The health of bones and muscles directly affects the quality of life of the elderly, and exercise and fitness have a very good influence on bones and muscles. With the increase of age, trace elements in the bones of the elderly are gradually lost, and osteoporosis is a common health problem for the elderly. Exercise is the most effective method to prevent and treat osteoporosis. Regular exercise can improve the blood circulation of bones, strengthen the material metabolism of bones, maintain and improve the elasticity and toughness of bones, thus delaying the aging process of bone cells. At the same time, exercise and fitness can thicken muscle fibers, improve the contractility, conductivity and reactivity of muscle fibers, make muscles and ligaments tougher and stronger, and delay the decline of muscle function.
Cardiovascular problems are also health problems that the elderly often face. Exercise and fitness can enhance the function of cardiovascular system. Proper physical exercise can increase the excitability of heart, enhance the contractility of myocardium, dilate coronary artery, improve blood circulation and improve the oxygen utilization ability of myocardium. At the same time, exercise can also reduce blood lipids, delay arteriosclerosis and reduce the incidence of cardiovascular diseases.
The function level of the respiratory system of the elderly is low, and aerobic exercise can exercise the respiratory system well and enhance its function. Regular physical exercise, especially proper aerobic exercise, can enhance the strength and endurance of respiratory muscles, increase lung ventilation, improve alveolar ventilation rate, maintain the elasticity of lung tissue and thoracic activity, and delay the aging process caused by insufficient alveolar activity. Exercise and fitness has another benefit to the respiratory system: the improvement of respiratory system function can improve the metabolism of internal organs and enhance the function of internal organs, which is very helpful for the elderly to maintain the function of internal organs.
The decline of nervous system function is also a health problem for the elderly. Regular physical exercise can improve the function of the central system and delay brain aging. Exercise and fitness can improve the excitability of neural processes in cerebral cortex, shorten reaction time and improve the function of brain center. Exercise and fitness can also prevent cerebral arteriosclerosis and maintain a good blood supply to the brain. In addition, exercise and fitness can also improve neuromuscular function, enhance the body's balance, coordination and control ability, and play a positive role in preventing falls.
Regular participation in sports activities, due to the needs of muscle activity, strengthens the function of digestive system, strengthens gastrointestinal peristalsis, improves blood circulation, increases digestive juice secretion and accelerates nutrient absorption. For the elderly with weak digestive system, exercise and fitness can help them improve their digestive function.
Exercise and fitness have a positive effect on maintaining the physical function level of the elderly. In order to get rid of illness and prolong life, the elderly should adhere to scientific and appropriate exercise and fitness.