Keeping fit into your 60s is something to aim for. Even if you do not have a habit of exercising regularly, it’s never too late to start. When you are looking to start running in your 60s, it’s always a good idea to start out slow before increasing the intensity and frequency of your workouts. Read on for some of the best practices to follow when looking to start running in your golden years!
Get Proper Running Shoes
Instead of attempting to run in your sneakers or even worse, slippers, invest in a pair of proper running shoes. This will provide your feet with the cushion they need and prevent blisters from developing. Remember, this is an initial investment that will go a long way!
Enroll a Friend
Do you fear that you will start to lose track of your goal or lose motivation as you go along? If so, getting a friend to join you can make all the difference. Not only can you keep each other motivated, but you can also turn running into a fun social activity that you look forward to instead of dreading. If there are running groups where you live, you may wish to join one, too!
Plan Your Route
Depending on the amenities in your neighborhood, you may need to take some time to plan a route that’s conducive for running. For instance, you may wish to run on even ground instead of running uphill or downhill. Always let someone know where you are running and bring along a mobile phone if you are concerned about safety. There are many apps you can download on your phone that allow you to track how far you have run and keep track of your goals.
Try the Walking/Running Strategy
Don’t feel up to running, or are unsure how long you can keep it up? Why not try the walking/running strategy, where you walk for 5 minutes, then run for 3 minutes? This will ensure that you won’t tire yourself out too soon, enabling you to keep it up for 30 minutes or more. At the end of the cycle, cool down with a 5-minute walk. As you progress and get fitter, you can eventually amp this up into a full run!
Follow a Running Program
If you have no idea where to get started, you can follow a running program that has been specially designed with older adults in mind. A quick YouTube search will reveal lots of programs to choose from. One such program is the Coach to 5K program (C25K), which can get you running up to 9 kilometers in just 5 weeks!
Keep Fit and Active at Rittenhouse Village At Muhlenberg
Feel unmotivated to start keeping fit while aging in place? When you make the move to Rittenhouse Village At Muhlenberg, you will find a comprehensive series of health & fitness programs that caters to your needs. With a wide range of onsite amenities available onsite, our residents are well-positioned to take advantage of everything retirement life has to offer!
