Fitness is for everyone. Many studies have shown that individuals who exercise regularly during adolescence lead more active and mentally healthy lives as adults than those who do not exercise.
However, maintaining this lifestyle requires an individual approach that addresses each individual’s specific needs, interests, and physical abilities. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Spoorthi S, fitness expert at Cult, suggested five ways to promote fitness for teens and older –
1. Ready for adventure? (for teenagers)
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Outdoor activities like rock climbing, hiking, swimming or obstacle courses provide a sense of excitement and adventure. These activities challenge physical and mental abilities, give teens a break from traditional workouts, and make fitness fun and exploratory.
2. Focused Functional Fitness (for older adults)
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Functional exercises focus on improving strength, balance and coordination, preventing falls, and increasing independence for daily tasks. These programs are highly beneficial for older adults, as they target practical movements, helping them maintain autonomy in their daily lives. Additionally, these types of exercises can also work on enhancing joint health, which are essential for long-term mobility and stability.
3. Make it a game and challenge yourself (for both)
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Turning exercise into a game with challenges, leaderboards, and rewards can increase motivation. Apps and wearables that track progress and provide achievements make workouts more exciting, creating a sense of accomplishment and competition, which attracts young people. For adults, people at work can incorporate team workouts and team activities to keep activities exciting and motivating for everyone.
4. Fitness and socializing (for both)
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Group classes foster social interactions, making fitness more enjoyable. For teens, activities like dance-based classes or sports-themed workouts are attractive. Older adults benefit from low-impact classes like yoga or aqua aerobics, which improve mobility and provide social interaction while reducing isolation.
5. Tech and Fitness (for both)
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Fitness apps, virtual trainers, and online workout sessions are great for engaging both groups. Tech-savvy teens enjoy personalized and on-demand content. Additionally, older adults can benefit from virtual flexibility, ensuring they can stay active from the comfort of their homes, especially during harsh weather or mobility challenges.
By modifying and working around these patterns, fitness can become more engaging and enjoyable for teens and older, promoting lifelong health and well-being.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
