As Mamata Banerjee sets fitness goals on a treadmill, know why cardio exercise is significant for those over 60

The politician could be seen holding an adorable puppy as she diligently completed her exercise

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee performs cardio exercise (Source: PTI)

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee recently gave everyone a glimpse of her fitness routine by sharing a video of herself walking on a treadmill. In fact, to give herself an extra dose of motivation, the politician could be seen holding an adorable puppy as she diligently completed her exercise.

“Somedays you need some extra motivation!” the 68-year-old wrote on Instagram, with her video amassing approximately 31k lives in just a day. Take a look.

Mamata Banerjee’s treadmill workout is a testament to the fact that cardio exercises like these are extremely significant for those over 60 years of age.

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A post shared by Mamata Banerjee (@mamataofficial)

Agreeing, Dr Kala Jeethender Jain, Consultant Interventional Cardiologist, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad said that seniors should do at least 2.5 hours of moderate-intensity exercises per week or at least 30 minutes 5 days a week.

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Adding that cardio exercises are beneficial for people of all ages, as they help build muscle strength and endurance, improve balance and coordination, and reduce the risk of certain diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, Dr Vyom Mori, Consultant Cardiologist, Narayana Multispeciality Hospital, Ahmedabad said: “Cardio exercises can also help maintain weight, improve mental health, and increase energy levels. People over 60 years of age should perform any type of exercise program under proper supervision to ensure their individual needs are met.”

it is critical to begin slowly and progressively increase intensity over time (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Sharing some other benefits, the expert said that cardio exercises can aid in enhancing a person’s overall cardiovascular health and lower their risk of getting certain chronic conditions, apart from strengthening bones and muscles, boosting energy, and improving balance and coordination. “Regular cardiac exercises can also aid in the maintenance of a healthy weight, the reduction of stress and anxiety, and the improvement of general mood,” Dr Mori told indianexpress.com.

Some cardio exercises which are beneficial for those over 60, according to Dr Jain, are: brisk walking, running, jogging, swimming, cycling, dancing, water aerobics, jumping rope, golfing, rowing, treadmill, stair climbing, cross-country skiing, etc.

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However, if you are new to cardio workouts, you must keep certain essential things in mind, as per Dr Mori.

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*It is critical to begin slowly and progressively increase intensity over time. This will keep you safe and limit your chances of getting hurt.
*Drink plenty of water during your workout as well, as staying hydrated can help you stay energised and focused.
*Finally, pay attention to your body and stop if you experience any pain or discomfort.
*Regular stretching and breaks will help you stay safe and get the most out of your training.

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