Choosing your activities

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Some people prefer activities that they can do in their own time such as walking, golf, cycling or swimming. Others find it easier to stay active when they belong to a local sport or recreation club. The key is to choose an activity you enjoy doing or would like to try that suits your lifestyle and interests.

Regular activity can substantially improve cardiovascular functioning. For healthy heart and lungs:

• go for a walk - alone, with a friend or with your dog
• go for a bike ride
• go for a swim
• mow the lawn
• do a water aerobics or gentle exercise to music class.

People of all ages can benefit from muscle strengthening activities. For stronger muscles and joint stability:

• do weight bearing (resistance) activities such as digging in the garden or carrying the groceries.
• try doing sit ups in your lounge room with bent knees.
• to do more advanced resistance exercise it is recommended you have instruction from a qualified trainer.

Regular physical activity will a lso prevent and/or postpone decreases in balance and coordination that can occur as people age. Actions that involve reaching, bending and turning can improve balance. Tai Chi is one type of activity which can improve your balance.

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