It is a natural part of life that health can start to become more challenging as we age. Luckily, we can take steps to preserve our health and keep diseases at bay. Staying active is one of the most important habits for seniors to prioritize as they age.
Whether it is through daily walks and workouts or group events with friends, exercise for seniors is key to living a healthy life. Sports are one of the best ways to stay active and have fun at the same time. Here are a few senior-friendly sports to try out.
Sports for Seniors to Start with
For seniors new to sports or exercise, it’s always a good idea to start slow and build from there. Seniors should start with low-impact sports that are easy to pick up but can be expanded to new levels and challenges over time.
Tai Chi
Tai chi is a Chinese martial art that involves moving in a series of gentle stretches and exercises that align the body and mind. Tai chi is one of the best exercises for seniors because it is slow and low-impact. Tai chi can be learned through live instruction, taught by a friend, or learned through guided videos.
Swimming
Swimming is another great exercise for seniors because it is low-impact and accessible for seniors of all ability types. Swimming can be done competitively by swimming laps or solo by moving from one side of the pool to the other. Swimming can also be done in groups for the added benefit of social interaction.
Walking
Walking is one of the best exercises for seniors. According to Harvard Health Publishing, daily walks have numerous health benefits and help keep a number of chronic conditions at bay, including:
- Heart disease
- Lung disease
- Stroke
- Cancer
- High blood pressure
- Type 2 diabetes
Walking is an easy and effective way to stay active, reset the mind and body, and connect with friends.
Popular Sports for Seniors
One of the benefits of getting older is the additional free time to explore new interests and hobbies. Exploring senior-friendly sports is a worthwhile exercise that can improve physical health, mental health, and even new friends. Here are a few popular sports for seniors.
Golf
Golf is a great mix of competition, exercise, and social interaction. Seniors of most mobility types can partake in the sport, and anyone can learn how to play. Golf can take years to master, giving seniors a long-term goal to work toward.
Pickleball
Pickleball is quickly becoming one of the most popular sports among seniors. Senior pickleball leagues are popping up all over the country. Pickleball is a more accessible and slower alternative to tennis, but it offers all the same health benefits.
Archery
Archery is a great, slow-paced sport that is easy to learn and allows participants to spend time outdoors. Archery involves muscle work, walking, and careful focus. Best of all, there is no need for a league or even another person to play with, as archery can be practiced alone at any time.
Bowling
Bowling has long been popular in senior communities. It is a fun way to spend an afternoon with friends and family while also getting some exercise. It’s easy to jump in on a game and start having fun.
Positive Impact of Sports on Seniors
Sports offer endless health benefits, both mental and physical.
Physical Health
Sports is an easy and fun way for seniors to stay active and prevent diseases from a sedentary lifestyle. Participating in sports is one of the best forms of exercise for seniors because it combines mental stimulation, physical activity, and social interaction.
Staying active helps prevent a number of chronic diseases, prevents stiffness and muscle weakness, and allows seniors to live longer lives.
Mental Health
Partaking in sports has not only physical health benefits but mental health benefits as well. Studies have shown a number of mental health benefits of participating in sports, including:
- Improved mood
- Higher confidence
- Reduced stress
- Reduced fatigue
- Reduced anxiety
- Reduced depression
There is even a growing body of evidence showing that physical activity may play a part in delaying the development of cognitive diseases, including dementia.
Social Interaction
Social interaction is so important in the later years of life. Loneliness is a common problem among seniors, and feelings of loneliness and isolation can negatively impact physical and mental health.
Sports offer a natural way to interact with peers and get the social interaction needed to lead a healthy lifestyle.
Getting Active as a Senior
No matter their physical abilities, there is a sport that can cater to all seniors. Whether playing in a golf league, joining an archery club, or simply walking with a friend, playing sports is one of the best exercises for seniors.
