Health Tip: Seniors Who Exercise

(HealthDay News) -- Certain sports injuries are more common in people over age 50. These include muscle strains to the neck, back, shoulder, knee and ankle. These areas may be rigid from infrequent use or they may be weakened by conditions such as osteoporosis.

To help prevent injuries, Barnes-Jewish St. Peter''s Hospital recommends you:

• Stand on one leg for up to 30 seconds to build muscle strength and improve balance.
• Warm up for at least 10 minutes before exercising or participating in a sporting event.
• Alternate the type of physical activities that you engage in.
• Start a strength-training program, by beginning with strength training machines and progressing to free weights. Make sure you have expert guidance.
• Allow time for a cool-down period after exercising, so your heart can accommodate the change.
• Always check with your doctor before starting an exercise program.

-- Felicity Stone

Last Updated: Feb. 24, 2006