Research studies show that leg strength and the ability to stand on one’s own can be a predictor of longevity. Here is an exercise that can help.

Let’s focus our attention on the lower extremities of the body: the hip and leg muscles.

Strengthening the leg muscles is very important for seniors.

One of the ways to develop your legs is by doing squats. Here’s how: stand upright looking forward, bend knees (squat) until you’re at ninety degrees and then come back up. You can do this with light weights in each hand or no weights.

For those with balance issues or at risk for falling, an alternate version is to squat from a chair…While seated, stand up looking forward and sit down again. During the process of sitting, go down slowly. Ten to fifteen times is good.

Squats can also contribute to balance.

Mark Bryant has been a personal trainer for 25 years and recently earned a certification as a Corrective Exercise Specialist. He is the Enhance Fitness Coordinator at Southeast Seattle Senior Center, with over 15 years of experience working with seniors. Despite having had a total hip replacement, Mark has won 11 Powerlifting World Championships. http://www.fitnessexpertmark.com.