This topic is so important to the WalkingWomen team as we turn 60+ and as we see our 90 year old parents keeping active. Our role models!
As we age, maintaining an active lifestyle becomes more crucial than ever. We, of course, believe and promote the power of walking to foster connection, revitalisation, and adventure among women of all ages. There is growing evidence that regular physical activity, like walking, can significantly enhance the quality of life in older age.
If you haven’t watched this fascinating documentary please take a look. It’s about the places in the world where there are more people living to a hundred Live to 100 – the Blue Zones
Medical research states that walking is great for healthy aging. We know its vast benefits for cardiovascular health, bone density, flexibility, and mental well-being. Psychologically, walking provides a sense of freedom, reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety, and enhances cognitive function.
For those starting or continuing their fitness journey later in life, here are some simple exercises to complement your walking routine:
- Stretching to improve flexibility and reduce injury risk.
- Strength Training using light weights or resistance bands to maintain muscle mass and support joint health.
- Balance Exercises like Tai Chi or standing on one leg to reduce the risk of falls. Apparently its good to stand on one leg as you brush your teeth – keep practicing!
WalkingWomen also champions our own innovative Get Goat Fit program, a unique 8-week plan designed to empower women of all ages to enhance their fitness levels and prepare for more challenging treks. We share the importance of gradual, consistent preparation to ensure that every woman can confidently tackle our Goat 2 graded walks or something like the more challanging Camino Way. For more information and to get goating! on this transformative fitness journey, explore the Get Goat Fit plan here.
Oh and don’t forget our guide Anita’s You Tube videos where you can exercise along with her. More coming soon. Get Goat Fit with Anita
Women seeking inspiration and support for staying active into later life will find a wealth of resources and community in WalkingWomen. From tailored walking holidays that cater to varying fitness levels to the camaraderie of walking alongside peers, there is something profoundly empowering about taking each step together.
For further inspiration and guidance on embracing fitness at any age, consider exploring resources such as the UK National Institute on Aging’s Go4Life program, which offers exercise tips and motivational stories and is more specifically designed for older adults.
Walking into our older years doesn’t mean slowing down but rather embracing the journey with each step, supported by the strength of a community that believes in the transformative power of walking together.
