Engaging in this under-recognized exercise, as suggested by a physical therapist, is particularly beneficial for individuals aged 40 and above.
High-impact exercises, such as plyometrics, may not be the first choice for those seeking a low-impact workout routine to protect their joints. However, these intense fitness activities can help improve overall health and longevity, especially for those who have sufficient strength and are without injuries.
Physical therapist and founder of The Swiss Touch, Laura Wilson, explains that high-impact exercises can help counteract age-related declines in muscle mass, power, and coordination, contributing to improved life longevity.
Plyometrics offer numerous benefits for health and wellness, including:
- Strengthening muscles and bones: By building muscle mass, plyometrics can reduce the stress placed on the skeletal system, resulting in improved joint and bone health.
- Tendon health improvement: Plyometric exercises help improve tendon flexibility, reducing the risk of injuries as you move and perform daily activities.
- Enhancing power: To prevent falls and maintain balance, it's crucial to preserve power in your muscles, which Plyometrics can assist with.
That being said, plyometrics are not for beginners. It is essential to establish a solid foundation with Pilates-style exercises before progressing to plyometrics.
Jelene Lieberberg, a yoga teacher and osteopath, shared a beginner-friendly plyometric workout on Instagram for those approaching middle age and beyond. This routine uses a stable, elevated surface, like a couch or chair, and involves single-leg movements that should be performed on both sides for balance.
Begin with low-intensity plyometric exercises and gradually increase the difficulty to minimize the risk of injury. Proper technique and safety measures, such as using a shock-absorbing surface, are crucial to enjoy the benefits of plyometrics without jeopardizing your health.
In conclusion, plyometrics should be a part of a well-rounded fitness routine for those who are healthy and fit, as it offers significant benefits for various aspects of health and well-being, including muscle mass, joint health, bone health, tendon health, and fall prevention. Give plyometrics a try, and remember to exercise with caution and proper technique.
- Yoga teacher Jelene Lieberberg suggests that, for those approaching middle age and beyond, a beginner-friendly plyometric workout can be beneficial, offering improvements in muscle and bone health, tendon flexibility, and power.
- Physician and The Swiss Touch founder, Laura Wilson, explains that high-impact exercises, like plyometrics, can help counteract age-related declines in muscle mass, power, and coordination, contributing to improved life longevity.
- After building a strong foundation with Pilates-style exercises, plyometrics can be incorporated into a fitness routine to boost flexibility, power, and overall health and wellness, as supported by both science and health-and-wellness experts.
