How do you stay physically active when your body isn’t as young and energetic as it used to be? Many loved ones give up their daily exercise routines, resigning themselves to the idea that they’ll never get in shape again. However, there are plenty of creative ways for the elders to stay physically active despite their age and physical abilities. This guide will show you how to find fun and exciting ways to burn off some calories and put some pep back in your step!
Take a Dance Class
When you’re talking about staying physically active, there’s nothing better than getting down and boogieing with friends. Dancing is a great way to keep moving and socializing, and you can always find a class at any age level. If dancing isn’t your thing, you could try yoga or tai chi; both low-impact activities offer great exercise. Whatever your interest, finding a physical activity that brings others together is key to keeping motivated and having fun. To make sure the elders stay physically active long-term, family members need to encourage but avoid telling them what they should do.
Get a Pet
Pets can help boost your mood and provide you with a sense of purpose; research shows pets make us happier and healthier. If you live alone or simply feel like spending more time with a four-legged friend, consider getting a pet! Dogs make excellent companions for loved ones as they’re high energy and need constant exercise. Cats are perfect for those who prefer to keep their interactions with an animal light; many cats don’t require as much training as dogs but will still give plenty of love and companionship.
Learn a Few Yoga Poses
Yoga is an excellent way for us all to stay physically active. It’s great for flexibility, strength, and balance. Some yoga poses are simple enough that they can be done sitting down or standing up, so it’s never too late to start practicing.
Build Some Muscle
If you’re new to strength training, start small: choose a single weight-training exercise (like bench presses) and do two or three sets of 8 to 12 repetitions at a time. As you get more comfortable, you can increase your number of exercises and workouts. You can also alternate between upper-body and lower-body lifts on any given day. Building muscle is key for loved ones looking to stay physically active. It helps maintain overall muscle mass, tone, and coordination, making it easier to tackle everyday tasks without exhausting yourself. Plus, maintaining some muscle mass is an integral part of overall health maintenance for both men and women—and even more so as we age.
Go for a Swim
Swimming is an excellent form of exercise for the family since it doesn’t pressure joints or lead to muscle-strain injuries. It is also a fun way to stay active since it can be done in either an indoor or outdoor pool. Swimming is also a great workout because it requires movement in all four limbs, ensuring that no part of your body gets left out. All of these benefits make swimming one of the most beneficial exercises you can do when you are looking for ways to stay physically active.
