Active ageing – the physical side

Physical activity is essential to healthy ageing

As an older adult, regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health. It can manage positively many of the health problems that seem to come with age. It also helps your muscles grow stronger so you can keep doing your day-to-day activities without becoming dependent on others.

Keep in mind, some physical activity is better than none at all. Your health benefits will also increase with the more physical activity that you do.

Older adults with chronic conditions should understand whether and how their conditions affect their ability to do regular physical activity safely. When older adults cannot do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity a week (for example, 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week) because of chronic conditions, they should be as physically active as their abilities and conditions allow.

Move More and Sit Less

Older adults should move more and sit less throughout the day. Keep in mind, some physical activity is better than none. Older adults who sit less and do any amount of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity gain some health benefits. Your health benefits will also increase with the more physical activity that you do.

Even if you’re 65 years of age or older, are generally fit, and have no limiting health conditions, you can engage in a level of regular physical activity to make the most of the health and wellness benefits of exercise as we age.

Of course, if you have underlying health problems you should consult your GP before embarking on a fitness program.