Sunny skies and warmer weather are finally here, which means it’s the perfect time to take your physical activities outside. Exercising outdoors can boost your mood and spirit, and help you maintain an active lifestyle that supports both your physical and cognitive health.
According to the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology’s 24-hour Movement guide, adults 65 and older should partake in at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous aerobic physical activity each week.
Here is a list of some things you can do to meet your quota. But remember to listen to your body! If it feels painful or too intense to continue the exercise, stop — it is not worth the pain.
Walking
Walking is a great low-impact outdoor fitness activity anyone can take part in. There are boundless benefits to walking daily which include boosted blood flow, stronger heart and bones, better sleep and mental health, and even a lower risk of dementia, stroke, colon cancer and diabetes. Plus, there is no special equipment needed — just you and your most comfortable pair of walking shoes, and you’re good to go!
Tai chi
Tai chi is a great exercise for the mind, body, and spirit. It is a low intensity activity with tremendous benefits for one’s balance, flexibility, and overall health.
The great thing about Tai chi is that it can be done anywhere, inside on a cloudy day, or outside in the park on a sunny day. Not only that, but Tai chi is often conducted in groups, making it a great place to find like-minded exercise buddies.
Yoga
If you feel like switching it up yoga is also a great exercise for flexibility and muscle building. While you will be working your muscles, there is minimal stress on your joints, so this would be great even if you are experiencing pain in your bones or joints.
If you are physically unable to partake in yoga or believe it would be too strenuous, consider chair yoga, an accessible form of yoga that places less stress on the muscles, joints, and bones. If you don’t have a chair, you can find a bench in a quaint neighborhood park and do some chair yoga on your own.
Swimming
Swimming is a fantastic way to stay active on those hot summer days. Like the other exercises, swimming is a low-impact activity, meaning it is unlikely to exacerbate any existing problems or pains. If you are unable to swim, even walking laps in the shallow end of the pool can elevate your heart rate and lead to health benefits.
Water Aerobics
If swimming is not for you, and you’re looking to be more active, consider water aerobics. Exercising in the water is ideal for those who suffer from arthritis and other forms of joint pain. The buoyancy of the water helps alleviate stress on your joints, enabling you to exercise carefree. Water aerobics improves your strength, flexibility, and balance with minimal stress on your body.
At Sorrento our recreation, fitness, learning, social, and volunteer programs are designed to help you live your best life. Stay fit and active by taking part in yoga, Tai chi or even take an aquafit class in the pool.
Visit the Services section on our website to learn more about our wellness services!