your toes with your hands is an ability many older people have lost. But with flexible resistance bands, you can adapt classic stretching exercises to your individual fitness level in just a few steps. Instead of trying to reach your toes with your fingers while standing, stand in the middle of the band and firmly grasp the ends.
Now you can slowly reach forward and pull yourself up to your toes. This creates a stretch in the back of your calves and thighs that you can intensify.
Resistance bands can also be used as an extension for other exercises, such as crossing your arms behind your back, so you can start with a light level.
2. Fascia roller
Fascia surrounds our muscles in the form of a thin membrane and has been shown to have a major impact on our mobility and strength. Fascia can be activated through stretching, and fascia foam rolling is ideal for this.
The affected area is rolled back and forth on a foam roller to loosen adhesions in the fascia, relieve tension, and strengthen the connective tissue.
Fascia rollers are available in a variety of surface textures and firmness levels. If you are new to this topic, it is best to seek advice from a physical therapist.
