Older People

Activity Examples:

T'ai Chi:

T'ai Chi is peaceful and mentally relaxing, and also has many health and fitness benefits. It is a slow sequence of movements that develops strength, flexibility, body awareness and especially balance. Suitable for all fitness levels, it also reduces anxiety and stress.

Dancing:

Depending on how vigorously you dance, how long you dance continuously, and how regularly you do it, this type of activity can lead to a lower blood pressure, improved cholesterol levels, and a reduced heart rate.

People up and down the country are getting swept up in the latest dance crazes from belly dancing to line dancing and from tea dances to creative dance. Learning the dance moves is as effective as a low-impact workout and helps improve memory ability.

Gym Sessions:

Local authority gyms will be happy to provide you with help and advice on appropriate classes to take. Some even offer tailor made fitness programmes or classes for you to follow.

Yoga:

There are different types of yoga, some more strenuous than others. Yoga helps to maintain flexibility, muscle tone and strength, reduce anxiety and develop body awareness.

Team Sports:

Playing a game of tennis or badminton doubles is a textbook way of maintaining cardiovascular fitness, speed and stamina in later life. But the recommendation from experts is to start off slowly and build up gradually. Leisure centres in your area may have specific over 50 classes set aside in their daily timetables.