Exercise equipment for mid age parents

Just because you buy it doesn't mean it will be used.

If they want to exercise, get them a membership somewhere.

My moms has a treadmill she never uses, same with everyone else I know. My parents just joined a gym though.

 

Buy them a good used recumbent bike. that's what I use for my tired 55 year old body.

Plenty of used stuff out there, most of it really low miles.

DM

 

A used rowing machine is definitely the best option at that price range. Numerous studies indicate rowing is THE best form of excersise bar none if you had to do only one it should be rowing, with traditional squats coming in a very close second. I have my mom (who is 63, 50 lbs overweight, and has arthritis) doing squats, clean and jerks, and swiss ball pushups. She's losing the weight slowly, but has nevr been stronger or more able to take care of herself.

 

Age 61 here.

I've been working out on an ellipse machine, which provides no-impact, full-body exercise.

With reasonable diet adjustments and a regular schedule, it is good for cardio fitness and will take weight off fast.

 

your wasting your money, and their space; unless you can get the exact 100% perfect item, that they'll willingly change their lifestyle to use.

a membership at a gym, or with a private trainer might have a better chance. Something with some social pressure to follow-through.

good luck! let us know if you survive the day

 

I'm not sure a membership somewhere is a good idea. People just don't have the time to go to the gym. And, often, a gym/club environment really isn't compatible. People throwing heavy weight around and grunting? Lots of treadmills/bikes/climbers? I mean, that doesn't interest most "middle age" people. They're "middle aged", and they're busy.

Discrete machines at home are somewhat better, maybe, but if I only have a treadmill in the basement, all I can do is walk/jog/run in a straight line. BORING. Same problem with the other aerobic machines. And, getting into varied weight training (Soloflex or equivalent) may not be what they want. So, what to recommend?

After having been through numerous knee surgeries, these have been a part of my rehab each time. They were developed for the US Ski Team for training while on the road. They're versatile, inexpensive and effective. They can give you a surprisingly good workout. It's unlikely that you'd get to be like Schwarzenegger using them, but they are excellent at working multiple muscle and connective tissue groups. They work stabilizers as well as core muscles. And, they're not intimidating. You can use them at home or take them with you when you travel, if you like.

Have a look...

http://www.sportcord.com/

They have a couple of exercises shown, but I know there are many, many more. Aerobically, there are a few exercises that can get your heart rate up, too. So, don't think they're just for anaerobic workouts.

 

I have the same issue for my parents except they are in their late 70s and my Dad cant walk to well anymore. Recumbant bike is definately safer than a treadmill. Its my fave aerobics bcus I can watch TV and maybe work on PC at same time

You might want to research if there are some workout DVDs like P90X but aimed at a more mature audience

Some small dumbells would be good too