Staying active is one of the best things we can do for our bodies and minds as we get older. It helps us stay strong and healthy, enjoy new or existing hobbies, meet new people, or just feel healthier and happier day to day.
By making small changes to build more movement into everyday life, including strengthening and balance activities, we can stay independent and mobile for longer, reducing the risk of falls later on and the likelihood of developing long-term conditions.
It is never too late to start being more active and building more movement into everyday routines in a way that works for you.
Getting started
Knowing where to start can sometimes feel daunting, particularly if you have concerns about a long-term health condition.
Medical experts agree that the benefits of being active with a stable and controlled long-term condition far outweigh the risks. It is about being active in a way that works for you and your condition.
- Start slowly and build up gradually – any movement is better than none, and small changes in activity levels can add up to make a big difference.
- Listen to your body – it’s normal to feel some discomfort, especially if you’re moving in new ways or becoming more active after being less active for a while. Your muscles might ache a bit, and you may feel out of breath, but this usually gets easier with time.
Ideas for being active
If you’re just getting started, think about small changes you could add into your existing routine, such as:
- Getting up and stretching if you have been sitting for a while – during a TV ad break, for example
- Where practical, walking to collect prescriptions, or parking further from the shops
- Adding some simple balance exercises – such as standing on one leg – while waiting for the kettle to boil
- Carrying shopping bags
There are so many different ways of being active. From the comfort of your own home, to walking in your local park, playing with your grandchildren or joining an activity group, it’s about finding something you enjoy and that works for you.
Take a look at Think Active’s Moving Stories to read the inspiring stories from some of the people in our local communities.
Online resources
A campaign supporting people with long-term health conditions to be active in ways that work for them. Backed by 15 health charities and Sport England, it offers accessible resources like Five in Five mini-workouts, Make Your Move activity videos, and Move To Your Mood routines. The campaign encourages flexibility and shares real stories to inspire and motivate.
Developed by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, this initiative offers a range of strengthening exercises suitable for various abilities. The programme includes instructional videos that can be followed at home without the need for special equipment. These exercises are designed to help build strength and confidence.
BBC Sounds: 10 Today | Physical activity for older people
’10 Today’ is a daily 10-minute exercise programme on BBC Sounds designed to get older adults stretching and moving, promoting physical and mental wellbeing.
Getting active in Coventry, Solihull and Warwickshire
Click here to discover more about local spaces, places and ways to be active in your local area.
