As the weather gets colder, it can be hard to stay active. Nonetheless, regular exercise is essential for good health. In fact, the NHS recommends being active every day. According to their guidelines, adults aged 65 and over should aim for 150 minutes of exercise throughout the week. Here are our top tips on how to stay active during the colder months. For more advice on keeping warm in winter, click here.
1. Go for a Walk
There’s nothing quite like wrapping up warm and going out for a walk. However, when it’s freezing cold or raining, a walk might not sound so appealing. Alternatively, try and find a shopping centre or a community centre and go for a walk in a well-heated place. This will help you stay warm and comfortable while you exercise. If you want to get some fresh air and walk outside, make sure to layer up. A warm hat and gloves will be essential.
2. Find a Community Centre or Gym
Under normal circumstances, most community centres hold frequent exercise sessions and classes. This can be a great chance to meet new people and make friends who share your interests. Community centres, gyms, and other organisations (such as Age UK branches) can also give you the opportunity to try new kinds of exercise. From yoga to zumba to tai chi, there is a class for everybody! Obviously, the pandemic has interrupted many of these services. It’s worth doing some research to see what is still running in your area.
3. Put on your Dancing Shoes
Not only is dancing a great way to stay active, it also boosts your mood and reduces stress! You can dance alone, with a partner, or in a group. What’s more, there are so many different styles of dance to choose from. You could join a local class in person or find lessons online (YouTube is full of tutorials). Alternatively, just turn on your favourite music and get moving at home! Make sure you warm up with a few stretches and move any trip hazards out of the way.
4. Swimming
Swimming is a great activity all year round. It’s an incredibly effective form of exercise, increasing your cardiovascular fitness and building muscle all at once. You can also try other forms of exercise in the pool – aqua aerobics is a popular option. Swimming is a particularly good choice for older people because the water will bear most of your weight, reducing the strain on your joints.
Stay Active and Independent with Carelink
It’s great to continue doing what you love while staying safe and looking after yourself. A Carelink alarm can help you continue living safely in your home, by connecting you to our 24-hour Care Team. If you ever have a fall at home, all you need to do is press your Carelink alarm button. Our Care Team will answer your call and send help directly to you.
For more information, give us a call for free on 0800 0076 247 or get in touch online.
You can also order your Carelink alarm online, alongside a range of helpful accessories.
Editor’s Note: This article was updated on 11th October 2021 to reflect current information.