Staying active is important for everyone, particularly older adults. If you are 55 or older, preserving your physical health is a key aspect to maintaining independence. A consistent workout routine will help you build strong bones and muscles, maintain good balance, and achieve lasting stamina. All these benefits translate to helping you bring groceries into the house, playing with your grandchildren and allowing you to be more resilient when you are ill or injured.
If you are living in an active adult community, like The Reserve of Geneva, or plan to move into one soon, the following tips can help you stay active and healthy as you age.
Benefits of Staying Fit as You Age
Even if you have never committed to a workout routine, it’s never too late to start. Regular physical activity for seniors helps improve mental and physical health, both of which will help you maintain your independence as you age. Benefits of pursuing an active lifestyle include:
- Prevention of disease, such as heart disease and diabetes
- Reduced risk of depression and improved mental health
- Increased strength and reduced risk for falls
- Improved sleep habits and decreased stress
- Lower risk of dementia
- More opportunities to socialize
Exercise After 55—Where to begin
Start Slow
Beginning an exercise routine will look different for everyone. Some adults may be starting from a sedentary lifestyle, while others may already benefit from some form of physical activity. Make sure you start at a pace that’s based on your ability. Start by making small changes, such as adding an afternoon walk to your daily schedule or joining a weekly low-impact workout class. Gradually introduce more challenging or frequent activities as you build up endurance.
Be Consistent
Consistency is key if you want to have a lasting effect on your lifestyle. Whether it’s walking your dog every morning around the block or attending a daily yoga session, make sure you stick with the routine if you want to see positive changes.
Set Goals
Setting a goal can be a great way to stay motivated and successful in your workout routine. For some adults, it could mean maintaining a healthy weight. For others it may be achieving a certain number of steps each day. Whatever it is, remember to celebrate your milestones as ways to encourage yourself in your fitness journey.
Find an Activity You Enjoy
The secret to long-term commitment when it comes to exercising is engaging in a physical activity you actually enjoy and look forward to. If group fitness isn’t your thing, consider inviting a friend to take daily walks with you or taking up a hobby that is more physically demanding, such as gardening.
Exercise With Others
Working out with other people can have a positive impact on your routine. When done in the company of others, exercise can be fun, help keep you accountable and encourage new friendships.
Talk to Your Doctor.
Finally, it’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before you start any fitness plan. Your doctor can help you determine the best form of exercise based on your individual health status and advise you on any health concerns.
We make it easy to live your best, active life.
At The Reserve of Geneva, our community is designed with active adults in mind. We cater to residents 55 and older by providing a wide range of activities and amenities that promote a healthy, active lifestyle. Our fully-equipped fitness center boasts a variety of machines and weights to help you reach your fitness goals. Prefer working out with others? Join one of our many group fitness classes, including gentle yoga, as a great way to move your body every week. Outside of the community, Geneva offers beautifully paved walking trails that weave throughout town and the surrounding neighborhoods. Take a brisk stroll with friends, walk your dog or bike with the grandkids. Whatever you choose, it’s important to add some form of exercise to your daily routine.
To learn more, or to schedule a tour of our active adult community, contact The Reserve of Geneva today!
