If you’ve ever looked back and thought, “I wish I had stayed in shape,” here’s some good news: it’s not too late. In fact, starting an exercise routine now—no matter your age—can boost your physical strength, sharpen your mind and lift your spirits in ways you might not have expected.
Most of us know there are benefits of exercising regularly, including helping us feel good, live independently and enjoy life to the fullest. But what many people find challenging is how to create a routine they can maintain.
One key to staying in shape? Make sure to consider not only the types of exercises and number of repetitions but how you can stay motivated.
The following tips can help you create a routine that’s a good fit and one that can easily become a part of your daily life:
1. Redefine What Fitness Means to You
Your plan should support you to feel capable, confident and independent. Remind yourself that the following benefits can be achieved through a regular exercise program, which can also make your life easier and more manageable:
- Increased flexibility and mobility to stay agile and walk without pain
- Maintain strength to keep doing daily tasks such as carrying groceries
- Build muscle strength so you can get out of a chair without struggling
- Boosting endurance for energy that lasts through the day
2. Listen to Your Body (and Your Doctor)
Before starting a new routine to stay in shape—especially if you’ve been sedentary or have chronic conditions—check in with your medical team. They can also offer tips tailored to your health needs or the best way to begin.
Once you’re moving, pay attention to any new shortness of breath, dizziness, increased fatigue or sharp pain. A little soreness can be normal, but you shouldn’t experience pain.
3. Start Small—But Start
Many people place obstacles in their own way by believing they don’t have the time to exercise, or that they need an expensive gym membership or complicated equipment. Luckily, it’s much simpler to start moving.
Here are a few suggestions to effectively build your exercise routine:
Schedule a time to begin your program and remember, you can also break up the activities throughout the day if that helps. You can do morning stretches with your coffee, take a short walk after lunch or practice light yoga before dinner.
Begin with 10 minutes. A quick stretch or walk is a great way to start and build up from there.
Do what you enjoy. If you hate walking on treadmills, then don’t. Take a walk outside. Do you love music? Dancing is a natural exercise. Consistency beats intensity. Every little bit counts and adds up fast.
4. Choose a Mix of Movements
Include different types of activities. This can provide optimum benefits and also help avoid boredom, which is often the first step to quitting an exercise routine. Here are a few choices to consider when creating your plan to stay in shape:
Strength: Use light weights, resistance bands or your own body weight (think wall push-ups or chair squats). Maintaining muscle and bone strength can result from exercising just 2 – 3 times a week.
Flexibility: Try simple stretches, yoga or tai chi. These improve mobility, reduce stiffness and can help prevent injury.
Cardio: Walking, swimming, biking, dancing—even energetic moving while cleaning can raise your heart rate and boost endurance.
Balance: Single-leg stands, heel-to-toe walking and participating in classes focused on fall prevention can help you stay steady on your feet.
5. Reframe Staying in Shape for Motivation
Telling yourself to exercise because it’s the right thing to do isn’t enough to keep you motivated. Try seeing your routine as necessary so you can keep doing what you love.
Exercising can help you garden without pain, keep up with the grandkids, travel, play pickleball or volunteer. All of these options are made easier by staying strong.
6. Take Advantage of Independent Living Communities
A great but often overlooked benefit of independent living communities is how easy it is to stay in shape with the many resources offered right outside your front door.
Whether it’s taking a walk, joining in a class or using the gym equipment the correct way, you may discover that exercise is not only enjoyable but more sustainable when you’re doing it with others.
Create a Realistic Routine That Works for You
Don’t set yourself up to fail.You’ll stick with it much more easily if it fits your lifestyle, energy level and interests. Just remember that it’s never too late to start and it’s never too early to begin again when it comes to staying in shape.
When you approach fitness as a celebration of what your body can do—and not as a punishment for what it can’t—you’ll find your routine starts to feel less like an unpleasant task and more like a gift.
Independent Living at Presbyterian Village North
We offer a unique blend of comfort, convenience and peace of mind with our non-profit senior living community set on 66 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. Whether you prefer a spacious apartment or a freestanding home, the variety of beautiful residences ensures you’ll find the perfect space to call your own.
With chef-prepared dining and a wide range of amenities, including a fitness center, therapeutic aquatic center and walking paths, every day offers opportunities to stay active and engaged. Residents enjoy a vibrant, welcoming community, open to all faiths, with endless opportunities for connection and personal growth.
From our on-campus pharmacy services to a resident clinic, professional security 24/7and a wireless emergency call system in every residence, your well-being is always a top priority. With exceptional amenities like a performing arts theater, woodworking shop, dog park, putting green and salon services, every detail is designed to enrich your life.
For more information about how Presbyterian Village North can help you or your loved one thrive in retirement, please reach out by calling (214) 355-9000 to request a personal tour or more details today.