Retirement used to mean sitting on the front porch and watching the world go by.
How times have changed!
Today’s seniors want to stay active to maintain their quality of life for longer. Health experts call this “increased healthspan”. And it’s a good thing.
Regular exercise has huge benefits for seniors. It helps improve balance, reduces your risk of chronic disease, and improves your overall mood.
Even better, staying in shape. This doesn’t have to mean boring trips to the gym. Staying in shape can be fun and even social.
Here are some fun ways for older adults to keep moving and feel great every day.
#1. Dance Like Nobody’s Watching
Dancing combines cardio, balance, and coordination…and it’s fun, too!
Ballroom, salsa, line dancing…whatever your style, they’re all great ways to get exercise and have a good time.
Want something a little more exercise-y? Try a Zumba or some other dance exercise class to get your heart pumping and lift your spirits.
Many community and senior centers offer dance classes specifically for older adults.
#2. Go for a Walk
Walking is one of the easiest and most effective forms of exercise. It’s great for cardiovascular health and joint mobility.
Even better? Do it with friends. Walking groups help keep you motivated and also add a social element that makes it something to look forward to.
#3. Try Water Aerobics
Aching knees and hips? Try mixing in a water aerobics class.
Water aerobics is a low-impact workout that’s easy on the joints but still gives a full-body workout. Plus, it’s refreshing and fun!
Check out your local gym or neighborhood pool for senior-friendly water aerobics classes.
#4. Play Active Games
Just because something is fun doesn’t mean it’s not exercise. Pickleball, lawn bowling, even Wii Sports or virtual reality fitness games can get your heart rate up while keeping things playful.
Fun, active games also challenge your coordination and reflexes, which is great for brain health.
#5. Get Out in Your Garden
Believe it or not, gardening is exercise too! Digging, planting, weeding, and watering involve bending, stretching, and lifting.
And let’s face it, time spent outdoors with your plants can be great mental therapy.
If you have knee or back problems, try raised beds or container gardening to cut down on kneeling and bending.
#6. Stretch and Strengthen
Yoga and tai chi focus on gentle movements that improve flexibility, balance, and mental focus. They’re a great way to reduce stress and prevent falls.
#7. Sit and Get Fit
Don’t let leg or back problems get in the way of your personal fitness. Chair yoga or other chair-based exercise programs can help you improve your strength and flexibility.
Look for a chair exercise class at your local gym or community center. Or, for added convenience, try one of the host of smart phone chair workout apps.
#8. Explore Nature
Time spent outdoors in nature is good for your soul and body. So, put on your comfortable walking shoes and get out there!
Hiking trails, bird-watching walks, or gentle bike rides through scenic areas offer both physical activity and relaxation.
Added bonus: half an hour in the morning sun will help your body get the vitamin D you need. Just remember to put on sunscreen after that.
#9. Volunteer
Want to stay active and give back at the same time? There are lots of volunteer activities that get you moving.
Help at a community garden. Volunteer to walk shelter dogs. Help set up for local events. These are just a few great ways to stay physically and mentally active while you support a worthy cause.
Make Fitness Fun for You
Helping seniors…and their family members…stay fit and active is a passion for me. I lead Zumba classes for all ages as well as other fun senior-friendly activities.
Find an activity you enjoy that makes you smile and gets you moving — whether it’s a dance class, a morning walk with a neighbor, or digging in the garden.
Start small, listen to your body, and celebrate every step forward. It’s never too late to build strength, gain energy, and feel great doing it.
Need help with Medicare, or just want to find a fun way to stay fit? Call me at (832) 773-7981, email me at scott.goodell@ghstx.com, or use my contact form.
Scott Goodell
Goodell Health Solutions