Aging I.Q. News

Aging IQ is a news aggregate designed to create a location for all of your senior news from holiday meal ideas to cutting edge research. The below article was originally posted on their website by the author below.

By: ckelly58 | February 24, 2022

It’s never too late to find a new hobby. Hobbies are great for passing the time, keeping in touch with friends, and relaxing.

But, hobbies can also be a great way of keeping fit. And, for those over 50, staying active and healthy should be a priority.

So, what hobbies are fun but healthy? Can the two co-exist? Keep reading to learn about seven healthy hobbies for over 50s.

Dancing

The term “dancing” can cover many different styles. There is a style to suit everyone from ballet to jazz, street dance to line dancing!

Dancing is a great hobby to have, thanks to the multiple benefits for your body. Not only is it a great stress reliever, but it also improves your cardiovascular health, joints, bones, balance, and coordination. Plus, dancing can greatly boost a person’s confidence. You might be self-conscious, to begin with, but you’ll be ready for the dancefloor after a few sessions!

Gardening

Another hobby that benefits your health is gardening. Many love the peace and comfort gardening brings, but its health benefits can’t be overlooked.

Gardening takes a lot of work. You have to dig up dirt, pull weeds, and repot plants. All of this builds up muscle, burns calories, and strengthens your heart. Also, you’ll be getting plenty of fresh air and vitamin D from being outside – just remember sun cream and a hat!

Swimming

Your joints might not be what they once were when you were younger. Because of this, you might not want a lot of pressure on your knees. This doesn’t mean you’re restricted to sitting down – you can always take a trip to the pool.

Swimming is a great hobby for people looking for low-impact exercise. Also, this doesn’t just limit you to doing lengths in a pool; you can go to aqua aerobic classes or even try a workout.

Walking

This hobby can be adjusted to suit everyone, regardless of their fitness levels. It’s a common pastime encouraged by medical professionals after bypass surgery as it eases the heart back into exercise. It’s easy to adjust walking routes to suit your needs.

Walking is a great hobby to develop if you have a dog. Most dogs need to be walked every day – some more than others – so including your furry friend in your pastime could increase your bond. It’s also a great activity to do with friends as you can catch up while you go.

Volunteering

As you get older, you might have more time on your hands. Maybe your kids have left home, and perhaps you’re retired, whatever it may be; if you’ve got some spare time, why not look into volunteering?

Depending on where you decide to volunteer, you could be on your feet a lot. It’ll be a productive way to spend your time while keeping your body and brain active.

Golf

Many people associate golf with relaxing – and they’d be right! But, they’re dismissing how much work is involved with the pastime.

Walking from hole to hole all adds up. You could finish your game and have walked miles! Plus, you’re working your arms, hips, and legs while out, so you’re getting a proper workout.

Learning a new skill

While working your body is vital for staying healthy, working your brain is also essential. Keeping your brain active is proven to delay dementia by up to five years.

There are many ways someone can keep their brain active. Learning new skills is an excellent way of challenging yourself while staying healthy. Look into local groups in your area and see what sparks interest. What about learning a new language? Pottery? Cooking? Open your mind to the possibilities!

Stay fit while having fun

Hobbies are important to achieve a healthy work-life balance. But who says hobbies can’t be healthy?

These seven pastimes are just the start of the world of possibilities. Gather with friends, discuss what you like, and make memories you won’t forget – all while staying fit.