Two Upper Body Exercises Every Adult Should Do (Especially Over 50)

Summary by Krater

Matt Hsu explains two essential upper body exercises—push-ups and dumbbell rows—specifically recommended for seniors to build functional strength and maintain independence.

From the video

Answers: What upper body exercises should seniors do to build strength?

• upper body strength for seniors
• push-up progressions and regressions
• dumbbell row form and technique
• functional fitness over 50

Exercises

• push-up · bodyweight · 3-10 reps, 3-5 sets
• dumbbell row · dumbbell · 8-20 reps, 2-3 sets

What it concludes

• Push-ups and dumbbell rows are two essential upper body exercises that help seniors maintain functional strength and independence.
• Doing push-ups on a kitchen counter or with elevated surfaces allows beginners and seniors to build strength safely before moving to the floor.
• Dumbbell rows act as the balancer to push-ups, preventing muscle imbalances and helping with everyday tasks like opening heavy doors.
• Seniors should aim to perform these two upper body exercises twice a week.