With Memorial Day behind us, summer is unofficially here! That means longer days, warmer weather, vacations, backyard cookouts, and more opportunities to get outside and enjoy life.
It’s also a great reminder of why fitness matters so much after 50.
Being strong, flexible, and active is not just about looking good in summer clothes. It’s about maintaining the freedom and confidence to live life on your terms. It’s about having the energy to travel, explore, stay social, keep up with family, and continue doing the things that make life meaningful and enjoyable.
Maybe that means walking the beach without getting worn out.
Maybe it’s hiking on vacation, playing pickleball, riding bikes with friends, and carrying luggage through the airport
Maybe it’s gardening, kayaking, or tossing a football with your kids or grandkids.
When your body feels strong and capable, life opens up.
Summer is also the perfect time to shake up your routine and try something new. Let the warmer weather and long days encourage your curiosity and explore your surroundings – and how you respond to them.
Try hiking, swimming, tai chi, dancing.
Go walking on trails, biking, or join a softball team.
Look for movement that’s fun and easy to repeat, even if it’s just for a few weeks or months.
Sometimes a little jolt of novelty – and Vitamin D – can do wonders for your workout routine and enthusiasm. And just spending time in nature lowers stress levels.
It doesn’t have to replace what you’re doing! Remember, consistency is the top ingredient to long-term fitness success. And remember to focus on strength training throughout the year; muscle mass doesn’t go out of season; it only becomes more crucial as we mature.
So, start running again. Spend time in the sunshine with family and friends. Try a new activity. Move more outdoors.
Just remember to do it safely with sunscreen, sunglasses, plenty of water, and a hat when needed.
And keep nutrition top of mind always, with whole foods, fiber, and protein to keep you fueled.
It helps to do your outdoor activities early in the morning or in the evening to avoid the high heat of the day.
Talk to us about other ideas to stay fit and strong over summer.
We believe fitness should help you enjoy life outside the gym. That means enjoying life on your own terms with confidence. Summer is a great time to enjoy the benefits of the work you’re putting in now — so you can keep living actively, independently, and fully for years to come.
Holly Kouvo is a personal trainer, functional aging specialist, senior fitness specialist, brain health trainer, writer, and speaker.