What is Exercise Therapy?

Exercise therapy is a form of medical treatment that uses physical activity to improve the health and functioning of patients.  It is usually for people to maintain good health and are often personalised by healthcare professionals who have specialized training in the use of exercise as a form of medical treatment. These professionals may include geriatric-educated exercise therapists, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists.

Personalised for The Client

A personalised exercise therapy plan factors in the patient’s medical history, current physical condition, and personal goals to create a tailored plan that meets his/her unique needs.  This would mean patients can exercise without fear of exacerbating their conditions or causing further injury.  Additionally, we can adjust the patient’s personalised exercise therapy plan to help him/her progress towards the goals.

Lifeweavers has our very own seniors’ functional recovery program called FUTUREPROOF.  Read more and sign up here.

Benefits of Exercise Therapy

Research has shown that exercise therapy can be highly effective in improving patient outcomes.  For example, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that exercise therapy was more effective than medication in treating chronic low back pain.  The study also found that exercise therapy was associated with a lower risk of side effects compared to medication.  Another study published in the Journal of Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation and Prevention found that exercise therapy was effective in reducing symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).  This study found that exercise therapy improved exercise capacity, reduced dyspnea (shortness of breath), and improved quality of life in patients with COPD.

Exercise therapy also helps improve mobility and function in elderly patients.  A study published in the Journal of Geriatric Physical Therapy found that exercise therapy improved physical function, balance, and walking speed in elderly patients who had experienced a fall.  The study also found that exercise therapy was associated with a reduced risk of falling in this population.

In addition to improving physical function, exercise therapy also positively impacts mental health.  A study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research found that exercise therapy was effective in reducing symptoms of depression in patients with major depressive disorder.  The study found that exercise therapy was as effective as medication in treating depression.

Exercise therapy vs Personal training

Although exercise therapy and personal training are similar in helping people improve their physical fitness and overall health, they differ in their approach and focus.

Exercise therapy is typically used as a medical treatment.  Often it is prescribed by a healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist or a doctor.  The primary goal of exercise therapy is to help patients recover from an injury, illness, or chronic condition, and improve their overall functional abilities.  And personalised exercise therapy may involve a combination of exercises, stretches, and other interventions tailored to the patient’s needs.

On the other hand, personal training is typically focused on helping people achieve their fitness goals, such as weight loss, strength training, or athletic performance.  Personal trainers are often hired by individuals who want to improve their fitness and health.  And these individuals may not have a specific medical condition or injury that requires treatment.

While there is some overlap between exercise therapy and personal training, the main difference lies in their primary focus and the type of professional service provider. 

Exercise therapy is typically provided by a healthcare professional with specialized training in the use of exercise as a medical treatment. 

Whereas personal training is often provided by a certified fitness professional with expertise in exercise programming and instruction.

Key Activity for Seniors

Exercise therapy is important for seniors’ health and can be a fun way to stay active and maintain strength and mobility.  With a little effort, seniors can make exercise a part of their daily routine and reap the benefits.

Strength training can be a great way to build muscle and increase overall physical function.  Who doesn’t love the feeling of lifting a heavy weight and feeling like a superhero? Resistance exercises such as lifting weights, using resistance bands, or body weight help seniors maintain their muscle mass and feel strong.

But exercise therapy isn’t just about pumping iron – it can also include fun activities like dancing, hiking, or swimming.  Aerobic exercise can improve cardiovascular health and be a fun way to get out and explore the great outdoors.  Even a brisk walk around the neighborhood can be a great way to get the blood flowing and enjoy some fresh air.

Balance training can also be a fun and engaging way to stay active.  Tai chi, yoga, or other balance-focused exercises help seniors improve their balance and prevent falls.  Plus, they can be a great way to meet new people and make friends in a supportive and social environment.

Of course, exercise therapy isn’t just about having fun – it can also have serious health benefits.  Regular exercise improves physical function, reduces the risk of falls and other injuries, and even helps seniors live longer.  So why not have a little fun while reaping the rewards of exercise therapy?

Summary

Exercise therapy is a key strategy for seniors to maintain strength, and mobility, and promote longevity.  Also, it can be a fun way to stay active.  With a little effort, seniors can find activities they love and stay healthy and strong well into their golden years.  So grab those sneakers, hit the dance floor, or walk in the park.  The world is your oyster!

References

1. Exercise Therapy vs. Medication for Chronic Low Back Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abstract/2616393

2. Effects of Exercise Training in Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Review of Recent Studies: https://journals.lww.com/cardiovascularpharm/Abstract/2008/11001/Effects_of_Exercise_Training_in_Patients_With.7.aspx

3. Effects of a Multimodal Exercise Program on Balance, Functional Mobility, and Fall Risk in Elderly People With a History of Falls: A Randomized Controlled Trial: https://journals.lww.com/jgpt/Abstract/2018/04000/Effects_of_a_Multimodal_Exercise_Program_on.2.aspx

4. Exercise Therapy for Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0022395613001708

5. Exercise therapy improves physical function and mental health of people with dementia: a randomized controlled trial: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24446228/

6. Effects of exercise training on physical function, inflammation, and oxidative stress in older adults with type 2 diabetes: a randomized controlled trial: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29484548/