Keeping Fit at All Ages: Top Exercises for the Older Generation

It’s natural to slow down as we get older, but to stay fit and healthy it is important to keep moving! People aged 65 and older should be staying active as much as possible, as well as completing strength exercises to improve balance and coordination for preventing falls. Keeping fit at all stages of life is vital, and exercise shouldn’t stop as we get older unless certain health conditions get in the way.

Here are some of the top workouts and exercises recommended for the older generation, to keep happy and healthy. If you want to stay mobile and independent for as long as possible, try and do these activities at least twice a week.

Walking

A brisk walk to the shops or a walk around the park on a pleasant day is a great way to stay fit. If possible, try and increase the workout by walking on uneven terrain and uphill routes which can strengthen the muscles while undertaking cardiovascular activity. Sitting for long periods of time is bad for you at any age, so try and get out of the house and take walks when possible.

Dancing

Taking part in a weekly dance class is not only great for your body, it’s good for your social life too! Any kind of dancing, including ballroom, Latin, line dancing or dance aerobics is classed as moderate exercise. It can also improve balance and coordination, and help to strengthen some muscles.

Swimming

Swimming is an all-over body workout, and is great for those with weak joints. Swimming doesn’t put any extra strain on the joints so if you find other workouts painful, visit the local pool once or twice a week. You can also try water aerobics.

Gardening

Making your garden beautiful could also keep you healthy. Various gardening activities including mowing the lawn, shovelling compost and planting plants can improve your strength. Remember not to overdo it and take breaks if you need to, but gardening is often a great workout!

Lifting

Muscle strength becomes more important as we age for maintaining a healthy weight and all daily movement. However you don’t need to go to the gym and lift weights to maintain strength. Moving heavy loads, such as groceries, can count as a strengthening exercise, as can carrying babies and toddlers.

Our home carers can help you stay active in your senior years. They can take you out on walks, take you to the swimming pool or accompany you to the supermarket to do your shopping – just let us know if you need a fitness companion.