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How Often Should Seniors Exercise?

How much and how often older adults should exercise to maintain strength, balance and independence — practical, physiotherapist-informed guidance.

Daniel Lee

By Daniel Lee

APA Titled Pain Physiotherapist

9 February 2026 5 min read
How Often Should Seniors Exercise?

Finding the right amount

One of the most common questions older adults ask is how much exercise they should be doing. The reassuring answer is that regular, moderate activity — not intense workouts — is what keeps you strong, steady and independent.

Consistency matters more than intensity: a little most days is far better than an occasional big effort.

A simple weekly approach

General guidance for older adults includes a mix of activity types across the week.

  • Some movement or walking on most days
  • Strength exercises two or more days a week
  • Balance exercises several times a week
  • Gentle flexibility work
  • Breaking up long periods of sitting
  • Adjusting to your ability and health

Getting it right for you

The ideal amount and type of exercise depends on your individual health, goals and abilities. A physiotherapist can create a safe, realistic program and progress it over time. Home visit physiotherapy makes it easy to build exercise into your daily routine, in your own home.

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