How seniors can start to exercise regularly

Everyone knows that regular physical activity helps older adults feel better, live longer and enjoy life more. Still, it’s hard for many seniors to find the motivation to exercise.

How important is physical activity for you?

What benefits are you looking for? Improved health? A better lifestyle? A longer life? Studies have proven that regular exercise gives you a 50 prevent lower risk of death. Physical activity also prevents diseases such as diabetes, obesity and osteoporosis. It improves lifestyle, mental health and the quality of life.

Get your physicians advice.

Ask for help in determining what type of physical activity will best suit your health and overall condition.

Choose activities that match your interests.

Do you love to walk around the mall and shop? Well, why not join or create a mall-walking group? Interested in making new friends? Look into joining a fitness class. Or maybe if you are a nature lover you could take a hike in a park nearby.

Start slowly and progress gradually.

If you have lived a sedentary lifestyle, begin by slowly adding little bits of exercise to your daily routine. Consider some form of exercise at small intervals of 5 or 10 minutes a few times a day instead of all at once. Set small, reachable goals and chart your progress.

Consider a buddy or group for support.

Research shows that people are more likely to stick with exercise routines if they make a commitment to others. Ask a friend to join your morning walks or dance classes. There are many options to group fitness activities.

Don’t get discouraged!

If you start a program then relapse into inactivity, don’t be too hard on yourself. Many successful people try more than once to succeed. Start again and reward yourself for your renewed motivation!

Enjoy the finer elements of life at Pinelands Grove Retirement Village, where wellness is encouraged and a varied range of services to residents is provided.