EXERCISE | For Strength and Balance
Physical activity is any activity that moves your body and increases the amount of energy you use. Regular activity makes you stronger, improves your balance, and helps prevent falls.
- Ask your doctor, physiotherapist or health care provider about the best type of exercise program for you.
- To achieve health benefits and improve functional abilities, adults aged 65 years and older should do at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity aerobic physical activity per week, in chunks of 10 minutes or more.
- Try physical activities for:
- Improving Strength
- Improving Balance
- Flexibility exercises, such as tai chi
- Improving Strength
Tell your doctor or health care provider if you have had a fall.
Resources
We’ve collected some great resources to help you exercise at home, as well as tools to help you find exercise classes focused on increasing balance and mobility. A physiotherapist can help design a simple program you can do on your own to help keep you moving, and does not require a doctor’s referral.
EXERCISE VIDEOS
Tai Chi
Video: Tai Chi for Elders from the Centre for Aging Smart at Vancouver General Hospital.
Other Exercises
Indigenous Sport BC FitNation – Chair Workout Trailer
Indigenous Sport BC FitNation – Cardio Chair Workout
EXERCISE | Classes
Find an exercise program in your area using the links below or contact your local community centre.
Osteofit – A certified exercise, education, and falls prevention program for people who are at risk of fractures and falls.
Steady Feet – To participate in a Steady Feet program, you must be able to be able to walk independently, with or without a mobility aid. The program includes a 20 minute assessment session and 2 sessions per week for 8-10 weeks.