Archives by: Michael Ungar
About the author
Our fitness columnist and blogger Michael Ungar is an ACE-Certified Personal Trainer and Functional Aging Specialist. As the owner and operator of At Home Senior Fitness (athomeseniorfitness.net) based in Beachwood, his clients range from their early 60s to their mid-90s. Michael got serious about fitness in his 40s and started competing in his 50s. As an ordained rabbi with a small congregation in Cleveland Heights, this blog explores topics of interest to older adults, particularly health and fitness. The Hebrew word "Kosher" means "fit." (Kosher food is literally fit to be eaten; the title of his blog pays tribute to his two careers.)
Michael Ungar Posts
There's surprising news that diagnoses of Alzheimer's Disease are actually on the decline. From 2000 to 2016, the rate dropped 30% in the United States, according to a 2022 Rand Corporation study. What accounts for this stunning and encouraging trend? It turns out, we can change our behaviors and lower our odds of getting dementia. ...
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As we age, daily physical activities can become increasingly difficult. If we don't take proactive steps, it's harder to walk up stairs, carry groceries, and pick up grandchildren, to name a few. But physical decline is not inevitable. With proper weight and resistance exercises, you can maintain and even increase muscle mass and strength as you age. ...
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Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affects millions of people in northern climes. Often known as the Winter Blues, it is more than just feeling "down." Symptoms can include depression, sleep problems, lethargy, overeating (!), irritability and feeling unsocial. Here are 10 suggestions for alleviating the Winter Blues. ...
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Most doctors recommend walking because it requires no equipment (except for supportive shoes) and no instruction. Now there is another reason to like walking: We can help prevent Type II Diabetes. ...
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There's a world of difference between a deep knee bend and a squat. If you want an exercise that helps with walking and stair-climbing, you need to build lower body strength. And the best exercise for that is The Squat. ...
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Here's straight talk about proper posture: It's not just about appearance. When you are out of alignment, it can cause a cascade of negative effects on the body. A little bit of work each day can go a long way. ...
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New research shows that isometric exercises—ones where muscles contract but do not visibly change in length—are the most effective at lowering blood pressure—specifically, planks and wall squats (also known as wall sits). These findings are not a panacea for lowering blood pressure; they are another piece in the puzzle. ...
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Not all unsolicited phone calls are scams! If you are contacted by your health insurance company about coaching, take the few minutes to hear what it is about. If you do not get a call, it's worth going to the website or calling the customer service number. This service is almost always "free"—that is, included in your premiums. ...
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