Exercise Mats

While the elderly population in the United States has become increasingly healthy and active, a wide variety of activities are offered specifically for them, including weight lifting, walking, and aerobics classes. Unfortunately, many of the drummed up activities are unappealing or difficult for them.

In an effort to provide variety and even more health benefits for older adults, the ancient Chinese practice of "stone stepping" has been brought to the West with an economical and easy-to-use exercise mat. The non-profit Oregon Research Institute conducted studies on the cobblestone exercise mat. It was proven to provide numerous health benefits, including lowered blood pressure, an increased sense of well-being, and reduced daytime sleepiness and pain.

Reflexology is one of the main therapies involved in the cobblestone exercise mat. Theoretically, by stimulating various pressure points of the feet, this exercise mat can help to heal different parts of the body and strengthen the immune system.

Made with a rubber bottom with embedded faux, smooth cobblestones, this creative exercise mat works best when used in groups. It measures approximately 16 by 72 inches, and by arranging several of the cobblestone exercise mats in different path formations, people may walk barefoot across the mats to stimulate acupressure points in their feet.

These cobblestone exercise mats have also been proven to improve balance in the elderly, and to help them become fitter. An excellent choice for nursing homes and other therapy-providing facilities, the cobblestone exercise mats provide an activity that helps to improve the overall health and well-being of patients.