As people grow, it’s essential to understand that many body parts lose their functionality, and the mind gets into a repetitive cycle where nothing seems exciting anymore. Seniors need to stay active to have a better quality of life and avoid any stiffness that could evolve into other issues. These five low-impact sports can benefit seniors and provide the activity they need.
Low-Intensity Swimming
Seniors can benefit from low-intensity swimming to have a stronger body. Water is a great element that challenges the body with resistance and adjusts to the level of expertise and needs.
Swimming is gentle with joints, increases bone density, and reduces the chances of a heart attack. There are many different activities in water, such as doing pool laps, aqua aerobics, walking, and even weightlifting inside a pool.
Beginner’s Golf
This sport is one of the most popular in the senior community because it doesn’t require too much physical activity, you can drive around in karts, and you can socialize while practicing. Golf improves posture, back flexibility, and balance, and it’s necessary to achieve a certain level of strength to play the game.
Outdoor Cycling
Most people learn how to ride a bike at a young age, and it’s true when they say, “Once you learn, you never forget.” Riding a bike is an excellent way to exercise and enjoy the outdoors. There are many benefits that come with riding as you age. Plus, with e-bikes, this activity is turning into a lifestyle that allows for more distance, less stress, and healthier living.
Competitive Cornhole
This sport is trendy in the Midwest, and while it may look simple, it’s a competitive sport that requires a lot of technique and practice. This is a low-impact sport ideal for seniors where they get to work as a team to throw bags into a hole in a wooden board. This sport allows you to increase your strength, mobility, and critical thinking skills.
Hot Yoga
Yoga is an excellent way to gain flexibility and strength slowly but steadily. Most seniors have posture issues because they lack flexibility, and with time, joints and muscles become stiff and harder to work with. This activity isn’t a sport, but it gives the base and foundation that any sport needs. A flexible body reflects a flexible mind, resulting in a healthier and happier life.
