You realize the importance of staying active in your Golden Years- awesome! There are so many ways you can get moving that don’t require a gym or even activities that feel like exercise.
The most important thing is to find something that you actually enjoy doing. Not only will you have fun while staying active, but you won’t even realize you’re exercising!
Here are some activities you can try that will get your heart pumping and release those feel-good endorphins without having to step foot into a gym.
Walking
Let’s face it, who doesn’t like a breath of fresh air or some laps around the mall and some window shopping?
Walking is a great way to spend some time connecting with nature or to bring a friend along and catch up on the latest. Best of all, all you need to walk is a pair of sneakers!
Ramp It Up
Try walking with hand weights or walking poles to burn extra calories. You can also find a walking path that is hilly to add some extra oomph to your route.
Golfing
Another great time to socialize and exercise, golf provides a great combination of both.
Call up some buddies for a round of golf at your favorite course, or try a new one to change it up. Golf involves walking, requires balance, and also works on your concentration skills. Not only are you getting physically active, but you’re working your mental muscle as well.
Ramp It Up
Skip the golf cart. Try walking the duration of the course instead. You can also try carrying your golf bag around instead of rolling it across the turf.
Swimming
One great thing about swimming is its low impact effect on your joints.
If walking or jogging is too painful for your joints, swimming is a fantastic alternative way to still exercise. Swimming requires cardiovascular work and incorporates nearly all your muscle groups. In addition to swimming laps, you can also use water weights to do a strength training routine.
Ramp It Up
Swim as fast as possible from one end to the other, and then swim back at a normal pace. This will get your heart rate pumping faster than swimming at a normal pace. You can also try reducing the amount of rest you take in between laps for more calorie burning.
Dancing
Nothing says quality time like dancing with your significant other while burning calories.
There are many organizations on the local community level that offer dance classes. Joining a class can also be a great way to meet new people! Experiment with different styles of dancing, such as tap and ballroom, to find one that suits you best.
Ramp It Up
Try a dance class that involves a faster-type dance style,
such as jive or square dancing. You can even try a Zumba class- a Latin dance class that involves aerobics and dancing.
The exercise options are endless. You can take a yoga or tai chi class, take a bike ride, go canoeing or do Pilates. Finding something you love to do that keeps you active is important. Try changing up your fitness activities on a regular basis to keep your interest peaked. The more you move, the longer you’ll be able to.
