5 Easy Ways To Stay Fit If You’re Over 50

There is no question that exercise is very important for good overall health, helping you to stay fit. Regular physical activity helps lower and/or maintain body weight and makes it easier to control high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol levels. In addition, engaging in physical activities helps ease the pressure off the joints and decreases pain. There is also accumulating evidence that regular exercise can boost self-esteem, enhance confidence, reverse depression and help improve a person’s overall quality of life. There is a common perception that only younger people can engage in physical activities. But the reality is that whether you’re young or old, being active is beneficial for your overall health and wellbeing.

It often becomes challenging for people over the age of 50 to find activities that are not high-exertion or high-intense. This does not mean that these people cannot remain active because there are several alternative options that can be considered.

Here are five ways to stay fit if you’re over 50:

1. Walking

One of the easiest ways to stay fit is to walk regularly, as it can help maintain your weight and improve your cardiovascular health. You can walk anywhere and at any time, and there is no cost associated with this activity. Walking also allows you to enjoy nature, reduce body weight and build self-esteem. If you want to gain maximum benefit from walking, you should make it a habit to walk at least five times a week for 45-60 minutes each time. Today, many apps can track your steps and help you set fitness goals on your smartphone, fitness watch, or pedometer. If you don’t have pets, consider getting a dog and taking it for daily walks. If you are a beginner, start walking for 30 minutes a day and increase the duration of your walk as you build endurance.

2. Dancing

Dancing is an excellent way to stay fit. Join a dance group in your community. Depending on the style of dancing you choose, the activity can improve your joint mobility, heart health, balance/coordination, strength and overall sense of wellbeing. If you can’t afford to take formal dance classes, there are numerous free dance videos online, or you can even buy a DVD for home use. If you have a medical condition like high blood pressure or diabetes, you can discuss your fitness parameters with your doctor and then take up dancing. If you’re over 55 and live in a retirement community, they may offer dance classes as one of their recreational activities. Dancing is fun because it doesn’t even feel like exercise and is a great way for single 50-somethings to meet people in the same age group.

3. Online training

For a more structured fitness program, or if you want to work with a fitness trainer, you don’t even have to leave home. You can exercise at home with an online trainer. Some of the reasons why you may want to select a personal trainer include the following:

• You have a specific goal, for example, losing weight, getting in shape, or simply feeling better about yourself. A personal trainer can be a great resource to achieve these goals.
• You are new to fitness and do not know where to start or are bored with your exercise routine.
• You have been doing physical workouts for some time but have not seen any positive results.
• You want to learn new exercises that you can do yourself without guidance or supervision.

The key is to choose a certified personal trainer and a training program that fits your goals and personal and physical circumstances.

4. Yoga

Yoga is an activity that has withstood the test of time – it has been around for nearly 5,000 years. Yoga does not only require you to be in one position for hours. It is a mind-body workout that combines stretching and strengthening with meditation and deep breathing. Every session results in calorie loss, muscle toning, and enhanced joint flexibility. Yoga can be practiced in your home without the need for any fancy tools or equipment. There are several different types of yoga – some are gentle and relaxing, and others are intense and fast-paced. Those over 50 can benefit from yoga that focuses on stretching and balancing exercises. Maintaining a good balance will stand you in good stead as you become older. Seniors with better balance and stability are less likely to suffer falls.

5. Babysit the grandkids

If you have grandkids, offer to babysit them. Young kids are active. To keep an eye on them, you’ll be moving around almost as much as they do. And if there’s a baby, that means lifting and carrying them, which also helps keep muscles active. Most of all, spending time with young children can be refreshing and relaxing for seniors and can be a very fulfilling experience.

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