There are many benefits of a regular exercise program. This is true even for people who have joint pain, back pain, arthritis, or osteoporosis. And it's true for people who are recovering from an injury or from surgery such as joint replacement or arthroscopy. Exercise has also been shown to help people of all ages by lowering blood pressure. It also lowers the risk of falls and serious injuries (such as hip or wrist fractures). Exercise can slow the body's loss of muscle and bone mass.

Exercise also can:

• Increase flexibility.
• Tone muscles.
• Build stronger bones.
• Improve mobility.
• Improve balance.
• Boost self-image.
• Relieve insomnia.
• Ease tension and stress.
• Offset feelings of anxiety and depression.
• Improve thinking ability.
• Help you stay at a weight that's healthy for you.
• Enhance cardiovascular fitness.
• Increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels.
• Reduce the risk of chronic diseases (such as type 2 diabetes and certain types of cancer, such as breast cancer and colon cancer).
• Reduce joint and muscle pain.
• Provide fun and enjoyment.
• Help you live a longer, healthier life.

It's never too late to start an exercise program. With today's medical technology and scientific advances, more people are living longer. And with longer lives, people are looking for a higher quality of life. Greater importance is placed on independent, healthy living. Exercise is a great way to keep older people active.

The CDC lists the following physical activity guidelines for older adults:

• Move more and sit less. Some activity during the day is better than none.
• Try to get at least 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) of medium-intensity exercise a week.
• Gain even more benefits by doing 300 minutes of medium-intensity physical activity a week.
• Experts advise doing muscle-strengthening activities that involve all major muscle groups on 2 or more days a week for more health benefits.
• To prevent falls, balance training is advised as part of weekly physical activity.

Approach exercise carefully. It doesn't have to be vigorous to be helpful. Even a walk around the park can be positive for anyone's body and mind. So can 30 minutes of working in the garden. You also don't have to do 30 minutes of exercise all at one time. Research now suggests that it's just as helpful to do three 10-minute periods of exercise spread out over the day.

Talk with your doctor if you have a health condition, you've had a recent surgery, or you're just starting an exercise program. Your doctor can help make sure the exercise program that you choose is designed with your health and wellness in mind.