Warmer weather can often make it easier to squeeze in more exercise.
With warmer weather on the way, it’s time to shake off hibernation and get back on the move! These spring exercises for seniors will get you out and enjoying this refreshing and breezy season. Remember, it’s best to consult a medical professional before you start any new fitness routine.
Here are five of our favorite spring workout ideas for seniors:
- Bike riding
- Yoga
- Brisk walking
- Gardening
- Low-impact sports
- Playing with grandkids
Learn more about these spring exercises for seniors and their benefits below.
Bike riding
Biking is one of the best exercises for seniors, as it is gentle on the joints while helping to improve heart health and overall physical strength. You may be able to find a scenic dedicated bike path in your area or pedal around low-traffic back roads. Be sure to follow safety precautions, such as wearing a helmet, to help ensure a safe ride.
Yoga
Yoga has a variety of benefits for seniors, from arthritis relief to improving muscle strength. As the weather warms up, look for springtime classes or local meetup groups that take their group outside on a beautiful day. If you want to do yoga on your own, consider learning a few moves like these yoga exercises that can help promote better hearing, and practice them in your backyard, at a park, or on a scenic hill or beach this spring
Brisk walking
Walking is one of the most accessible spring workout ideas for seniors because all you need are walking shoes and outdoor space to get moving! Whether you walk around your block, visit a local park, or even tackle a hiking trail, the benefits of daily walking are powerful health-boosters for seniors. Better sleep, a stronger immune system, and a boost in mood are just a few perks you may notice.
Gardening
You might think of gardening as more a hobby than an exercise, but who’s to say it can’t be both!? The health benefits of gardening for seniors include stress reduction, defense against dementia, and increased physical strength thanks to the variety of movements involved in gardening. Plus, you can make your diet healthier while you’re at it by planting nutritious spring veggies. Or, consider starting a beautiful flower garden.
Low-impact sports
Do you have a healthy competitive streak? Perhaps you’d like to seek out a group of seniors who’ll join you for regular matches of tennis, badminton, golf, croquet, or other fun sports for seniors. Creating a casual senior sports team offers a social outlet and comes with a myriad of physical health benefits of being active.
Playing with grandkids
You’re not the only one who’ll be smiling during this fun spring exercise for seniors! Plan a day with the grandkids or other young person in your life to fly kites, play frisbee, play tag on the playground, or other activities that will have everyone on the move. You could also consider participating in a program like Generation to Generation that unites seniors with children who could use a positive influence in their lives.
Which spring workout ideas for seniors are you looking forward to this year? Explore more senior living and wellness content on our blog.
