Smart Senior

Fun and activity, strange bedfellows, you might be thinking. Whether you exercised as a young adult or not, you probably have some rather pointed opinions about the subject.
Seniors grew up before going to the gym and running marathons became the “thing” to do. You stayed fit by hard work and didn’t think much about it.
Hard work is not really an option now, but our bodies still need and crave exercise. “Use it or lose it” is not a myth; losing anything is not an option.
Hard work, if you remember, was satisfying, but seldom fun. The same could be said about lifting weights, pumping iron, or training for a marathon. By the time you reach 60, 70, 80 or beyond, your obsession with weight loss and six-pack abs are less important. Still, researchers tell us that to stay healthy and active we need to keep moving.
Physical manifestations happen; hips, knees, feet and decreasing endurance make it harder to put one foot in front of other. You are not alone if you just want to give up.
What can you do to make physical activity more interesting? Activity doesn’t necessarily mean going to the gym. All activity counts. How about dancing? You must admit that dancing is a fun way to keep in shape while improving your balance and coordination. On top of that, many dances can be done without a partner.
If music doesn’t do it for you, try exploring the world of yoga and tai chi. If you like the quieter Zen experience, you will be pleased to know that strength, balance, flexibility and coordination come into play here too.
Too much like exercise and not fun. If you have always been a sports enthusiast, you might try a low impact sport that is kinder to the aging body.
Sports, ugh, you say. How about yard work and gardening? Explore the world of raised garden beds or container gardening. Commune with nature and enjoy home grown tomatoes and strawberries.
Last resort: dust off the bike hidden in the back of the garage or go for a walk; just keep moving.