2003

How can you make good on a New Year’s commitment to be more active this winter? You can get started now.

Begin where you are today to gradually increase your activity level, and gear activities to your ability. This is something you can do even if you’ve never been active before. Gradually build up to a total of 30 minutes or more of physical activity a day based on current recommendations. What to do when it’s stormy or cold outside? Pick indoor activities you enjoy:

• Walk the mall or an indoor track;
  
• Socialize by dancing (such as line, Latin, or polka); or
  
• Swim or take an indoor water aerobics class geared to people of your age and ability;

Call a local recreation center, gym, or senior center to ask about free or affordable classes, sports, and dancing for people of your age and ability.

Young and old alike can benefit from becoming more active. Even frail adults can prolong their independence and improve their quality of life by becoming more physically active.

To find out about the benefits of physical activity, how to increase your physical activity, or for specific types of exercise click on these resource links below:

Resource Links:

• USA on the Move (AoA Site)
  • Steps To Healthy Aging
    
• Aging Internet Information Notes: Exercise and Fitness (AoA Site)
  
• Exercise: Feeling Fit For Life (NIH - Off Site)
  
• MEDLine Plus - Exercise/Physical Fitness (Off Site)
  
• NIH - Exercise Video Now Available! (NIH - Off Site)