For anyone who says that retirement is boring, they apparently aren’t looking in the right places. Was there something you’ve always wanted to do but never seemed to have time for? Now you have time. This can apply to sports, for some individuals. “What’s that?”, you say, “Sports are dangerous for older adults!” Not necessarily. There are a number of safe sports for active seniors.
If you are getting up in years, but want to participate in sports, you have to keep a few things in mind. First and foremost, you have to understand the limitations of your body. You’re not going to just jump into some hyperactive, physically demanding sport after sitting on the couch for years. Ease into it and remember, though you may still feel young at heart, you’re not as young as you used to be.
That doesn’t mean, however, that you can’t be healthy and active.
Physical Activity Benefits For Older Adults
You can improve balance, strengthen core muscles, maintain a healthier cardiovascular system, and improve cognitive skills – as well as reduce the risk of many diseases – by staying active. Light activity can counteract certain medical conditions and provide lots of benefits such as the following:
- Promote joint health
- Strengthen the immune system
- Make for a heartier cardiovascular health
- Help maintain muscle mass
- Improve mental health and stay cognitive
- Maintain good balance
- Have fun
Exercises for Those in Their Golden Years
Though until he reached 100 years of age, a man named Fauja Singh ran in marathons, we don’t expect your loved one to go to that extent. However, there are a handful of exercises that can be safely executed by those enjoying their golden years. Here are some suggestions:
- Any Ball and Net Game
You don’t have to sit inside on a rainy day and wish you could be outside playing your favorite game. Games like badminton and tennis can be played on smaller courts indoors. If you prefer, take it down a notch to ping-pong. You still move around and get to show off tennis-like skills.
- Martial Arts
To help develop agility and speed, improve hand-eye coordination, and build strength, superb full-body workouts can be achieved through martial arts. Think gentle yoga, Pilates, or the ancient form of tai chi. Improve the muscle/mind connection and extend your range of motion.
- Lawn Bowling
Get a few people together who are competitive-minded and want to stimulate their neurotransmitters, as well as get a little bit of exercise. It’s a bit like bowling without the alley. If bocce ball had a cousin, it would be lawn bowling.
- Water Sports
Swimming, in general, is one of the best workouts you can treat your body to. Consider taking a water aerobics class or possibly joining a water polo club if swimming seems boring.
- Walking
Simple yet so useful in working numerous muscles, walking also helps build cardio if you quicken your pace. If you’re just starting, make your walks short but increase them as time goes by. Take a walking stick with you if you feel the need.
Enjoy Physical Fitness at Discovery Village At Alliance Town Center!
As a resident of Discovery Village At Alliance Town Center, why not put a day trip together to see your favorite sports game with others? It can be a great day shared by good friends. If you like to participate in physical exercise, take advantage of our Dimensions Health and Fitness Program. It’s an opportunity for residents to boost their emotional, medical, physical, spiritual, intellectual, and social health. There’s always something therapeutic and entertaining to enjoy with our inclusive daily activities calendar, gym, swimming pool, etc.
Contact us today using our convenient online form if you’d like some information, or give us a call at 817.203.8000. Better yet, schedule a tour, in person.
