Although Columbus, Ohio may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of healthy living, seniors in the area may be surprised at what they find. With an extensive metro parks system, the city offers opportunities for outdoor activities including hiking, bird watching and biking. Columbus also boasts an active cultural scene with museums such as the Ohio Craft Museum and Center of Science and Industry. Regardless of the activity you choose, be sure to see if the location offers senior discounts, as many do.
A Day at the Park
Visit one of the parks in the Columbus Metro Park system. If you're near the downtown area, escape the city's hustle and bustle by visiting the Scioto Audubon, which offers a greenway trail and 71 acres of land to explore. Blendon Woods offers 653 acres of space, including a large lake and seven hiking trails. The park system offers activities specifically targeted at those 50 and over, such as plant identification classes and yoga.
Play Softball
If you live in the Columbus area, join up with the Central Ohio Senior Softball Association. There are a number of teams in the area. While most are for men only, there are also two women's teams. Teams are based on your age and play at Lou Berliner Park in the city, which is the largest softball complex in the United States.
Work Out at the Senior Center
The Columbus Recreation and Parks department runs the Martin Janis Senior Center and the Gillie Senior Center for those 50 and over. Both facilities offer a fitness room, weight room, dance room and billiards room for staying active. Other amenities at both locations include a dining room, ceramics studios and crafts room. Take a class to stay fit, such as aerobics, yoga, chair volleyball, tai chi or western square dance.
Take a Cooking Class
It's never too late to learn something new, so brush up on your culinary skills at a Columbus cooking class. Places such as the North Market School of Cooking, Whole Foods and The Culinary Table offer a wide range of one-day workshops and long-running classes. North Market is a large, public market where you can purchase fresh, local ingredients, so pick some up after class to make a healthy meal and test out your new skills.
Go for a Swim
Swimming offers a low-impact form of exercise for aging joints. Take advantage of the Active Older Adults program offered at various branches of the Columbus YMCA. You can take classes in swimming and water exercise as well as participate in open swims. The Columbus Recreation and Parks Department also offers places to swim, with 10 public pool locations and the Columbus Aquatics Center.
