Health and fitness are major concerns for most older people, usually because they have spent decades ignoring those issues. If that includes YOU, at what age did you decide that your fitness level was not a priority? Fortunately, in most cases it is not too late yet – you can begin to regain your health and fitness at any age!

From treadmills to exercise machines to free weight areas, more and more people over 60 are regularly going to gyms and exercising regularly. Most marathons these days have athletes 60 and older join them, and even more seniors participate in half marathons. And golf courses, tennis courts, and squash courts are often populated by seniors, both for their enjoyment and to help them get and stay fit.

But if your fitness isn’t up to scratch for extreme senior sports, the good news is that you can get started much simpler. Health and fitness require adequate exercise, nutrition, and sufficient rest to fully recover. But older people don’t need to make major changes to improve their lives – even small changes add up over time.

What is your current activity level? If most of your exercise involves walking from your couch to the bathroom, taking a walk around the block every day would be a good start. If mobility is not an issue for you, how long has it been since you have ridden your bike regularly? If mobility is an issue, think about modest exercises instead – there are plenty of bodyweight exercises and stretches you can do at home without lifting weights.

Or maybe simple, non-impact exercises like yoga or tai chi would suit you better. Almost any older person can perform each one at a very basic level, and can increase their level as their body adjusts. You don’t even need to join a class for either – there are plenty of online videos or DVDs available that you can follow at home. Again, you don’t need any equipment to get started …

Does your community have recreation centers? If they have a pool there, you can easily enjoy yourself while working on your fitness level, and many have pool exercise classes for seniors as well. Any nervousness you feel about starting to exercise in front of others is likely to quickly fade as you experience the social benefits of exercising with other seniors in your local community. Socializing with a group of like-minded peers your age will also help you stand your ground and increase your sense of accomplishment as you go along.

And remember, when you are physically ready, the gym will always be there to welcome you! If you want to start lifting weights at home, it’s as easy as starting with a pair of dumbbells purchased from your local sports store or department store. If you’re feeling more adventurous, talk to the manager of any local gym; More and more personal trainers are getting special training to work with older people (thanks to the huge baby boom demographics), and it will certainly get you started. the right way if you hire one for at least your first gym sessions. When lifting weights, it’s best to start with shorter, lighter workouts and progress from there – you’ll be asking your body to move and stretch in unfamiliar ways, so don’t overdo it in the early stages.

As you can see, fitness for seniors can take many paths, all of which can be easily started and developed with just a little initial effort. Get back to your health today for a longer, happier life – the benefits for YOU are countless!