Add Some Fun To Your Exercise Routine!
If you have taken a look at some of the other blog posts here, you may have seen some ways to exercise from the chair that may be a bit different. Although I like to focus on chair yoga in particular, I also love to find fun ways to exercise and to add some variety to the routine- and I really want those exercises to be accessible so that you can do them right from home if that is what you need. You may be interested in the following posts for some ways to exercise at home either without equipment or with some simple items you may already have:
5 Seated Exercises with a Towel
5 More Yoga Block Exercises- For The Lower Body
5 Seated Exercises Just For Fun
There are many reasons why we don’t add a regular exercise routine to our day. We may know all the great benefits and why we should be doing it, but realistically if we don’t enjoy it- we are not going to want to do it! You may be interested in this article: Make Fitness Fun: Could Novelty Be The Key Determinant For Exercise Consistency?
In the spirit of enjoying exercise, I thought it would be fun to take a look at some different ways to get in some activity that you may not have heard about- or just could use a bit more info on. These will not be for everyone, but it does help you get into the mindset of changing how you view exercise.
If we add some social component to it, some fun, or combine it with learning or some type of functional aspect- we can change our mindset about it. Remember it is about having an active lifestyle that you enjoy- not dreading your exercise routine.
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So let’s get right to it- take a look at 6 ways to add some activity to your routine with some resources for each one. You can explore more if anything interests you.
6 Fun Ways To Exercise
1. Walking Poles
These are a great way to up the intensity of a walk- it is also great for runners who have had to stop running for various reasons. They can also provide some support, as well as ease some joint impact. They can be a great addition to your daily walks -or as a way to increase the intensity with walking or hiking. Of course there are many on the market and you may find it overwhelming to choose. Take a look at these two articles on the topic if you are interested in learning more:
How to Use Trekking Poles and Why You Might Want To
Poles, Canes, Walking Sticks Help Boomers Stay Active – AARP Bulletin
There are many different types to choose from so be sure to research the right one for you based on your skills, any mobility restrictions you have (such as arthritis in the hands for example). If you are interested, the following resources can help get you started.
American Nordic Walking Association
2. Video Games
You may be wondering about this one, but there are many options available on this topic that go beyond what you may think of when you picture playing video games. You can even do them right from your seat if needed. The most popular on is of course the Nintendo Wii Sports. You can play tennis, golf, baseball and bowling.
Take a look at this resource if you are interested in learning more: Wii-based exercise programs for seniors – not your grandkids’ Nintendo
Take a look at this video for some more information and to see some of the games in action. Of course, you have to have a Nintendo Wii console to play these particular games and they are not necessarily inexpensive. There are also other options – here is a review of 4 Best Game Consoles For Seniors.
If this may be of interest to you, take a look at the resources above to help find the best option for you.
3. Geocaching
Here in one you may not have thought of. What exactly is geocaching? Well, it is basically finding hidden objects in specific locations. Kind of like a treasure hunt! It gets you outside, it can be a great way to get some activity, and you can do it with your family or a group. You can get some socialization here too, which is great for the brain.
If this sounds interesting but you are not sure where to start with this one, here is a link to give you more information: Using Geocaching to Promote Active Aging: Qualitative Study – PMC
Here is how you can get started: Guide To Geocaching
And how you can find one near you: Geocaching
4. Bird Watching
Let me know if you are an avid bird watcher! Bird watching has so many health benefits. Not only does it get you outside in nature, which has stress relieving benefits, but it gets you walking and enjoying new scenery. It is a great exercise for the brain. It takes you to new places- and you won’t even realize there is exercise going on. You also have an opportunity to learn about new things here, and that is an important part of healthy aging. If you think you may be interested, take a look at these articles. They have some resources to help you with getting started.
4 Reasons You Should Take Up Birding | Prevention
Birdwatching For Seniors: Benefits Of A Birding Hobby
You can also take a look in your area for nearby nature centers, local libraries, public gardens, museums, or organizations that may have some resources that can help you get started as well.
5. Disc Golf
If you have not heard of this game, it may seem a bit odd. Instead of golf balls, you throw a disc or frisbee into a basket or target. Believe it or not there may be a course near you that you didn’t even know about. Take a look at the resources below for some more information
What is Disc Golf? A Complete Beginner’s Guide
It’s High Flying in the Golden Years: Prime Time for Disc Golf | ISI
You can also try it out in your own backyard as there are portable games you can set up anywhere. You can modify this and do it seated as well. Here is one you can set up in the backyard: Portable Disc Golf .Or this version can be a good way to try it out or play with kids or grandchildren: Mini Disc Golf
6. Ball Drumming
Ball drumming is a great exercise that you may not have heard of. It is exactly what it sounds like and you can do it right from your chair. You get some great cardio and strength exercise here, plus you have fun, work on your coordination, and can listen to some great music here as well. If you happen to have an exercise ball somewhere around the house, put it in a laundry basket, and grab some drumsticks (or something similar). Here is an example of a ball drumming set: Cardio Drumming Set.
Here are two videos of ball drumming workouts to help you get the idea:
Drum Exercise Class (5 Minutes)
So there are 6 interesting ways to keep active- no matter what your age. You can modify all these activities to fit your needs. There are so many possibilities out there. Let me know what you think or if you have other ideas to add in the comments below!
Here are a few more ideas of more traditional exercises that you may already be familiar with but haven’t explored:
- Tai chi
- Dancing
- Water aerobics
- Pickleball
- Gardening
- Bowling
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Finally, you can check out The Peaceful Chair You Tube Channel for more chair yoga videos.
Namaste!
Disclaimer: The Peaceful Chair and thepeacefulchair.com highly recommends that you consult with your healthcare provider or physician regarding the applicability of any recommendations and follow all safety instructions before beginning any exercise program. There is always the possibility of physical injury with any exercise or exercise program. By engaging in this exercise or exercise program, you agree that you do so at your own risk, are voluntarily participating in these activities, and assume all risk of injury to yourself.
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