There are four major kinds of exercise that older people should engage in to keep their brains stimulated and their bodies vigorous and active. You should include the following in your routine for maximum brain health:

1. AEROBIC Exercise
Also called cardio, aerobic exercise gets the heart pumping, which helps oxygen and nutrients to flow throughout the body.

2. RESISTANCE TRAINING
Also known as strength training, this type of exercise requires the body’s muscles to move against an opposing force or resistance, whether you are lifting your own weight with push-ups or sit-ups, or using free weights, resistance bands, or weight machines. Over time, resistance training can not only reverse most age-related muscle loss, but can also lower the risk of diabetes, hypertension, and osteoporosis, and it improves posture, balance, and the overall function of the organs.

3.FLEXIBILITY TRAINING
Although some age-related change in flexibility in inevitable, much of the decline can be countered through daily flexibility exercise. Exercises that stretch the muscles help to reduce muscle pain and injury, and to improve muscle function, mobility(for example, bending to pick up something, reaching overhead, or washing your back), and posture. In addition to the more traditional flexibility exercises, other ways to improve your joints’ range of motion include participating in challenging activities, such as tai chi, Pilates, yoga, and martial arts.

4.BALANCE AND MOBILITY TRAINING
Balance and mobility training is a critical component of exercise program that is often ignored. Falls are the leading cause of injury for people sixty-five and over. Our brain education program helps to address some of the sensory, cognitive, and motor components associated with dynamic balance and mobility.

From In Full Bloom by Ilchi Lee