Getting older shouldn't mean hanging up your sneakers. In fact, seniors should continue to get as much exercise as possible to retain balance, coordination and strength. Don't worry if spending hours on a treadmill isn't your thing. You can spend time with family and friends, get outside and even watch television while you exercise.
Water Activities
Low resistance and no chance of injury from a fall make water sports an excellent choice for seniors. Sign up for a water aerobics class at your community center or municipal pool. In addition to burning calories and getting your heart rate up, you'll meet other like-minded seniors. If you're more of a solo exerciser, try swimming laps and timing yourself. Work to beat your best time every time you swim, and you'll see improved endurance and muscle tone. Or try diving sticks. Divide your friends into teams, throw in the sticks and race to pick them up. But don't try diving if you get short of breath easily or aren't comfortable being underwater.
Strength Training
Don't let your muscles go just because you're getting older. Find a friend and develop a strength-training plan together. Go to the gym together and chat while you work out. Or invite other senior friends to your home. Ask them to bring a set of light free weights and work out together while you watch a movie. If you prefer to go it alone, hire a personal trainer, if possible. The individual attention, personalized plan and regular feedback can give your self-confidence a boost and help you look forward to working out.
Cycling
Riding your bike is one of the best ways to build lean muscle and keep up your endurance. Organize your friends into a cycling group or join an existing one for seniors. Focus on completing the ride, not being the fastest. If you prefer to stay off the open roads, get a stationary bike or ride one at the gym. You can control the speed and level of resistance and even chat with a friend while you work out. Cycling is especially good for seniors with knee injuries; it provides a way to keep the knees active without overworking them.
Dance
You don't have to be young to hit the dance floor. Join a square-dancing group. With a huge national following and dozens of chapters in many states, you're sure to get a workout and meet lots of new people. Or grab your spouse or a friend and take waltzing or salsa lessons. You'll learn something new and get a workout, too. Join your local senior center for dance nights and dance old favorites like the Charleston and the jitterbug.
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