Being fit and healthy is easier than you think and doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg.
Protecting your wellbeing is one of the keys to ageing well and one of the simplest ways to keep healthy is to avoid a sedentary lifestyle. The lure of the couch can be strong, but regular physical activity has many benefits – from improved mood to less reliance on medication.
Fortunately, there are many ways to stay active without having to spend on memberships or equipment. Activities like walking, swimming and gardening are free, while many community organisations run low-cost exercise classes for seniors.
Benefits of strength training
Tiffany Toombs, Manager at Melbourne’s Woodford Sports Science Consulting, says strength and balance training are essential for older people. “For women over 60, it’s important to strength train. When women hit menopause they tend to see a decrease in bone density and weight training will help reduce this,” comments Tiffany.
Weight training can also help prevent falls and musculoskeletal injuries. “As you age it’s important to incorporate balance training into your routine to build the core. This can be as simple as standing on one leg,” says Tiffany.
The National Ageing Research Institute (NARI) has found fall prevention is crucial for older people. Seniors presenting at hospital after a fall are more at risk of functional decline, so avoiding falls is paramount. Increasing core strength, balance and coordination will help.
Whether you’ve let your exercise routine slip or haven’t tried a new activity for ages, it’s never too late to reap the benefits of more movement into your life!
If you want to buy sporting gear, remember garage sales, op shops and eBay can be great sources of more affordable second-hand sporting equipment.
Start slowly and set small goals, especially if you’ve had a break from physical activity.
Consider returning to a sport you pursued in your youth. You’ll regain the skills and remember the rules.
Remember to consult your doctor before starting any new exercise program.
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