Sports Seniors Should Try

Sports are many Americans' favorite pastimes. Whether watching your favorite teams on television with a loved one or joining friends for a friendly game, sports bring people together. But many seniors who grew up loving the physical activity of sports worry they can’t continue to enjoy the games as they age. While there are sports you’ll need to retire from (sorry, football fans), your age doesn’t have to keep you from all sports.

What Are The Benefits Of Sports For Seniors?

Participating in sports as you age is a great way to maintain your physical, mental, and social health. 

Sports are a physical activity that will naturally improve your physical health. Nearly every sport includes aspects of cardio, strength, mobility, and coordination. Many people enjoy sports as a physical activity because it’s a more fun and engaging way to hit fitness goals than a traditional solo fitness routine. Increased physical activity can also improve your mental well-being by reducing stress, improving mood, and increasing mental alertness. 

As an older adult, sports can also be an excellent social activity. Even in individual sports, participating in activities like cycling and swimming puts you in situations where you can connect with others dedicated to the sport. 

Sports Seniors Should Try

Are you looking for a new sport to try this summer? Consider one of these senior-friendly activities!

Pickleball

Pickleball is really popular right now. Pickleball is a fast-paced sport but very beginner-friendly. An official game of pickleball requires two or four players on an indoor or outdoor court. Each player has a paddle and takes turns hitting a hollow ball over a short net, similar to tennis or badminton. 

If you have a few friends ready to try pickleball, you can reserve a court at the Chipeta Golf Course. Chipeta also has equipment for rent.

Boxing

You may be familiar with boxing as the brutal physical combat sport, which fitness professionals don’t recommend for seniors. However, there is a non-contact cardio-focused boxing option that is perfect for seniors looking to build strength, endurance, and coordination. In cardio boxing, you’re using all the techniques of the traditional sport but practicing them on a heavy bag or mitts with an instructor. 

You can try adult fitness boxing at MARS in Grand Junction.

Swimming

Swimming is the perfect individual sport for seniors wanting to build their strength and endurance without putting too much strain on their joints. Swimming is a low-impact sport that allows you to work all body parts as you move from one end of the pool to another. Many seniors also find swimming to help with mobility and flexibility, as the water allows more fluid movements without strain. 

If you’re new to swimming or need a refresher, Mesa Fitness offers private swim lessons and group swim classes for all ages. 

Cycling 

Cycling is another wonderful solo sport that’s perfect for cardio and endurance. Like swimming, cycling is a low-impact sport, allowing you to work your body without putting unnecessary strain or pressure on your joints and muscles.

There are many amazing bike trails around Grand Junction for riders of all levels. And if you’re uncomfortable riding on a trail or in the streets, you can also ride a stationary ride at a cycling studio like Revolution Cycle. 

The Local Grand Junction Senior Center

Adults over the age of 50 can visit the Grand Junction Senior Center. In addition to socializing at events, they offer local seniors the opportunity to get together for card games, pool, bingo, karaoke, and dancing! 

Considerations Before Starting A Sport

There are many benefits to participating in sports as an older adult, but there are also a few considerations you’ll want to make before getting started to ensure your safety. 

• Is it safe for me? Always check with a doctor before starting a new sport or physical activity to ensure safety, especially if you’ve had recent surgeries or are on medication. 
• Is it new to me? It’s never too late to learn a new sport. But make sure you learn the basics from a trained coach, especially in sports like boxing that require a specific form.
• Is it in my budget? Sports can get expensive. Many sports require equipment or memberships to use courts or courses. Figure out what the sport may cost you every month to determine if it’s within your budget.

Working With Visiting Angels

Taking on a new sport is more fun with a friend. If you don’t have a loved one willing or able to join you on your fitness journey, the caregivers from Visiting Angels are happy to step in. Our caregivers love spending quality time with clients as they embark on new hobbies and activities to improve their physical and mental fitness. 

Contact our local Grand Junction office to learn more about how Visiting Angels can assist you on your fitness journey.