8 Ways to Be More Active in Retirement

Who doesn't dream of being free to follow their passions without worrying about getting up in the morning to go to a job? Retirement gives you that freedom. These days, people are living longer, and staying active during their golden years - and that's a good thing. Gone are the days of retiring to a rocking chair. Staying physically and mentally active has other benefits as well. It reduces the risk of age-related health problems such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer's disease. Fortunately, there are lots of opportunities to challenge your body and mind during retirement. Here are eight tips for staying active after you retire.

Pick Up a Sport

It's never too late to pick up a sport. Keep your muscles and bones strong by weight training at the gym or joining an exercise class. Health clubs are good places to hang out with physically fit people who can motivate you to stay in shape. Take a dip in the pool or sign up for a yoga or tai chi class. If you feel more competitive, pick up a sport like golf, bowling, or racquetball. There are even retirees who take up marathoning.

Start an Active Hobby

Find a new hobby that involves physical activity to keep stimulated both mentally and physically. Sign up for a photography class and take photos on long nature walks. Take ballroom dancing classes or join a square dancing group. Participating in activities you enjoy keeps your mind active and wards off boredom. Don't be afraid to try something new.

Learn a New Language

Learning a new language keeps your brain active. Studies show that speaking more than one language can even delay the onset of Alzheimer's disease. Learning a second language also stimulates the development of new nerve connections in your brain and keeps your memory sharp.

Travel to Exotic Places

Make a list of places you've always wanted to go and make plans to visit one of these places each year. Choose travel spots that will keep you moving. Visit the beach where you can swim in the ocean and take long walks along the shoreline. Go on a spa vacation or fitness retreat where you can hike and attend exercise classes. When you visit new areas, sign up for the walking tour and learn the history of the area.

Hang Out with Active People

Make friends with people who are active and plan outings with them. How about a date to play miniature golf, a bowling match or a game of croquet in someone's backyard? Hanging around with active people encourages you to stay fit to "keep up."

Volunteer

Choose a cause you're passionate about and volunteer your services. Volunteer to walk the dogs at your local humane society or sign up to walk for a cause. Volunteering will challenge your mind and keep you involved in the community, all while helping others.

Plan Your Day

When you don't have the structure of a job, it's easy to sleep late and lay around the house if you don't plan ahead. Set goals for yourself and schedule activities a day or a week ahead of time so you have something planned every day.

Mind Your Health

You'll feel more like being active if you eat a healthy diet see your doctor regularly to ward off health problems before they start. Stay healthy and active and you'll have lots of years to pursue your passions.

References:

Cortex, 2011; DOI: 10.1016/j.cortex.2011.04.009.

Harvard School of Public Health. "The Benefits of Physical Activity"