Strong legs are essential to leading an active lifestyle in your golden years.
Strong leg muscles aren’t just for fast runners or heavy lifters. They are a must for anyone who loves an independent and active lifestyle and doesn’t want to give up a little fun. Do you ever feel heavy, tired, or sore feet without exercising? Or was it difficult to get up from a chair or walk for long periods of time? All these signs and more can mean it weak leg muscles.
It is important for that build and maintain strong and healthy legsand it’s never too late to start with the right routine to help you do just that. We with Karen Ann Canhamdirector and founder Karen Ann HealthCertified health coach and nervous system specialist with nearly two decades of experience in the wellness space and has learned five things. bench exercises which can regenerate leg muscles faster than sports cars after the age of 60. So whether you walk or run, let’s grab a chair and get moving!
“Bench-based exercises provide a stable, controlled environment that provides optimal strength for older adults,” Canham told us. “For many adults over 60, fitness and proper form lead to better results than heavier machine-based training. These exercises (below) build leg muscles in a safe, accessible and functional way, helping older adults move with more confidence, maintain independence and reduce the risk of falls over time.”
Sitting down
- Begin by sitting in front of a sturdy chair with your feet under your knees.
- Bend forward a little.
- Try to stand up without using your knees, hands or extra support.
- Use the controls to slowly sit up.
- Do 2 to 3 sets of 8 to 12 repetitions.
March sat down
- Begin by sitting with your feet hip-width apart on the floor.
- Raise your left knee to hip height.
- Lower.
- Then, bring your right knee up to hip level.
- Lower.
- Maintain a stable position as you continue to “march”.
- Do 2 to 3 sets of 20 alternating marches.
Seated leg extension
- Start sitting up with your back supported on the chair.
- Place your feet flat on the floor.
- Hold the sides of the seat for extra stability.
- Lift your legs in front of you so that your knees are fully extended. For maximum quad recruitment, don’t point your toes toward your feet the entire time.
- To increase the challenge, hold a dumbbell between your legs.
- Do 2 to 3 sets of 10 to 12 repetitions on each leg.
Sitting heel raises
- Sit tall on a chair with your feet flat on the ground and knees bent to 90 degrees.
- Hold onto the sides of the seat for support.
- Lift both heels off the ground and stand on the balls of your feet. Go as high as you can – imagine reaching the sky with your fingers.
- Hold at the top for 2 seconds.
- Return your heels to the starting position.
- Do 2 to 3 sets of 12 to 15 repetitions.
Seated Bandage Curls
- Begin sitting in a sturdy chair or an elevated exercise bench with your feet flat on the floor and your knees bent to 90 degrees.
- Place one resistance band securely around one ankle and anchor the other end to a sturdy pole or heavy object in front of you.
- Step back a little to restore tension.
- Slowly pull your heel under the chair, bend your knee against the band’s resistance.
- Use control to return to the starting position.
- Do 2 to 3 sets of 10 to 12 repetitions on each leg.
Alexa Mellardo
Alexa is a freelance writer, editor and content strategist in Greenwich, CT. She has over 11 years of experience in health, fitness, nutrition, travel, lifestyle and home. Read more about Alexa




