When you think of the exercises the elderly are able to do, your choices might be a little limited once you consider strength building. That’s not the case if you considered rowing as a sport and exercise, as it has been the favorite of individuals of all ages for many decades all around the world.

The key aspect of rowing that makes it perfect for the elderly is that you can move at your own pace. Even if you don’t have any experience in strength training at all, you can get started with rowing for sport and hobby. Those new to the sport will want to start on the rowing machine first, and leave embarking on the waters until the basic motions are down.

A sore back usually isn’t a big problem- it’s just an ailment that comes and goes. For back sores that aren’t serious, you can start a rowing routine to strengthen your back and improve the alignment. The elderly are especially in need of such a routine, since the test of time has likely but a lot of strain on the back that can only be removed through strength training.

Stress reduction is good, as always, and is something that rowing is associated with. The elderly can be harmed greatly through stress- which has been known to cause heart attacks. Rowing can benefit the immune system, which is also a common concern for the elderly. In a sense you are building your entire body, not just your upper body.

The act of rowing is sometimes used to warm your body up for another activity. For instance, you could do a fifteen minute training session with a rowing machine to warm yourself up for a free weight lifting exercise. By the time you get to the free weights, your muscles will already be loosened and circulation will be at its peak. Be careful not to overwork the muscles, since this could affect your stabilizer muscles necessary for keeping a steady hold of weights.

Rowing machines are great fun, but also consider going outside to use a real rowboat if you haven’t already. A real rowboat takes a lot of skill to maneuver, so you should practice at least for a few months before even thinking about it. Build up your strength and then look at a few clubs in your area. If you don’t have any, talk to a friend to see if they would be interested in testing the waters with you.

Final Thoughts

Rowing can be a fun hobby for all ages- not just the elderly. Some of the most famous heroes in history have all taken up rowing in their teens, and carried their love throughout adulthood. Perhaps at least trying it wouldn’t be such a bad idea!

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