5 exercises that may be risky in older age
Getting older doesn’t mean you need to stop exercising. In fact, regular strength, balance, aerobic, and flexibility exercises are important for maintaining independence. The issue is usually the way an exercise is performed and whether it suits your current fitness and health.
Exercises that may require modification or professional guidance include:
-
Heavy barbell lifting — Very heavy loads or poor technique can increase injury risk, particularly if you haven’t trained progressively.
-
High-impact jumping — Repeated box jumps, jump squats, or similar movements can be difficult on joints and challenging for balance.
-
Deep, heavily loaded squats — Deep squats aren’t automatically dangerous, but excessive weight, poor control, or limited mobility can increase injury risk.
-
Fast twisting movements — Rapid, forceful rotational exercises can aggravate back or joint problems in some people.
-
High-intensity exercise without adequate conditioning — Suddenly doing all-out sprints or very demanding workouts can place excessive stress on the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems.
What to do instead
A safer program for many older adults includes walking, cycling, resistance exercises with manageable loads, balance exercises, and mobility work, progressing gradually.
If you have heart disease, significant joint problems, osteoporosis, dizziness, or haven’t exercised for a long time, it’s sensible to discuss an appropriate exercise plan with a healthcare professional or qualified exercise specialist.
The goal isn’t to avoid challenging exercise after 65—it is to challenge your body progressively and appropriately.
