BECAUSE of the gradual loss of muscle mass and the decrease in use as we age, our flexibility and overall range of movement tend to decline. Of the growing number of more mature exercisers who are seeking help from Robert Day, a personal trainer, and others like him, a good many want simply greater mobility.

“It is important for people of all ages to do flexibility work because if the joints are not regularly used to their full extent, they can start to seize up and restrict movement, making everyday tasks difficult,” Day said. “A lot of people are realising that exercise can help to keep the body in shape to do what they enjoy.”

He recommends focusing on stretching the legs and back, which are most prone to becoming stiff.

EXERCISES: Touch the toes: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and legs straight before bending over slowly. Keep your arms straight and reach for your toes as you roll down. Do not bounce once you have bent as far as you can, as this will increase the chances of pulling a muscle. Return to the start position and repeat five times.

Back stretch: Stand with your feet apart, a slight bend in your knees and your hands clasped together. Slowly push your hands out in front of you, rounding your shoulders until you feel a stretch down the sides of your back. Hold for 30 seconds.

Calf and hamstring stretch: Sit on the edge of a chair, with one leg bent and the other straight out, with the heel of the extended leg on the floor. Hook a towel or scarf round the extended foot and lift it off the floor slowly, keeping the foot flexed. Stop when you feel a stretch down the back of your leg. Hold for up to 30 seconds then repeat with the other leg.

• Exercises provided by Robert Day, a personal trainer working in London and Surrey. For further information, phone 07958-774471

  Ensure that you have the consent of your GP before embarking on a new exercise regime and do not undertake any physical activity if you are feeling unwell or are recovering from an injury

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