Active Ageing

As you get older you’re more likely to move less but keeping active is a great way to stay healthy.

Everyone in the world is living for longer – the number of people aged 60 or over is expected to pass the 20 million mark by 2030 according to the Office for National Statistics.

We know that as you get older, you’re more likely to move less.

Keeping active is a great way to stay healthy – but what we’re able to do changes from person to person. It change as we get older too. The most important thing is to find something that works for you. Older adults should do some type of physical activity every day.

Examples of light activity include:

getting up to make a cup of tea
moving around your home
walking at a slow pace
cleaning and dusting
vacuuming
making the bed
standing up

Examples of moderate intensity activities include:

walking for health
water aerobics
riding a bike
dance for fitness
pushing a lawn mower
hiking

Why strength is important

Strength and balance are key to ageing well. Prioritising these now helps maintain independence and can prevent falls later, as well as helping to reduce the likelihood of developing long-term conditions.

The strength in our joints and bones naturally changes when we get older, but regular movement can keep them strong and flexible. Simple everyday activities—like walking, gardening, stretching, or light strength movements can make a big difference to your overall energy, balance, and wellbeing.

You don’t need a gym or special equipment to get started, nor do you need that “perfect workout plan” to benefit from strength based activities. Starting small and increasing the amount of force you feel on your muscles as you feel more comfortable, can help you feel stronger and steadier over time. Any training like this is better than none at all, but remember to listen to your body, and build up slowly.

Everyone’s starting point is different. Whether you want to increase your strength or maintain it, choose activities that feel comfortable and enjoyable. If you’re new to physical activity, or have a health condition, start gently and go at your own pace.

Resources

Age UK – Being active as you get older

NHS Balance and flexibility exercises

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Move it or Lose it!

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NHS strength exercises

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We Are Undefeatable home exercises

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Discover sport and activity near you

From walking groups, seated yoga, football and wheelchair sports. There is something for everyone! Think of our activity finder a search engine for physical activity.

Use our activity finder