I know what your thinking, how can there be a best way to stay active?  Well to answer your question your right; there is really no “best way.” However I would like to suggest that the best way to stay active is any activity that you can get health benefits from and maintain consistency.   What that means is if you don’t like a particular activity or you don’t see anyway you would stick with it, I suggest you find something else.  I feel a big reason why so many people struggle with staying active is we sometimes have a “square peg in a round hole” mentality where everyone has to do the same thing or follow the newest fitness craze.  Instead, I have listed 4 ways that we can not only accomplish our health goals but have fun along the way.

  1. Do something FUN- I know for some, it is almost impossible for them to equate exercising with fun but what about those that love to walk, garden or play sports. For many people they will never step into a gym because it isn’t something they enjoy or isn’t an environment that they feel comfortable in. Using gardening as an example it requires your body to lift, squat, twist along with many other physical movements. When done for the proper duration and intensity, many tasks or activities that we like to do can be turned into a workout.
  2. Don’t do it alone- Groups are great motivators, and one of the easiest ways to stay consistent with exercising is having accountability.  For most of us, there are times that we don’t feel like working out; and knowing that other people are expecting your presence can encourage you to not miss a workout.
  3. Get a Goal- Every year from spring through the fall in many cities, typically there are walks or runs for charity.  While the purpose of these events is to raise money for charity, they also provide great exercise goals.
  4. Make it a part of life- Many people are walkers and use it as their preferred method of getting from place to place. Riding a bicycle is a good way to exercise but many only view it as a form of transportation.  For those that have time constraints for fitting in exercise,  activities like walking and biking offer great ways to exercise while doing what you would normally do anyway.  By adding activities that fit in your everyday routines not only provides a good workout but can save you time that you time in the process.

 

About the Author: Eric Daw is an active aging specialist and the owner of Omni Fitt. Omni Fitt is dedicated to the wellbeing, health and quality of life of people aged 65 and over. Eric motivates and empowers the older adult population to take responsibility for their independence, health and fitness through motivating and positive coaching experiences.