How to keep fit and healthy OVER 50

It's simpler than you think if you know what to focus on, and the health benefits are amazing

- TANYA PEAREY

Love walking?

Great-just up your pace or walk uphill so you're breathless to get the cardio benefits.

Why exercise?

Don’t fancy exercising because the weather is much colder? You’re not alone. Nearly half of us (48%) quit all exercise in the winter, according to a recent survey*. It found that we spend 42% more time sedentary now than in the summer, and a staggering 882 hours on the sofa! And that’s bad news for our wellbeing.

‘Staying active improves both mental and physical health, while also reducing your risk of developing life-threatening illnesses or having a fall that results in injury,’ says consultant orthopaedic surgeon, Dr Carlos Cobiella**.

But you don’t need to clock up hours working out or splash out on a pricey gym membership to reap the health benefits. You just need to build a bit of activity into your day – chosen well and age appropriate, it will keep you fit and healthy.

And consider taking a daily vitamin D supplement. The Government recommends taking one through autumn and winter to top up any deficiencies. US research*** suggests high levels may also help make exercise easier by boosting cardio fitness.

Raise your heart rate

Getting your heart to beat faster trains your body to move oxygen and blood around your body more efficiently, improving your cardiovascular health, fighting disease, and leading to a longer and healthier life.