I take pride in my health and fitness as a personal trainer. I’m always looking for ways to improve my health and make my workouts more relevant to my stage. As a result, I’ve had to change my plans so many times. However, it keeps my body (and my mind) enjoying the workouts! So I completely understand why so many clients ask me, “What are the best exercises for over 50s”?

As our body ages, it needs different things than it did when we were 20 or even 30. You probably don’t look for the same experiences on a night out or qualities in a partner as you did when you were 25. So why would you wanna stick to the same health and fitness routine as then? Of course, you don’t! That’s why you’re here. It’s time to give your body what it needs now, in your 50s and beyond, with the best and most suitable health and fitness plan.

What are the best exercises for over 50?

Going through menopause puts a real strain on your body. For complete and balanced fitness that helps counter the effects of it, you need to cover all of the bases:

• Cardio
• Strength
• Flexibility

You don’t need to run a marathon to get in some cardio! 

30 minutes every other day is enough cardio to keep your heart healthy.  What’s more, you’ll be pleased to know that you should NOT be exhausted to achieve this.  Moderate levels of activity that build up some sweat but that you can still have a conversation during are the best way to do it.

Here’s what that means in practical terms.

How to stay fit in your 50s and beyond

• Crosstraining    Alternate the types of activity that you do each day (cardio and strength) to keep you engaged and looking forward to the workout. Boredom is not enticing! Think about what you enjoy doing and make it part of your routine.

• Plan some rest time    Your body needs time to adjust and adapt to your new routines. Whatever your workout plan, make sure you have some rest days in there to take it easy.
• Be consistent    Choose exercises that you will stick to. You won’t see results if you don’t follow through on your plans.

Ready to start exercising over 50?

Whether you’re new to exercise, have been at it for a while but haven’t yet committed, or are ready to take it to a new level with the best exercises for your body over 50, these are great options to meet your individual needs.

• Join a class. It might be an in-person class in the future or an online class right now. Either way, you’ll meet other women with similar goals to spur each other on. Plus, it can be super fun!
• Hire a trainer    This gives you 1-on-1 personal advice tailored to your needs. Again, most trainers, myself included, are now offering online coaching. It’s a great way to have some accountability, professional demonstrations, and routines.
• Join the Pursue Your Spark Blueprint.   My group course covers fitness routines and offers nutrition coaching, how to get started on intermittent fasting, and lifestyle strategies to help you stay on track to that fit, strong, lean body that you need.

Still not sure what exercises you should be doing? Then watch this video where I explain exactly why we need all 3 bases covered (cardio, strength, flexibility) for the ideal fitness package. Then check out my YouTube channel for tutorials and workouts as quickly as 3 minutes each to get started!