Five Tips to Help Seniors Stay Active and Fit

Just because you've reached your golden years doesn't mean you’re relegated to a rocking chair!

1. Make fitness a priority. It’s hard to fit in a walk, yoga or t’ai chi when there are so many other activities vying for our time. Making fitness a priority may mean moving around other activities to make time for activity. We tend to get things done when we deem them important, and fitness is no exception.
2. Incorporate fitness into daily activities, and make it easy. Set small, manageable fitness goals. Make fitness easy to include in your daily life. Park a little further away from the store. Take the stairs if your health conditions allow it. If you love being outside, gardening, mowing the lawn, walking, bicycling or canoeing are great activities to enjoy time in nature and get some physical fitness into your day. If it’s not fun or if it’s too hard to do, you won’t do it!
3. Keep fitness safe. The National Institute of Health states that moderate to brisk walking is safe for most individuals. Start slowly and build up your stamina gradually. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, ask your doctor before starting a fitness routine. Wear a helmet while bicycling, and get a checkup before undertaking any strenuous activity. If discomfort occurs after exercise, have it checked out by your physician promptly.
4. Make exercise social. Meeting a friend for a morning walk or a golf game helps you keep your commitment to exercise. Numerous studies have shown that people are more likely to stick to a workout regimen if they exercise with a partner or friend.
5. Shake up your routine; keep it interesting and fun.  After a few weeks, the same walking route can get boring. Shake up your workout regimen for variety and fun. Keep your routine interesting and fun by adding variety, trying new activities, and exploring new sports.

Even small activities, done consistently, yield big benefits. A few steps a day can really add up for improved health and fitness. People of all ages can benefit from increasing their daily activity level. It’s good for your body, mind and spirit!

Source: http://www.brightstarcare.com