You are never too old to exercise. It has benefits for the body no matter what your age, even in your golden years. However, you should follow a few guidelines to do it correctly.

Getting older will mean a lot of changes in your body. People suffer more disease, more bodily breakdown and more mental issues, but it is not set in stone.

As a senior, you may have restrictions but once you get started with an exercise program, the changes in your body can be life-changing. Here are some ways to get started safely:

* Go slowly – You don’t have to hit the treadmill running your first time out. In fact, if you have osteoporosis or any arthritis, this is a bad idea. Start with walking about fifteen minutes a day to get the body used to the extra movement. Working in your garden, washing clothes or doing other housework qualifies as physical activity.

* Talk to your doctor – Always consult your doctor to see if you are safe to start an exercise regimen. Any pre-existing conditions may mean light exercise until you are stronger. Your doctor may also instruct you that by beginning and continuing an exercise program, you may reverse diabetes, lower your risk of heart disease, lower cholesterol, and lower high blood pressure.

* Increase muscle mass – Strength training increases muscle mass and also the strength of your bones. Even seniors can lift weights if done with proper technique and slowly. You don’t need heavy weights, just the repetition.

* Help lose weight – As you get older it can be more difficult to lose weight, and exercise can be the way to help you do so. Even thirty minutes a day can help you lose ten pounds or more a year. If you want to maintain your weight, exercise can increase your lean muscle mass and reduce your body fat.

* Cardiovascular exercise – To improve the functioning of the heart and lungs, get the body moving. Increase your heart rate through dancing, aerobics, walking, jogging or getting involved in group sports. It also improves your balance to help prevent falls and other accidents common to older people.

* The disabled can work out, too – Don’t let anyone tell you that if you are in a wheelchair that you can’t get physically fit. You can do many activities for chair-bound seniors. And sports like swimming and water aerobics gives you a chance to work your lower body without performing weight-bearing exercises.

Are you a senior? It isn’t too late to change your life and live longer. Use exercise to lower your risk of disease and increase independence.