Weather-Proof Your Workout

As temperatures drop and the days get shorter, staying active can be challenging, especially for older adults. It’s hard to go outside for a walk when your sidewalks may be icy and dark. It may be tempting to hibernate for the colder months, but we aren’t bears! Maintaining an exercise routine during the winter months is necessary for physical health and mental well-being. Here are some safe and enjoyable ways for seniors to stay active, even when the weather isn’t cooperating.

1. Indoor fitness classes

Many community centers, gyms, and senior centers offer indoor classes specifically designed for older adults. These can range from yoga and tai chi to water aerobics and dance classes. These activities are not only great for keeping fit but also provide an opportunity to socialize with peers, which can be especially important during the isolating winter months.

2. Mall walking

Cliché? Maybe. Effective? Absolutely! Mall walking is a perfect winter activity as it provides a warm, safe, and flat environment to walk as much or as little as you want. Many malls open early to accommodate walkers, and some even provide organized walking programs. This can be a great way to stay active and meet other people who are also looking to keep moving during colder weather.

3. Home exercise routines

The COVID-19 pandemic did a lot to encourage at-home fitness. When it’s too cold or rainy to venture outside, it’s handy to have a set of exercises to do at home. Simple strength training with resistance bands or light weights, balance exercises, and stretching routines can all be done in the warmth of your living room. There are also many free online videos and DVDs designed for senior fitness to guide you through various workouts.

4. Indoor pools

Swimming is a fantastic low-impact exercise that works the entire body without putting stress on the joints. Many community centers and gyms have heated indoor pools which offer lap swimming, guided aqua aerobics classes, and even free swim times, all of which are excellent for staying active in winter. Some hotels are even offering day passes for locals to enjoy those aquatic amenities.

5. Volunteer opportunities

Volunteering can be a great way to stay active. Whether it’s helping out at a local food bank, assisting at community events, or participating in indoor environmental projects, staying engaged in volunteer work can keep you moving and add a significant sense of purpose and connection to your daily life.

6. Virtual reality (VR) fitness

For those who are tech-savvy, VR fitness programs can be an exciting way to engage in physical activity from the comfort of your home. Virtual reality technology offers various exercise games and virtual environments to explore, making fitness fun and interactive.

7. Winter sports

For those who are able, participating in winter sports like curling, cross-country skiing, or even indoor bowling can provide great physical exercise and a lot of fun. Always ensure to take all necessary precautions to avoid falls and injuries, such as using the right equipment and possibly having a buddy join in for support.

Winter need not be a time of inactivity for older adults. With these engaging indoor and outdoor activities, seniors can enjoy the colder months while staying fit and connected with others. Remember, it’s always a good idea to consult with a health care provider before starting any new exercise regimen, to ensure the activities are safe and appropriate for your health status.

In southern New Hampshire, there are many ways for seniors to stay active indoors, even if they can't go outside easily. Local community centers and senior centers often offer online classes like chair yoga, stretching, or light aerobics that help seniors keep moving without needing to leave home. Some caregivers also work with older adults to create simple exercise routines they can do at home, like walking around the house or doing gentle strength exercises with light weights or resistance bands. For seniors who are home-bound, there are also virtual exercise programs and phone calls with fitness coaches or caregivers who can guide them through activities. These caregivers help seniors stay not only physically active but also socially connected by setting up virtual meetings with friends or family, or even just checking in regularly to talk. By offering fun, easy ways to exercise and stay in touch, caregivers make sure seniors can stay healthy and happy, even indoors.