Exercise for the over-50s isn’t about slowing down – it’s about being active in the right way for long term health!
The advice from the NHS says adults aged over 50 should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity, such as brisk walking (check out our Wellbeing Walks) or cycling, each week. This type of activity should make you breathe faster and feel warmer whilst still being able to talk.
Alternatively, aim for 75 minutes of vigorous activity, such as running or fast swimming. If you can, a mix of both is ideal.
Whatever you choose to do, there is some important advice about the types of exercise you should incorporate into your routine – namely strength training and balance and flexibility exercises.
Another thing to consider is avoiding long periods of inactivity such as sitting down for a long time. Even just standing up and walking around every now and then can make a difference.
Why does exercise matter as you get older?
Our top 5 fitness classes for the over-50s
Here at Active Blackpool, we run over 200 classes each week for all ages and abilities, but the ones we consider ideal for people aged 50-plus are low-impact, supportive and beginner-friendly that will help with mobility and balance, cardiovascular health and maintain strength.
And perhaps, just as important, they provide social wellbeing where you can feel part of a community of like-minded people and make new friends.
Pilates, Tai Chi & Yoga
Aqua Aerobics
Aqua aerobics is all about cardiovascular fitness. It reduces stress on joints while still giving a full-body workout. We have two kinds of aqua aerobics classes – deep or shallow.
Deep – wearing an aqua belt to provide buoyancy, you’ll get a full body workout by working against the water without adding stress to your muscles and joints. It burns more calories than a shallow aqua class, keeping your core engaged throughout to increase your fitness and strengthen your muscles.
Shallow – this involves using the resistance of the water to tone your muscles as you work against it using a variety of upper and lower body exercises. Supporting your body with the water, use pool noodles and water weights to increase the intensity and really get your heart pumping in this fun enjoyable class.
We also have Hydrohex classes, an all-new aqua fitness class that transforms the pool into a virtual training studio, combining modern technology with the power of water-based workouts. Instead of a physical instructor, sessions are led by a virtual coach displayed on a large screen – allowing for more classes, more often, and for a wider range of fitness levels.
Aqua aerobics is best for arthritis, joint pain, beginners, or those returning to exercise.
Step to Health
These classes focus on building strength, improving cardiovascular fitness, and enhancing coordination by combining step movements, light resistance exercises, and controlled cardio intervals.
This low-impact activity is perfect for you if you are transitioning from a health referral scheme or if you are new to exercise.
Step to Health is best for easing into exercise and improving stamina.
BODYBALANCE (Les Mills Virtual)
Legs, Bums & Tums
These low-to-moderate intensity classes focus on toning the lower body through a range of body weight exercises targeting your core, glutes and legs.
The instructor will demonstrate modifications for all exercises so it’s suitable for everyone, but whatever your starting point you can shape up, build your general fitness and feel stronger.
Legs, Bums & Tums is best for strength, toning, and maintaining muscle mass.
Let’s not forget swimming…
Active Wellbeing Suites
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