5 Exercises That Could H.arm You in Older Age (And What to Do Instead)

Why it’s risky:
Deep squats can strain the knees and lower back, especially if your form isn’t perfect. Using heavy weights increases the risk of muscle strain, disc injuries, or aggravation of arthritis.

✅ Try this instead:
Chair squats or wall sits
These strengthen your legs and glutes while minimizing joint strain. They also mimic real-life movements like sitting and standing — improving daily function.

3. ❌ Crunches and Sit-Ups

Why it’s risky:
Traditional ab exercises like crunches and sit-ups put stress on the neck and lower spine. For older adults, this can lead to disc compression or back pain.

✅ Try this instead:
Seated or standing core exercises
Try seated knee lifts, standing torso twists, or gentle planks on a wall to engage your core safely and effectively.