How to get back into fitness in your golden years

If you feel like you’re slowing down with age don’t worry! It’s never too late to start a new fitness plan for yourself. Now we aren’t talking about an intense gym workout routine that will have you lifting weights or running miles, we mean working regular fitness into your day at a level you are comfortable with.

Adding exercise to your day will not only keep you healthy, but also elevate your mood and your energy levels to keep you going both physically and mentally. You should aim for 20 – 30 minutes of physical activity a day. Here are some great ways to increase your activity.

Yoga

Yoga doesn’t mean you have to be able to stretch your legs behind your head (right away). Start out with some beginner moves and stretches and soon enough you’ll be more flexible and more fit.

This is a great option because it is low intensity but will get you moving and help get you fit with regular activity.

Here are some great beginner poses that you can try at home: http://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/features/yoga-for-seniors#1

Walks

Taking a stroll to the store, or at your favorite park is a great way to get your daily exercise. Walking for 20 – 30 minutes a day will get your heart pumping and stretch your legs.

The added bonus of getting outside will elevate your mood as well as destress. Here are some interesting benefits: http://www.lifehack.org/articles/lifestyle/7-amazing-health-benefits-walking-the-woods-you-probably-dont-know.html

Swimming

For those of us with joint pain/arthritis, some activities may be too much for our knees and hips. However, one activity helps relieve joint stress like no others, swimming. Going for a dip in your local pool can have many benefits that include increased blood flow, lowering pressure on your joints, and giving you a great workout.

Try mixing your time in the pool with Yoga moves to combine two great activities into one!

Some benefits of adding physical activity to your daily routine include:

• Higher levels of functional health
• Lower risk of falls, due to stronger bones and muscles
• Increasing your balance to help reduce falls
• Improved sleep, and waking more energetic
• And reducing the risk of:
  • Heart disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Type 2 diabetes

If you want some help setting a plan to get more active don’t hesitate to reach out by phone or the form below any time 24/7.