For some people, it’s hard staying active in retirement and it’s common for people that have worked their entire life to want to stay at home and live a very quiet and peaceful life. Though there is nothing wrong with living that way, some people take this to the extreme and never leave the comfort of their home, creating major health risks.
If a retiree spends too much at home, not making it a point to practice an active lifestyle, he or she put themself at risk for weight gain, joint and muscle issues, and weak bones.
Top 5 Ways to Stay Active in Your Retirement Years
Staying active is important for people who are in their retirement years in order to get the best quality of life. In fact, it’s so important for retirees that many retirement communities make it a point to offer a variety of physical and mentally stimulating activities. For example, a retirement community in PA offers activities from nature walks to aerobics, and even swimming for its residents.
Here are some ideas to help you or a loved one stay active after retirement.
1. Join a Workout Class
Workout classes have many benefits for retirees. Not only will you or a loved one get the opportunity to stay active in a fun and exciting way, but it’s also a great way to meet new people. Workout classes will give you or a loved something to look forward to as days are less hectic than they were before retiring.
You can go to workout classes alone, with a spouse, or another family member or friend. Often, workout classes offer discounts for people over the age of 55, or they are offered at retirement communities all over the country.
You can also do online workouts in the comfort of your home. Here are some of the best for active older women.
Workout classes to consider are:
- Yoga
- Zumba
- Pilates
- Weight Training
- Dance
- Swimming
There are many options when it comes to different workout classes for seniors. Check online to see what you can find locally.
2. Learn a New Sport
Similar to joining a workout class, learning a new sport can very much be worth your while to stay active after retirement. Sports provide fun and entertainment while also providing a way to stay in shape.
It’s important to always learn new things in life, and now that you or your loved one has more time, learning a new sport could show you a whole new passion you didn’t know that you had.
Here are some sports that are easy to learn and safe for retirees:
- Tennis
- Golf
- Pickleball
- Badminton
- Bocce Ball
These sports will also keep your heart healthy because of the amount of cardio they require.
3. Spend Time in Your Yard
Spending time outside is important not only for physical health but for your mental health as well. The outdoors provide wellness for your mind and body. In terms of staying active, spending time in your yard is a relaxing way to do this.
Yards require a lot of maintenance in order to look great; giving you the perfect opportunity to stay active and create a beautiful outdoor environment. Here are some ideas to help you stay active in your yard:
- Cut your own grass as long as you are able, instead of hiring someone to do it
- Take up gardening
- Pull weeds
- Play with kids, grandkids, and pets outside
- Build yard decors such as a fireplace or seating area
4. Get a Pet
Pets are a great way to ensure that you will stay active after retirement. Pets require a lot of attention and training, giving the owner almost no choice but to stay active. Your retirement years may be the best time to get a pet because of the amount of time you now have on your hands.
Pets, especially dogs, will keep you on your feet and will give you a reason to get up because you will need to play, feed, clean and even walk them. They offer a surefire way for you to stay active.
5. Make it a Point to Go on a Daily Walk
This is a simple way to stay active. Going on a daily walk, alone or with a loved one, is a fantastic way to keep your body moving and healthy. A daily walk can be as long or as short as you want, but aiming for about two miles a day is a great goal to keep in mind. Walks are also an excellent way to get outside and enjoy the fresh air.
Stay Active in Your Retirement Years
Keep these suggestions in mind as you think of ways to stay active after retirement. For better health and wellness, it’s important to keep your mind engaged and body healthy. These activities will do just that.
What do you do to stay active? Please leave a comment below.
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