It’s easy to assume that as we age it becomes harder and harder to stay fit and healthy but it doesn’t have to be like that. If anything it can be easier in many ways because you now have much more time on your hands than when you were working or bringing up a family. No more excuses like not having time to go to the gym!
After retirement a regular habit of exercising could also be an opportunity to meet new people and try new activities. It is also the best way to stay fit, healthy and mobile and make the most of your golden years. Of course, combined with a healthy diet so don’t forget to also eat well for a healthier later life.
So here are some of the best, and easiest, ways for older people to keep fit from the experts at The Live-in Care Hub.
Walking
Many people don’t think about walking as exercise as it may just be something you have regularly done without giving it much thought. But once you stop working you may find that you are doing much less walking and gradually falling into the habit of being less fit, it may be an imperceptible change at first but over time not walking regularly will have a detrimental effect on your health and fitness.
Not only that but walking is the easiest form of exercise – you don’t need any special equipment or clothing; you don’t have to do it at any particular time of day. You simply have to open the door and go..
Swimming
Swimming on the other hand does require a both more effort – you need a swimming costume (and maybe a hat and goggles); you need to get yourself to the swimming pool and there will be certain opening times and maybe restrictions on the pool’s use (that’s assuming you’re not lucky enough to have your won pool). Nevertheless, swimming is great for your whole body because the water supports your weight so you can strengthen your muscles and have a cardiovascular workout without the risk of injury associated with other forms of exercise.
Yoga
It is very common for older people to be on medication that has unwanted side effects on their mood so yoga is the perfect exercise if that sounds like you. It not only works and strengthens your body but it also acts to calm the mind and reduce anxiety. There are plenty of classes for older people that take into account reduced flexibility and mobility so if you attend one of those you can be confident that the teacher will not expect too much of you. And you may be surprised at how much your flexibility, mobility and confidence can increase with regular practice.
Cycling
Cycling in your later years is not for everyone – it can very much depend on where you live and how safe it is to cycle locally. But if you do have cycle paths nearby the great thing about cycling is that it gets you out on the fresh air so it’s always worth considering. If outdoor cycling is not an option why not consider an exercise bike in your home or garage? Because cycling is a low-impact exercise it enables you to build strength in your legs and improve cardiovascular fitness without risking injuries to your joints.
