As we age, we will find it more difficult to do sports we enjoyed when we were young – no thanks to reduced flexibility, arthritis and stiff joints. In fact, injuries that recover very slowly, along with severe health conditions, may be the reasons you decided to stop playing a variety of sports. However, there are plenty of sports that can replace active sports for the elderly. Check out these sports for active retirement to help you stay healthy!
Sports that get you active, without the possibility of injuries, are relatively safe for you. Some elderly-safe sports to try are Nordic walking, shuffleboard, archery, cornhole, and croquet. Others include:
Yoga
The deep breathing of yoga, coupled with slow body movements, increases blood flow and warms up your muscles. Fun fact: yoga can also ease the signs of arthritis. Besides improving balance and flexibility, holding a pose builds strength, making yoga one of the safest and most effective sports for the elderly.
Swimming
Swimming is a highly popular workout that’s fun and effective – no matter your age. It is an excellent elderly-safe sport because it doesn’t add pressure to the joints. The sport reduces stress on your bones as the water carries your weight, simultaneously providing resistance to strengthen muscles. Furthermore, swimming makes the heart stronger! The activity strengthens flexibility and muscles that are usually neglected by other forms of workouts. Beyond the physical, swimming supports mental health and relieves stress too. Even walking in a pool is good exercise!
Cycling
Whether you’re going shopping or exploring town, cycling is a fun and purposeful workout! Opt for bicycles made particularly for older adults. You can try a one-speed bike if you’re looking into riding around a town such as Charleston, SC.
Table Tennis
A game of table tennis sharpens the reflexes and keeps your brain sharp. As a matter of fact, the sport is used to treat early-stage Alzheimer’s by activating various areas of the brain to stimulate awareness.
Rowing, Canoeing, and Kayaking
Racing activities offer a workout for every major muscle group. All three activities get rid of calories more than cycling or running, while strengthening your back, core, arms, and legs. These activities are often ideal for people who have suffered from knee injuries when they were much younger.
Badminton
If tennis seems too aggressive for you, bring out the badminton racquet and net! The sport helps to increase the heart rate and is excellent for overall body health. Badminton can also increase flexibility and strength!
Tai Chi
Tai Chi is a relaxing practice that can be done alone or with others. It increases flexibility, improves your concentration, and is not aggressive, hence regarded as one of the most enjoyed, non-competitive elderly-safe sports.
Tennis
Tennis is a workout that strengthens your legs and improves agility, balance, and coordination. However, it’s an intensive sport, so your skills have to grow and develop as you age. You may smash less aggressively or run more slowly, but tennis does an excellent job for your coordination, balance, flexibility, and heart.
