Everyone wants to live longer and the best way to do so isn’t any secret – eat right and get plenty of exercise. Having an aging body doesn’t have to mean giving up on exercise. Here are four great ways for you to continue getting exercise as you age.
Find a Walking Buddy
Walking is probably the easiest way for many people to get exercise. It is low impact, so it’s easy on aging joints, and be done at any pace and any time of day. Not only will it increase cardiovascular fitness, preventing heart disease and stroke, it will also help strengthen bone and improve balance. Walking with a buddy is a great way to pass the time with great conversation and will help you keep an appropriate pace.
Join the Local Pool
Not only are swimming & water exercise easy on the joints, but they can be beneficial to you no matter your current fitness level. Water exercise will strengthen your heart and help you build longer, leaner muscles which increases metabolism. Heated water can help relax muscles, increase flexibility, and flush out toxins to prevent stiff or sore muscles due to lactic acid build up. Swimming is an effective form of weight loss that can help you meet and maintain weight loss goals.
Retire to a Community with Activities
Living in a retirement community that offers daily activities to their residents is a surefire way to get some exercise. Not only are activities like tennis, swimming, and walking accessible, they’ll be attended by your neighbors. This is a great way to make friends and stay connected which is considered an important factor in increased longevity. Residents looking for independent living in Tucson can be sure to find their quality of life increased by joining groups of people who enjoy participating in the same activities.
Invest in a Small Set of Weights
When considering free weights, the senior community doesn’t require more than about 5lb handheld dumbbells. One set of these can easily be found for less than $20, and keeping them in your bedroom or living room is a great way to have a little extra exercise handy at any time of day. Lifting 5lb weights for just a couple of minutes while watching TV or listening to the radio can help boost serotonin levels, increase coordination and strengthen muscles.
Find a physical activity that you enjoy and increase your health while having fun. Invite friends to join you or make some new ones along the way. Either way, it’s a win-win situation!
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