Gentle Activities
Find an activity you enjoy…
Regular exercise will benefit you whatever your age or level of fitness. As you get older it is often believed that you should do less exercise and cut down on physical activity, when in fact regular exercise in moderation is just what you need! Leave behind the idea of strenuous and tiring workouts and focus on finding an activity which you will enjoy. The right activity will motivate you to continue, plus your health and fitness will increase without you even noticing.
There are four types of exercise recommended for the older age group; strength, balance, stretching and endurance. Achieving a mixture of these exercise types will not only mean that you will start to feel the benefit right now, it will also prepare your body for later life.
Exercising is just as good for the mind as the body; the huge popularity of techniques such as yoga, pilates and tai chi have meant that exercise no longer has to be a struggle or uninspiring. It can be stress relieving, relaxing and most of all enjoyable. Also joining a class is a good way to socialise and meet new people in the local area.
Your local leisure centre will have lots of classes and activities running throughout the year which are ideal for the more relaxing workout:
Yoga
Yoga is great for increasing flexibility and the lubrication of joints. It also tones the muscles all over your body through its many positions and stretches; it offers a complete detoxification and will leave you feeling refreshed and relaxed after each session.
Pilates
Pilates teaches body awareness, good posture and easy, graceful movement. It improves flexibility, agility and can even help alleviate back pain. Pilates focuses mainly on cultivating core strength in the body and lengthening the spine.
Tai Chi
Relax and enjoy the ancient martial art of Tai Chi. This is a gentle activity the improves balance and core stability, making you more flexible and toned.
Swimming/Aquatone
If you prefer to make a splash with your exercise routine visit your local swimming pool! Swimming is an excellent all-round activity that targets all areas of the body. Due to its gentle nature, it is good for people who may be recovering from an injury as it places very little stree on your joints and muscles. Vary your swimming strokes to getthe most of your workout. You can also find out about swimming lessons if you want a bit more confidence or to improve your stroke!
Contact your local Leisure Centre for information on class times.