To coin the phrase from Moshe Feldenkrais, “Movement is Life” and as we age we should not move any less. Regular exercise improves health, boosts mood and increases quality of life. As we age we become more susceptible to illness and injury. Keeping regular exercise in your weekly routine has been shown to combat the ageing process, reducing the likelihood of illness and injury, aiding in weight loss and muscle gain. Adding in a variety of exercise isn’t difficult, though initially maybe harder – the body adapts at a quick rate leading to progress in strength and fitness. Structure is key in exercise – below are some points to follow.

Mix it up
Taking part in different kinds of training keeps your body guessing and improves different areas of fitness. Performing some aerobic training such as swimming or cycling, as well as some structured strength and balance training within a gym or class setting will give an all round workout for the body. This also prevents one getting bored following the same exercise program all the time.

Resistance strength training
Strength based training has been shown to have huge benefits as we grow older, improving and reducing the chance of developing arthritis, osteoporosis and diabetes. Having an increase in muscle improves one’s metabolic rate, leading to an increase in fat loss as well as improved daily function in moving around and performing daily activities. Resistance training can be tailored to any individual.

Exercise at home
If getting out to exercise can be a problem, simple exercise training can be performed from the home. Using a chair for squats or stairs for some simple step up exercises can be beneficial when performed correctly.

Simple equipment can also be bought – such as dumbbells or resistance bands – which allow for a wide range of strength and aerobic exercises to be performed from the comfort of one’s home. DVD exercise programs can also be followed from home, which cuts out the need to visit a gym or go for a walk or cycle if the weather is poor!

Exercise classes
Joining in with regular exercise classes has a great social element, and exercising with others has been shown to increase adherence to a program as well as improve results. A lot of sports centres and village halls host fitness classes such as aerobics or circuit training, which can again be tailored to most fitness levels and exercise preferences.

Personal training/GP referral
Before buying into an exercise program – especially those who suffer with any medical conditions – a trip to the GP is advised. A lot of personal trainers are qualified to specifically train with those who are older or suffer with medical conditions. Performing a structured exercise program can help with a lot of debilitating conditions such as heart disease, arthritis, diabetes and many more. Enquiring with a registered fitness professional can go a long way in improving fitness and quality of life overall. It only takes small steps to make a big difference to one’s health!