At Eden Health Retreat, we believe that getting fit isn’t just about the present—it’s an investment in your future self. Imagine being strong and agile enough to joyfully play with your grandkids or having enough strength and energy to travel and enjoy new sports and hobbies.
This article explores the simple changes you can make today to build resilience and ensure a vibrant future.
Embrace Functional Fitness
Functional fitness emphasises movements that mimic daily activities, ensuring your body is well-prepared for the demands of everyday life. By focusing on functional fitness, you’re strengthening your body to allow it to perform everyday tasks easily and safely, such as carrying your groceries, picking up small children, and being mobile on the floor. Instead of fixating on weight loss, focus on exercises that enhance your strength, flexibility, and balance. Squats, lunges, and core exercises, especially Pilates-based movements, are excellent ways to include functional fitness in your life.
Incorporate Playful Movements
Exercise doesn’t have to be a chore; it can (and should) be a playful and enjoyable part of your daily routine. Engage in activities that bring joy, whether it’s dancing, hiking, or playing recreational sports. Meet a friend for a morning walk and combine socialising with fitness. By incorporating play into your exercise regimen, you’re more likely to stick with it in the long run.
Stand On One Foot
Simple activities like standing on one foot while brushing your teeth might seem minor, but they contribute to improved balance and stability over time. These minor changes, when practiced consistently, can have a significant impact on your overall physical resilience, improve coordination, strengthen your core, and create new nerve connections in the brain.
Stimulate Your Mind
Exercise isn’t just about the body; it’s a powerful tool for the mind. Activities that challenge your cognitive abilities, such as crosswords, Wordle, or other brain games, can help maintain mental sharpness and cognitive function as you age. Why not challenge friends and family on a daily basis to add a little sociable competition to your daily mental exercises?
Lift Light Weights
Strength training doesn’t always mean lifting heavy weights. Lifting light weights with higher repetitions is an excellent way to build muscle endurance and joint flexibility. Incorporate resistance training into your routine, focusing on all major muscle groups.
Prioritise Flexibility
Maintaining flexibility is crucial for overall mobility. Include stretches such as yoga, tai chi, or gentle movements in your exercise routine to improve flexibility and reduce the risk of injury. A flexible body is better equipped to manage the physical demands of daily life.
Consistency is Key
The key to future-proofing your mind and body lies in consistency. Create a balanced and sustainable exercise routine that you genuinely enjoy. Regular, moderate exercise over the long term is more beneficial than sporadic intense workouts. Remember: any movement is better than none. Try to incorporate gentle stretches into your daily routine – such as standing on your leg while you’re waiting for the kettle to boil or stretching in front of your favourite TV show at night. These small routines can make a substantial difference to your long-term health.
