Flexibility exercises for older adults By Marlyn Black

Ending an exercise session with flexibility exercises is a good way to improve range of motion and stability in older adults. As a personal trainer who works with older women, I have found that standing stretches are a good option for those clients who are not able to—or do not want to—get up and down from the floor. In a public space such as a gym or an exercise class, older people may be reluctant to lay down on the floor and perform stretches that require raising or extending their legs. Besides, older adults are seated most of the day, so they benefit from standing while exercising.