#KeepMoving
As we get older, looking after our physical health, mental health and social wellbeing becomes even more important. Things such as playing with grandchildren, meeting up with friends and doing the weekly shop all tend to become a lot more difficult with age. Being active not only has great benefits for your health and fitness, but it helps you to stay energised, independent and in control of your life.
It's never too late to start, and any movement at all is good if it makes you feel warmer, breathe a little faster and makes your heart rate increase.
From strength and balance exercises that will help to keep you strong and steady on your feet, to just simply going for a walk and getting some fresh air in your lungs - it's really easy to Keep Moving more.
Ready to get moving? We’ve rounded up some resources to help you on your way.
From strength and balance to gentle chair based movements, there’s something for everyone and every range of ability:
Keeping Well at Home
A guide to help you stay healthy at home has been published by academics at The University of Manchester. The printed booklet is specifically designed for older people, many of whom have no access to the internet. Download the leaflet here.
Keep On Keep Up
This app, developed at The University of Manchester, will help you take control of your health and reduce the high risk of falls during and after Covid-19. Download it from the app store here.
Super Six - Exercises to improve your strength and balance
Six simple exercises that can help you stay steady and stronger for longer that can be done at home. You can view also view a series of home exercises to help you stay strong and steady: Take a look here and press play all.
Over Fifty Fitness
Rosemary retrained as a personal trainer at the age of 60 and runs physical activity sessions for older adults across Manchester. Join her on YouTube here.
Case Study
Deborah West, 61, from Wigan says that improving strength and balance is so important to her, as it affects all aspects of her life.
She now works as a volunteer for Be Well with Wigan Council, helping to inspire people to live heathier lifestyles.
"I have slight vertigo and some neuropathy in my feet so for me, it is so important to strengthen all muscle groups and develop coordination to prevent future falls and have a more fulfilling life, with less physical problems as I enter later years," Deborah said.
"I have worked as a volunteer for a number of years helping with chair-based exercises, and have seen first hand the benefits it brings.
"I regularly do yoga and pilates classes to improve my strength and balance, and this really helps both with confidence and physical tasks, both in the home and while out and about.
"Even as little as an hour a week gave improvement over a couple of months, and it covers all levels of ability. You don't need any expensive equipment. I used stairs and a seat cushion from the couch, but that's it."
"During lockdown, I found that I actually enjoyed walking! It’s easy to become a bit bored of the same routes around the local park, so I’ve joined a walking group called “Out on Sunday”. They advertise the walks on their website so you can see the details.
I’ve lost weight, found a group of friendly people and feel healthier all in one!"
Tony Openshaw, 66, Chorlton