Staying active is one of the best ways to support your health and independence as you get older. You don’t need to train for a marathon or spend hours at the gym to feel the benefits - the key is finding movement you enjoy and can stick with.
Whether you like walking, swimming, gardening or dancing, regular physical activity can help you move more easily, feel stronger and live a more fulfilling life.
Exercise is more than just physical - it supports your mind, mood and overall well-being. Regular movement can help reduce your risk of chronic health conditions such as:
It can also help you:
A balanced fitness routine should include endurance, strength, flexibility and balance. Each plays an important role in keeping you healthy and active.
Always check with your doctor before starting a new exercise plan.
Endurance activities strengthen your heart, lungs and circulation. They help you stay active longer - whether you’re playing with grandkids or running errands.
Try activities like:
Muscle mass naturally decreases with age but strength training helps you stay strong and independent. Strong muscles support your bones and protect your joints.
You can build strength with:
Good flexibility makes daily movements - like reaching, bending or tying your shoes - easier and less painful. Stretching after your body is warmed up helps maintain mobility and prevent injury.
Activities that improve flexibility include:
Balance becomes especially important as you age because it helps prevent falls and injuries. It depends on strong muscles and body awareness.
You can improve balance by:
Getting started can be the hardest part. The key is to make activity enjoyable and part of your daily routine.
Mix it up. Doing the same exercise every day can get boring. Try a variety of activities that work different parts of your body.
Be social. Join a walking group, take a class or exercise with a friend. You’ll have fun and feel more motivated to stick with it.
Schedule it. Put your workouts on your calendar like appointments. Setting aside that time helps make exercise a habit.
Add activity to your day. Take the stairs, park farther away or walk while talking on the phone. Small choices add up.
Track your progress. Whether you use a smartwatch or jot notes in a journal, tracking your improvements helps keep you inspired. Celebrate milestones like walking farther or lifting a bit more weight.
Physical activity supports not just your body but also your brain. Staying active helps sharpen memory, improve focus and support emotional well-being.
Learn more about ways to strengthen your mental health and support memory and brain fitness as part of your overall wellness plan.
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