Find An Exercise You Love to Ensure Routine Participation

There are countless studies showing that physical activity helps improve mental and physical health, and that exercise becomes even more important as we age. But, for many, exercise feels like a chore, so we place it increasingly lower on our list of things to do. Experts say an effective way to end that cycle is to find an exercise that you genuinely enjoy. When we engage in activities we like—such as tennis, hiking, swimming, even gardening—exercise becomes something we look forward to instead of something we dread.

Some of the key benefits of exercise for older adults include bone loss prevention, osteoarthritis pain relief, and prevention of chronic disease, such as diabetes and obesity. Exercise can even help reduce cognitive decline. One study found that participants over the age of 60 showed fewer Alzheimer’s disease biomarkers when they performed 30 minutes of exercise every day. If all of that isn’t enough, consider that exercise eases anxiety and depression symptoms, and can create an overall sense of well-being.

Find an Activity You Enjoy

To reap the many physical and mental benefits of exercise, it must be done on a consistent basis—hence the importance of finding something you enjoy. You may need to try new things before something resonates. “Breaking out of your comfort zone is fine, but you may need to make modifications for your particular medical conditions or physical limitations, so it’s important to speak to your doctor about participating in new activities,” says Jaclyn H. Bonder, MD, Medical Director, Women’s Health Rehabilitation, Weill Cornell Medicine. “For instance, if you want to work on your balance, there are medical conditions that influence whether you should choose strengthening with weights, Pilates or tai chi, and your doctor can provide guidance on that.”

Fun Exercise Options

Ideally, exercise routines for older adults should incorporate a blend of aerobic exercise, strength/resistance training, and stretching/flexibility exercises. “These elements work together synergistically to improve your overall health in many ways, including enhancing your cardiovascular health, preventing falls, supporting your joints, and decreasing pain,” says Dr. Bonder.

Sometimes exercise is more enjoyable with a friend. If you lack a fitness partner, a community-based program, such as an exercise class at your local senior center or YMCA, can provide the social connection and motivation you need to stick with it. Exercising in a group setting also provides an added layer of safety for people with mobility limitations who can benefit from supervision during activity.

Activities to Consider

Below are some options that can help you improve your mobility, build strength, enhance your balance and coordination, and expand your social circle.

Pickleball: Pickleball is worth considering if you are looking for a new sport to get and keep your attention. The pickleball court is much smaller than a tennis court, which means it is easier to keep the ball in play. Pickleball can give you a good aerobic workout without as much stress and strain on joints and muscles as other racquet sports.

Yoga: Yoga is a low-impact activity that helps build up your muscles, improve your flexibility, and strengthen your bones without straining your joints. Look for an introductory yoga class to help you master basic poses. Some yoga programs are specially designed for older adults and include seated and standing options.

Pilates: Like yoga, Pilates offers an effective workout while being gentle on joints. It focuses on building a strong core to improve balance and stability and has been shown to reduce the symptoms of arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease. Many of the exercises are performed in sitting or reclining positions.

Benefits of Staying Active

Another benefit to finding your fitness passion is that it can enhance your social life. Engaging in an exercise you love allows you to connect with like-minded individuals who share similar interests. Whether it’s joining a bowling league or attending group fitness classes, you’ll have the opportunity to meet people and build relationships.

There are countless benefits to staying fit, but it may take time to find activities that spark joy. You may have to break out of your comfort zone and try new things. Remember that the goal is to find an exercise or sport that you enjoy so you will be eager to regularly participate.

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