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Aerobics/Older Adult Exercise
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Question
Hello,
What are your thoughts on older adults (70, 80, 90) using an elliptical machine? Do you think it's safe?
Good question...although more information is needed to be able to respond to it. Is the person(s) already active? Do they exercise on cardiovascular equipment currently or previously? Will they be supervised or on their own? Do they have any balance problems? Is the machine a model with or without moving arm handles? Does the individual have a health condition or physical limitation that affects their ability to participate in activity?
If someone is currently using an elliptical trainer and not having any problems, it's fine to continue to use it. If someone has been mainly sedentary and/or has medical issues, injuries, etc., it may be problematic attempting to use elliptical trainers and some other cardiovascular machines. My father has an elliptical trainer at home which he has been doing regularly for about 8 years now. He's 83 now.
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| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | Thanks for the response. The questions you posed back to my question will definitely help way the decision as to whether it is a safe machine for the individuals I have in mind. | ||
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Answers by Expert:
Ken Alan
Expertise
To build a strong body, build a strong body of knowledge. Exercise workouts, training programs, classes, program design, workout music, motivation. Cardio, strength, flexibility.
Experience
AeroBeat.com, the first fitness music company. Program design/choreography, 7 Richard Simmons videos. Co-star, 4 Time-Life Medical exercise videos. Chapter author: "Physical Activity Instruction of Older Adults" (Human Kinetics), "Fitness Theory and Practice" (AFAA), "Fitness for Travelers" (ACE). Lecturer, California State University, Fullerton California, Department of Kinesiology.
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ACE, ACSM, AFAA, IDEA, NSCA, CAHPERD
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Men's Fitness, Men's Health, Men's Journal, Shape, Weight Watchers, O, Self...
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Certifications: ACE, ACSM, AFAA.
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IDEA Fitness Instructor of the Year
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Previous clients... Jodi Foster, Priscilla Presley, Barbra Streisand, Sylvester Stallone...
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