There are many opinions out there on the subject of health and wellness—it’s almost impossible to find a consensus from one expert to another on what a healthy lifestyle looks like. For every article or book written on how to lead an ideal lifestyle, it seems there’s at least three more contradicting it. 

Sifting through the abundance of content available can be both frustrating and confusing for anyone embarking on a wellness journey.

Despite the debates, there is one aspect of following a healthy lifestyle that everyone can agree on: daily physical activity is essential, especially for older adults.

We get it. We all know that daily dose of movement is important. Chances are, you’ve seen the studies, spoken to your doctors, and have even experienced the physical and mental benefits that result from daily physical activity for yourself.

But, sometimes, knowing and doing are two very separate things. We all know that we should make physical activity a priority, but none of that really matters when 30 minutes on the treadmill feels like a chore you’d rank slightly below cleaning the gutters. Alas, when it comes to crossing chores off your to-do list, at least you can get through cleaning the gutters knowing it’s a once-a-year undertaking. But is there a way to make your daily exercise routine less of a slog?

Take it one step at a time

Instead of going all in, some of United’s residents have found success by increasing activity gradually. “Starting slowly, with one-on-one sessions is a great way to help build confidence, maintain accountability, and introduce opportunities to increase activity at a pace that works for you,” says Tracy Roberts, registered kinesiologist with United Active Living. “If a resident is feeling insecure about joining a group session or working out in the fitness studio, we can support them in their suite. Even a 15-minute session a couple times a week does wonders and takes the pressure off someone who’s just starting out. We find one-on-one sessions go a long way to encourage residents to embrace physical activity, and leads to them wanting to move more as a result.”

Discover social connection

For many residents, however, daily group fitness classes are where it’s at. Residents come together to attend classes, drawn in not only for an invigorating start to their day, but using classes as a social hub to catch up with neighbours, and find out what’s happening in the community. With regular fitness challenges from our registered kinesiologists, those with a competitive streak may find themselves checking leader boards regularly too.And while connecting with others can be a great motivator, some residents, like Vim, have found a way to reconnect with themselves. “I look forward to yoga more than any other class because it’s so relaxing—I really love to feel a connection to my body through my breath, and I have noticed improvement in my flexibility.”

Enjoy a sensory experience

For some residents, it’s the journey, not the destination that compels them to keep moving. Jim, a retired geologist, can’t help but search for fossils while strolling around the community. “You can find fossils embedded in the sidewalk,” he says with a laugh, “there’s always something interesting to find if you look close enough.” Other residents love to stop and smell the flowers, so to speak: Carly Dunkle, United Minds Aide often joins residents on their adventures in nearby Fish Creek Provincial Park. “The walking club loves to observe how the park changes throughout the seasons. Seeing the flowers bloom, and watching all the wildlife makes each walk unique and interesting,” Carly says. “I really look forward to spending time with everyone and sharing in their joy while we explore.”

Have fun

Combining interests is a fantastic way to incorporate physical activity into your daily routine. And while exploring nature is an easy path to increasing your daily activity, you might find other hobbies can get you up on your feet as well. “I love line dancing because it’s fun,” says Peggy, “And learning the routines is a lot like a puzzle — we have to work together not only to learn the steps, but to space ourselves out so we don’t crash into each other!” She laughs, “You don’t realize how much you’ve moved around until afterwards, because we’re all laughing.”

United (in) Active Living

So, don’t feel too bad if the ol’ treadmill has been repurposed into a clothing rack — chances are, you can find your stride where you least expect it—through connection, support, and embracing your passions.Take a stroll into United Active Living, and discover all the ways wellness can take shape with active living, at its best! An extra perk? We’ll take care of cleaning the gutters…