Crisp air, vibrant leaves, pumpkins, and apples. As the weather cools down, it’s a great time to get outside and enjoy some physical activity.
However, it’s not always easy to stick to an exercise routine as autumn arrives. Many people find their habits tend to shift with the seasons. With chilly temps, fewer daylight hours, and holidays right around the corner, it’s easy to put off plans to exercise until the new year.
Physical activity is worth our time. Exercise supports healthy joints, mental health, wellness, and longevity. Small changes can make a big difference in our heart health and can help us feel our best.
Fitness in a Senior Living Community
Whether you’re new to working out or you’ve had a solid fitness routine for decades, a workout buddy can make all the difference. When you live in a community of seniors, there’s always someone you can ask to meet for a walk or join you for a new fitness class. Many people enjoy the encouragement, motivation, and fun that comes with working out with others.
Change It Up
As fall approaches, it’s a great time to build new habits and shift our mindset around fitness. There’s no need to spend hours on the treadmill or elliptical machine. Instead, we can incorporate movement into our day and take advantage of cooler temperatures with these ideas.
- Explore parks and nature trails in your area.
- Fish in a local pond.
- Find a walking buddy.
- Plant fall flowers.
- Try a new exercise class.
- Take a yoga mat outdoors for gentle stretching.
- Volunteer to walk dogs at an animal shelter.
- Go apple picking.
- Walk through a farmer’s market.
Start Small
Workouts don’t need to take a full half hour or hour in order to be effective. Doctors recommend 30 minutes of physical activity a day, but it doesn’t have to be done all at once.
Breaking up the 30 minutes into three 10-minute sessions provides the same health benefits as one 30-minute workout session.
If you do find you enjoy a group atmosphere, you’ll find plenty of options for classes in your Senior Star Community.
Try Senior Star Signature Programs like Zumba Gold®, ShapeMaster®, Laughter Yoga, or even a Rock Steady Boxing class.
Any type of movement that makes your heart beat faster is beneficial.
Get Creative
Don’t feel like getting out? There are plenty of things you can do right in your living room.
- Turn on some tunes and have a dance party in your living room.
- Use canned goods instead of weights for a quick arm workout.
- Stand on your toes as you brush your teeth to work on your balance.
- Get active while watching TV. Use commercial breaks to jog in place or do pushups against a wall.
No matter how you like to move, there is something for everyone. Movement and exercise does not need to be overwhelming or time-consuming. Make time for movement each day and you’ll be well on your way to feel your best.
Interested in learning more about Senior Star’s wellness initiatives and signature programs? Check out this guide or contact us to learn more.
Read more: Five Ways Fall Traditions Can Grow With Senior Living