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[With Video] Lower-limb strength training for seniors that can be done in bed

[With Video] Lower-limb strength training for seniors that can be done in bed
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As people get older, they tend to have fewer opportunities to move, and some find it difficult to walk due to issues like lower back or knee pain.

You might be wondering, “Are there any simple exercises I can do in bed?”

In this article, we’ll introduce lower-body exercises you can do while lying in bed.

To help you maintain a healthy body for as long as possible, try incorporating them little by little.

Since some exercises may not suit everyone, if you feel pain, please switch to a different one.

[With Video] Introducing Lower-Limb Strength Training for Seniors That Can Be Done in Bed (1–10)

Butt lift exercise

[Senior Exercise #2] Bed Exercises: Leg Raises, Hip/Glute Bridge, and Abdominal Crunches
Butt lift exercise

The butt-lift exercise is a simple lower-limb workout you can do in bed.

It’s recommended even for people with back or knee pain.

Since you just lift your hips while lying on your back, it’s easy to do without strain.

It strengthens the muscles around your buttocks and lower back, helping your everyday movements feel smoother.

Engage your muscles slowly and lift your hips.

If you feel the tension, try holding that position.

Adjust the number of repetitions and duration to suit your body.

If you feel pain, stop immediately.

If you keep at it little by little, you should start to notice changes in your body.

Ball Squeezing Exercise

Leg-strengthening exercises in bed for older adults
Ball Squeezing Exercise

“Ball-squeeze exercise” is an easy lower-limb strength training you can do in bed.

Place a soft ball under your knees and press down to squash it.

It helps strengthen the muscles around your lower back and knees, so it’s recommended for people with back or knee pain.

Because you use the ball’s rebound, it improves not only strength but also flexibility and stability.

But don’t overdo it—go at a slow pace and stop immediately if you feel pain.

It can also help improve everyday movements, so try it according to how you’re feeling.

clamshell

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clamshell

Do you know the exercise called the clamshell? It’s a lower-body strength exercise performed while lying on your side.

You simply bend both knees, then lift and lower the top knee—an easy movement.

Still, it effectively strengthens the muscles around the hip joint.

It’s recommended even for people who have difficulty walking due to back or knee pain.

You can do it on a bed, so it’s easy to try.

The key is to move slowly.

If you feel any pain, stop right away.

If you continue within a comfortable range that suits your condition, you should start to feel the benefits.

Let’s do our best together!

pedal cycling exercise

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pedal cycling exercise

Let me introduce an easy pedal-like exercise you can do in bed! It’s great for anyone worried about not getting enough daily activity.

By moving your legs smoothly as if pedaling, you can expect to strengthen your lower body.

It especially stimulates the muscles around the hips, knees, and ankles, making it perfect for maintaining flexibility.

The key is to go at a slow, steady pace.

It can also help prevent lower back pain.

If you feel any pain, don’t push yourself—switch to another exercise.

Let’s enjoy getting healthier together!

Leg-raising exercise

[Senior Exercise #2] Bed Exercises: Leg Raises, Hip/Glute Bridge, and Abdominal Crunches
Leg-raising exercise

Leg-raising exercises are an effective form of lower-limb strength training that can be done in bed.

They’re especially helpful for people who find walking difficult due to back or knee pain, since they can be performed while lying down.

Simply lift your leg a few centimeters off the bed and hold for a few seconds to strengthen the muscles.

This stimulates the lower-limb muscles and can improve both strength and flexibility.

It’s important to progress gradually with slow movements and adequate rest.

If you feel any pain or discomfort, stop immediately.

If you continue at a comfortable pace and enjoy the process, you’ll surely start to feel the benefits!

Stepping in place while lying down

If you do stepping exercises while lying down, your risk of becoming bedridden drops dramatically compared to walking for an hour!
Stepping in place while lying down

“Stepping your feet while lying down” is an effective exercise for maintaining leg strength.

Since you can do it while lying in bed, it’s easy to try even if you have lower back or knee pain.

Simply lifting and lowering both legs alternately at a slow pace stimulates the muscles around the hip joints.

However, don’t push yourself—stop immediately if you feel pain.

Be sure to warm up properly and start slowly.

By adjusting the exercise to your condition and fitness level, you can maintain lower-body strength and flexibility.

It may also make everyday movements easier.

Let’s keep it up and enjoy it!

Lower body twist

[Senior Exercise #35] Lower back pain exercises you can do while lying down, Part 1
Lower body twist

Did you know that a lower-body twist you can do in bed is very effective? Lie on your back, bend both knees, plant your feet on the bed, and slowly twist your lower body to the side.

It feels great.

It loosens the muscles around your lower back and improves flexibility.

It can also help relieve lower back and knee pain.

Be sure not to overdo it—stop immediately if you feel any discomfort or pain.

Adjust the exercise to your condition and ability, and it can lead to better movement in daily life and a healthier lifestyle.

Give it a try!