Learn about six exercise habits for longevity experts swear by for a longer, healthier life.
Plus, how to incorporate them into your routine.
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Here are the physical activities longevity pros partake in that may just inspire you, too.
occupational therapist with theNational Council on Aging
Sometimes I alsostretch my legsif I have been sitting too long and feel stiff.
I will doyoga exercisesor stretches for my knees and hips.
Longevity experts also practice flexibility through exercises that encourage amind-body connection.
This can help lessen the risk of falls, which are a common cause of injury among older adults.
I makephysical activity a social eventas much as I can, Dr. Zlatar says.
So, I go on a daily walk with a friend rather than by myself.
This helps us keep each other accountable and motivated.
Of critical importance is social connectedness and maintaining strong relationships with family and friends, Cameron says.
This is key to healthy aging and longevity.
occupational therapist with theNational Council on Aging
Of critical importance is social connectedness and maintaining strong relationships with family and friends.
This is key to healthy aging and longevity.
Kathleen Cameron, BSPharm, MPH
3.
As we age, we naturally lose muscle and bone strength, but strength training can help avoid this.
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This doesnt mean you have to become a pro bench presser.
I remind myself that this not only helps my body to stay healthy, but also my brain.
Longevity experts also have a go at target different muscle groups as they incorporate weight training.
Also engage your core with asymmetric cable or dumbbell exercises.
They garden and mow their lawn
Another pervasive habit of our longevity experts: tending to their plants outdoors.
I garden two to three times per week, which includes walking around my yard, Cameron says.
Watering plants, picking weeds, and bending over are excellent natural exercises.
Mowing your lawn also counts, even if it feels like a chore list item to check off.
This connection with nature not only boosts physical health, but also enhances mental well-being.
Ronald A. Primas, MD
6.
They jump rope (yes, really!)
Exercises to boost your lifespan can also be fun and pump up your heart rate.
Longevity experts make working out more interesting with activities they enjoy.
Plus, its great for improving coordination.
How can you incorporate exercise habits for healthy aging into your life?
Its a common misconception that habits for longevity have to be expensive, complicated, or involve big goals.
However, not only is that approach unnecessary, but its unsustainable.
Plus, dont buy into the hype of pricey longevity supplements or treatments.
In reality, many effective habitslike walking, stretching, andbalance exercisesare low-cost or free.
(FYI: This is calledhabit stacking.)
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