I used to be a gym rat. I loved the gym. The loud pumping music, the energy, the sweat. It was awesome. Now that I’m over 60, I find it a tad less appealing. The music is annoying and the muscle men take up all the good equipment.
While I do still go the gym, I find myself working out at home or getting most of my exercise from the great outdoors. I want to share some awesome fitness hacks with you today so that you can still stay strong and healthy into your golden years.
Just because we’re getting older doesn’t mean we should stop exercising and taking care of our health. Quite the opposite. We need to be more aware of our body, minds and health at this stage in our life.
Remember, aging is a privilege denied to many. You can grow old gracefully and STRONG!! Age is just a number, right? So, let’s dive in.
Here are 11 fitness hacks to help you stay strong, healthy and fit 60 and beyond!
11 awesome fitness hacks to help you stay strong and fit
These are super simple fitness hacks that anyone can do. However, if you do have limited mobility, try doing some of the indoor activities or call a friend over or a pt to help you get moving. You can get healthier if you keep moving and pushing your body to try new things.
I just want to say that diet also plays a huge role in our health. If you are feeding your body garbage every day, well your body will perform poorly. So cliche but you are what you eat.
Pay attention to your eating habits and make changes where you need to.
You might really like this article: 15 Superfoods That Prevent Dementia and Keep Your Brain Sharp
Take a Hike
Who said you need a treadmill to get your cardio in? Instead, get those running shoes on, grab some suncreen, a hat and a water bottle, call a friend to join you (or not) and go for a hike!
I’m pretty sure there are hiking trails all over your town. Not only will you get in some cardio, and breathe some fresh air, you’ll also get to enjoy nature at its finest, no cars, no blaring horns, just the sounds of birds and wilderness.
Lovely!!
Dance It Out
Who says working out has to be boring? Blast your favorite music and dance like nobody’s watching! Dancing is a fun and effective way to get your heart rate up, burn calories, and tone your muscles.
Plus, you can do it anywhere – in the comfort of your own home or even at a party!
Walk or Bike Instead of Driving
Consider ditching your car for short trips if you live in a walkable or bike-friendly area. Not only is it better for the environment, but walking or biking can also be a great form of exercise.
Side bonus, you’ll save money on gas and get to enjoy some fresh air while getting your body moving.
Play Outdoor Sports
Gather your friends or family and head outside for a basketball, soccer, volleyball, pickleball or any other fun outdoor game. Not only will you have a blast, but you’ll also be getting in some cardio and using your muscles.
Outdoor sports are a great way to stay fit without going to the gym and also a great way to make new friends. Check Facebook groups in your area to see where all the seniors are hanging out to play outdoor games!
Can’t find any? Start your own! You can put up signs in grocery stores, community centers, your church or wherever.
Try Yoga or Pilates
Yoga and Pilates are excellent low-impact exercises that can help improve flexibility, balance, and strength. You can follow along with online videos, YouTube has tons, or join a local outdoor class. I follow Sara Beth on YouTube and she’s amazing.
Not only will you get a great workout, but you’ll also feel more relaxed and centered afterward.
I just started doing yoga with Sara Beth and am surprised at how much stronger my body feels. It’s awesome.
You might also really like this article: 15 Strength Exercises For Women Over 50
Clean Your House
Cleaning may not be the most exciting activity, but it will definitely burn many calories. Get up and do some dusting or sweeping. Put your whole body into it. Make that broom your b**ch!
Get moving!
Instead of hiring a cleaning service, grab your vacuum and mop and get to work. You’ll be getting a clean house and a workout at the same time.
Take the Stairs
While this seems like a no brainer, this fitness hack is a great workout for your legs and butt!!
Instead of riding the elevator or escalator, opt for taking the stairs whenever possible. This simple change can help increase your heart rate and make your core and legs so much stronger. Plus, it’s a convenient way to fit some exercise into your daily routine.
Embrace Gardening
Gardening is a whole lot more than just planting pretty flowers in the ground. Digging, planting, weeding, and watering not only make your yard beautiful but they also provide a whole-body workout.
It’s a fun and productive way to stay active, and the satisfaction of watching your plants thrive is a reward.
Do Bodyweight Exercises
You don’t always need fancy equipment to get a good workout. Bodyweight exercises, such as push-ups, squats, and lunges, can be done anywhere and effectively build strength and tone your muscles.
And you can do all these in the comforts of your own home, no equipment required. YouTube, again, has great workout videos.
You might really like this article: The Over 50 Bodyweight Workout
Join a Walking or Running Group
Find a local walking or running group in your community and join them for regular outdoor exercise. It’s a great way to meet new people, stay motivated, and explore your neighborhood.
Plus, you’ll get the added benefits of fresh air and Vitamin D from being outside.
Can’t find a group? Form your own!
Take a Bike Ride
When was the last time you used that bicycle that’s sitting in your garage or storage shed? Dust it off, put some air in the tires and take it for a spin.
Not only is it a great way to reduce your carbon footprint, but it’s also an excellent form of exercise. You can even plan out longer bike routes for a more intense workout.
final thoughts on fitness hacks
While you may not have the mobility to do all of these, you can certainly at least try a few. Fitness isn’t just for people under 40.
It’s so important to keep working towards staying healthy and strong, especially over 60. When you stop playing and moving is when you start growing old. Don’t stop!!
And as always, talk to your doctor before you start any kind of health or fitness regime or change your diet. He/she knows what’s best for you.
