Healthy Ageing – How to Keep Active
Now that the days are slowly starting to get lighter and longer, many of us are wanting to get moving more.
You can get active in many ways, whether that’s outdoors or indoors. You can find something that suits you and your lifestyle. Becoming more active has a whole host of benefits both mentally and physically.
Getting some movement into your routine is a great thing to do, no matter how much you have tried before.
Whether you have some experience with being active or not, we hope that you can find something to help inspire you below.
Walking
Most people can add a little bit more walking into their day, and no matter how much you do, it all helps! With the seasons changing, walking is lovely way to enjoy your local scenery and help clear your mind. Check out our tips on getting into walking. The NHS also has some useful advice.
Swimming
Everyone can find their own way to enjoy swimming, whether you want to go for a swim every now and then or you want to start regularly going. It’s a brilliant way to stay active as it gives you an all-round workout, working almost every part of your body. It is also a brilliant way to relax. Have a look at our tops tips on getting started.
Gardening
Whiling away the hours in the garden is a blissful way to spend an afternoon. But digging in flowerbeds and cutting the grass is a lot better for you than a lot of people realise! Regardless of your age or fitness level, getting closer to nature can health improve your strength, reduce stress levels, and even support your memory as you get older. Here are some of our tips on giving it a go.
Online exercises for beginners
Staying active at home is becoming more and more popular, as it is convenient and there are plenty of free options. It’s also a great option no matter the weather, and for those with less time on their hands. Check out our top picks of free virtual classes to help get you started.
Online exercises for health conditions
Living with a long-term health condition can really dent your confidence when it comes to exercise. Juggling daily life with appointments as well as pain and fatigue can push it down to the bottom of your to-do list. However, being more active, even for a few minutes a day, can really help with pain management, energy levels and general wellbeing. We have lots of online exercise videos available, completely free.
Top Fitness Apps
There’s a great variety of easy-to-use apps that can help you become more active in a way that suits you, from walking to yoga. Here are our top selection of fitness apps.
Whilst there are plenty of new ways you can get some movement into your day, it’s important to remember to take it at your own pace. The NHS has put together some physical activity guidelines for older adults. Their website also provides other exercise guidelines including fitness advice for wheelchair users, and guidance on ‘Why we should sit less’.