As active 55+ adults, we're always conscious about staying fit and healthy enough to maintain our activities and independence. Even if we're not quite conquering the same mountains—figuratively or literally—as we were 30 years ago, we still don't want to slow down too much. Not when there's so much fun to be had, so many beautiful and exciting places to explore, and so many interests to pursue. 

A regular exercise regimen is important to continuing our active and independent lifestyle, as well as to keeping mentally sharp and in good spirits. It helps control blood pressure, cholesterol, and weight, plus it helps prevent or manage heart disease, diabetes, certain types of cancer and autoimmune disorders, arthritis, and other conditions. 

Because there's a lot about your overall health and risk factors to take into account, get personalized advice from your primary care doctor about exercising safely. 

Here's some good general advice about exercising safely in your senior years. Just remember that what your doctor says always comes first. 

Incorporate 4 Types of Exercise into Your Regimen 

There are four primary classes of exercise, and doing some of each type helps maximize the benefits you get from your regimen: 

  • Aerobic exercises increase your heart and respiration rate and are good for burning calories, strengthening your heart, boosting endurance, and lots more
  • Strength training builds muscle and reduces body fat, and is good for becoming stronger
  • Flexibility training make you more limber and is good for improving joint condition
  • Balance exercises help you stay steady and are good for preventing falls and being able to keep up the other three types 

Perform Low-Impact Exercises 

As we age, our joints lose some of the compounds that protect them and our bones density decreases. That's why arthritis and fractures are a much bigger concern for the 55+ crowd than for younger folks. High-impact exercises like running can aggravate bone and joint problems, as well as cause foot, back, and neck pain. 

Instead, favor low-impact exercises. This is most relevant to the aerobic exercise category. Brisk walking, swimming, water aerobics (many 55+ community lifestyle programs offer these classes), bicycling, and ellipticals are good examples of low-impact workouts. Take advantage of the fitness center equipment, pool, fitness classes, and walking trails at your active-adult community. 

For some specific exercise ideas and how-tos, check out 11 Easy Exercises You Can Do Today from Everyday Health's Senior Health section. 

Perform Movement-Based Exercise 

Movement-based activities like yoga and tai chi are excellent for keeping active adults active. They're particularly useful for providing balance and flexibility exercises. These types of activities don't just help you stay lithe and in good shape; they're also great at reducing stress, elevating your mood, and promoting better concentration. Many active-adult communities offer yoga and/or tai chi classes as part of their lifestyle program. Take advantage, because you definitely need experienced guidance to learn and perform these exercises correctly. 

Benefit from Active-Adult Community Amenities and Programs 

There are numerous fantastic age-restricted communities across Central Florida where it's easy for seniors to access the equipment, facilities, and instruction they need to keep up with a safe and sustainable exercise regimen. Fully equipped fitness centers, lap and full-size swimming pools, nature trails, a variety of sports courts, and fitness classes are found at many resort-style 55+ communities in the area. 

If you're interested in finding the perfect home in an active-adult community in Central Florida where you can readily access everything you need to focus on fitness, we're standing by to help.