Even those who have never worked out before can start, says Kelley D. Hamilton. Bonaventure Senior Living CEO Hamilton has spent the last decade of his career developing exceptional retirement, assisted living, and memory care communities to help active seniors stay independent. Today, Kelley D. Hamilton of Bonaventure Senior Living explains the benefits of fitness beyond 50 and offers precautions for the inexperienced. Aicube: Good morning and thank you for taking the time to chat with us today.

Kelley D. Hamilton, Bonaventure Senior Living: I am honored.

Aicube: Should seniors exercise like their younger contemporaries?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Bonaventure Senior Living: No, exercise needs to be appropriate for your individual needs and abilities, so naturally older adults wouldn’t necessarily be the same methods as young adults and teenagers. Older Americans can do almost all of the same exercises but should modify them for their specific ability and restrictions.

Aicube: They should also consult their doctor first, right?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Bonaventure Senior Living: Absolutely—the same is true for anyone who has never exercised before or is making a big change in diet or exercise.

Aicube: What are the benefits of physical activity for those over 50?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Bonaventure Senior Living: Better health overall, both physical and mental. Exercise is never a bad thing regardless of your age.

Aicube: As long as the individual is capable of regular exercise?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Bonaventure Senior Living: Correct.  Although there are countless studies that point out physical activity on any level is far better for the body than remaining sedentary.

Aicube: What about those with limitations like osteoporosis and cardiovascular disorders?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Bonaventure Senior Living: People with osteoporosis should really be careful about impact sports and those that twist the spine. Active seniors with heart or lung problems should avoid excessive strain on those organs.

Aicube: So golf is out?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Bonaventure Senior Living: Someone at risk for osteoporosis should probably reconsider golf, because the motions involved can wreak havoc on the spine.

Aicube: Is there a point where a senior can become too active?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Bonaventure Senior Living: It all comes down to moderation. Even a low-impact exercise can strain a muscle or bone group if overdone, but that’s where a doctor’s recommendations come in handy.  They can assess your abilities and suggest appropriate routines.

Aicube: Many seniors report pain during exercise. Is that normal?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Bonaventure Senior Living: No, exercise should push the body a bit but should never actually hurt.  The old saying, “No pain, no gain” doesn’t really apply here.

Aicube: So a little soreness is ok?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Bonaventure Senior Living: You’ll definitely feel it if you’re doing it right, but the body knows when it’s had too much, so it’s important to pay attention to the cues.

Aicube: Is dehydration a concern for senior citizens?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Bonaventure Senior Living: Absolutely.  Seniors are especially prone to dehydration and should drink plenty of liquids, especially when exercising outdoors.

Aicube: Is it better to work out indoors or out?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Bonaventure Senior Living: It doesn’t really matter as long as you are active and take the usual precautions such as sunscreen if you’re planning to be outdoors for any length of time.  Of course, indoor exercises are possible year ‘round in climate controlled environments so many seniors prefer it.

Aicube: What advice would you give to the senior who has never exercised before?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Bonaventure Senior Living: Start small and don’t try to keep up with others your age just because they are doing something at a higher level.

Aicube: You are saying that exercise should be eased into?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Bonaventure Senior Living: Sure, just like anything new it can take a little while to get up to speed and learn your limitations and then push them to grow.

Aicube: Would you say it’s best to have a workout partner?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Bonaventure Senior Living: Yes, and for a couple of reasons. A workout partner can be there in case of emergency and can also serve as motivation.

Aicube: To keep you focused on your goals, right?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Bonaventure Senior Living: Yes, that’s very true. A good workout partner is excellent motivation to do push that little bit extra where you normally might stop on your own.

Aicube: How can a senior manage their fitness goals?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Bonaventure Senior Living: It goes back to starting small. If you plan to run a mile every day, begin with a quarter-mile. You can eventually work your way up to where you need to be.

Aicube: All great advice. Do you have anything else to add?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Bonaventure Senior Living: Just that age should never be a restrictor and that life after retirement doesn’t have to mean sitting around watching television and playing checkers. There is a great big world out there and keeping fit is the best way to enjoy seeing it.