Lifetime Sports Keep You Moving

Lifetime sports are those you can play at any age. When you’re young, you’re old, and every age in between. They’re a way for you to keep your body moving in a fun way while choosing how hard core you want to be.

Some lifetime sports are solitary events, allowing you to use the time to think and contemplate. Others are group activities that provide an opportunity for camaraderie and competition. It’s up to you to decide what you enjoy and what you want to do.

Lifetime Sport #1: Water Sports

Water sports can be done by yourself or with others. Swimming is a great form of exercise, keeping your heart rate up while taking some of the stress of impact off your body. It helps tone muscles and build strength, and provides a full-body workout as you use almost all of your muscles.

Don’t want to go in the water? Consider canoeing or kayaking. These are low impact activities that can improve your aerobic fitness, strength, and flexibility. Looking for a bit more of a challenge? Try rowing. Rowing has become a popular sport for all ages and clubs have popped up nearly everywhere.

Lifetime Sport #2: Running and Walking

Running and walking can be done alone or as part of a club.

Studies show that running or walking can help prevent obesity, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and some kinds of cancer. And research done in 2013 reported those who walked or ran an average of 5 miles per day had a 41% lower risk of developing cataract and age-related vision loss. Running, however, is a high-impact exercise. This can have a negative impact on your legs and joints if you’re not careful. If you’re not sure, start easy or just stick with walking.

And yes, walking your dog counts! Your furry friend will love you for it!

Lifetime Sport #3: Racket Sports

Racket sports are a great way to get together with others. You can play with friends or join a league. And there are lots of different sports to choose from. Tennis, racket ball, squash, and the newest sensation, pickleball.

These sports have some muscles strengthening benefits for your arms and legs, and can help maintain a healthy body weight and reduce stress. They can also improve your coordination, balance and general mobility.

Lifetime Sport #4: Strengthening and Flexibility

Looking for something that is a bit more low key? Pilates and yoga are great options for improving strength and flexibility, while also promoting mental well-being.

Consistent yoga and Pilates practice improves your body’s posture. Good posture helps to prevent back pain, muscle aches and other pains. Pilates focuses on strengthening your core muscles which may help to protect against injuries such as falls.

These are just a few options for lifetime sports. Think about what you enjoy doing. Chances are, there’s a lifetime sport that fulfills that need while helping you maintain a healthy body.