Over 50? How do you keep active?
Lifestyle fifty plus and keeping active
Research has shown that, In England, just 32% of men over 50 and 21% of women undertake the 'recommended' 30 minutes of daily exercise (be that walking, cycling or swimming). In Scotland that figure is 29% and 19% per cent respectively. If you then look more closely at 65+ just 17% of men (14% in Scotland) and 12% of women (8% in Scotland) are currently taking the recommended amount of daily exercise.
Good health is essential for the over 50,s as research has shown that a high percentage of 50,s and over are not leading an active lifestyle. There are many benefits to leading a healthy life and regularly exercising as follows:
1. A reduced risk of developing a life-threatening disease
30 minutes regular exercise 5 times a week can have a positive effect on the heart, limbs and circulation system ,all very important for the over fifties
2. Maintaining healthy weight
Metabolism drops by 5% each decade so past 35 your body will naturally gain weight without increasing food intake so exercise is essential to keeping trim and beating obesity
3. Arthritis
People with arthritis should exercise each day to prevent joints becoming stiff and painful and to keep muscles strong.
4. Back problems
Stresses and strains can build up over time. Gentle exercise will help build the muscles in the stomach and back which support the spine and maintain flexibility.
5. A greater sense of well being
If you stay physically active, you’re likely also likely to stay independent for longer. Exercise can make you stronger and have a positive effect on your mental health by making you more alert and confident and maintaining a full and active lifestyle.
Getting started
It’s always best to consult a doctor prior to starting a new exercise routine.
· A brisk 30 minutes walk 5 times a week.
· Swimming, a gentle but effective way to enjoy exercise, check out all your local centre’s many community pools now offer an over fifties lane swim which is a chance to also meet new people.
· Dance classes KFA has details of keep fit by movement classes across the country. Lots of fun http://www.keepfit.org.uk/.
· Thai chi, this ancient Chinese martial art has been practiced for years to benefit health and is a soft and gentle form of exercise.
· Leisure passes, many city’s run council fitness centre’s offering discount leisure cards for the over 60’s. The clubs offer many sports including tennis over fifties aerobics, aqua fit and personal training. To see where you local centre is click the link below
· http://local.direct.gov.uk/LDGRedirect/index.jsp?LGSL=456&LGIL=8
· Golf is the perfect game for Adults- breathtaking scenery, fresh air, camaraderie and brisk walking.
Everyone can benefit from an active lifestyle, it will improve your mobility, help you sleep well at night, keep you focused, give you more energy and you may make some good friends along the way. All ways incorporate an active lifestyle with a balanced diet.
Whatever you choice of exercise get started now and enjoy a full and active over 50,s lifestyle.
The opinions expressed are those of the author only. The material is for general information only and does not constitute legal, financial or other form of advice. You should not rely on this information to make (or refrain from making) any decisions. Always obtain independent, professional advice for your own particular situation by an FSA authorised company where the market is FSA regulated.