As we age, it’s essential to maintain an active lifestyle to help improve our quality of life, independence, and overall health. Exercise provides numerous benefits, including improved circulation, bone density, and strength. However, Eric Kim UBC thinks knowing where to start or finding the motivation to stay active can be challenging. This article explores eight ways to stay physically active in your later years.
1. Make Exercise A Part Of Your Daily Routine
Incorporating exercise into your daily routine can help make it a natural part of your life. It doesn’t have to be complicated or rigorous; it can be as simple as taking a brief walk, stretching, or doing light housework. Small, consistent changes can go a long way in improving your overall health. Additionally, regular exercise helps to boost your energy level, making it easier to tackle your daily tasks.
2. Find An Exercise Partner
Exercising with a partner can provide excellent motivation and support for staying active. Having someone to exercise with can make the experience more enjoyable and socially engaging. In addition, exercising with a partner also promotes accountability and helps ensure you stay consistent with your workout routine.
3. Join A Fitness Class
Fitness classes are a great way to get your heart pumping, socialize, and stay active. Many classes cater to individuals in their later years and can be tailored to their fitness level. Classes like yoga, tai chi, or water aerobics provide low-impact workouts, which are especially beneficial for anyone with arthritis, joint pain, or mobility issues.
4. Incorporate Strength Training
Many individuals overlook the importance of strength training as they age. However, it’s crucial to maintain and improve muscle and bone density to prevent falls and fractures. Strength training can also help increase metabolism and improve balance and coordination.
5. Don’t Overdo It
Being mindful of your physical limitations is essential, especially when starting a new exercise routine. Start slow, and gradually increase the duration and intensity of your workout. Overdoing it can lead to injuries or burnout, leading to fewer opportunities to stay active.
6. Find Activities You Enjoy
When it comes to staying active, the key is finding activities you genuinely enjoy. You’re likelier to stick with a workout routine if it is enjoyable rather than just a chore. Try exercises like gardening, dancing, swimming, or cycling, which benefit your physical and mental health.
7. Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated while exercising is crucial, especially when you’re older. Dehydration can lead to muscle cramps, dizziness, and exhaustion. Ensure you bring water when you exercise and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
8. Schedule A Regular Physical Checkup
Before starting any exercise routine, scheduling a physical checkup with your healthcare provider is vital. Discuss your fitness goals, and ensure you’re healthy enough to create a workout routine. Your healthcare provider can recommend safe exercises and help you identify any limitations or concerns to watch out for.
9. Incorporate Variety
Varying your exercise routine can help keep things fresh and enjoyable while preventing boredom and burnout. Incorporating different activities into your routine, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, can help ensure you stay active while avoiding injury. Additionally, combining cardio with strength training can give you an extra energy boost and further help improve your overall health.
Conclusion
Staying active in your later years is crucial for maintaining overall health, independence, and quality of life, says Eric Kim UBC. You don’t have to engage in strenuous workouts or join a gym to maintain an active lifestyle. Simple, low-impact exercises like walking, stretching, or light housework can significantly improve your health. Finding activities you enjoy, exercising with a partner, and incorporating strength training can also help you stay consistent with your workout routine. Remember to listen to your body, stay hydrated, and schedule a regular physical checkup with your healthcare provider. These tips can pave the way for a healthy and active later life.
