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Being active as you get older

A man doing exercises with a red ball at an exercise class

Our bodies were made to move

It's a myth that getting older means an end to being active. We can help you to keep moving, whatever your age.

We're always told being active is the secret ingredient to health and happiness, and it can help us reduce the risk of everything from cancer to heart disease. But for some of us, just walking up the stairs is hard.

However you're feeling right now, and whatever you're dealing with, we can help you get moving more so you'll feel better for longer. Learn the best way to keep your body moving using the links below.

Many people are having to spend more time at home than they normally would. This can make it harder to stay active. But we’ve put some exercises together that you can do at home.

Find out more

We Are Undefeatable

If you have a long-term condition, the way it affects you can change from one day to the next. That's why, when it comes to being active, the little victories are important. It doesn't matter whether it's something small, or just a little bit more of something you already do. It all makes a difference.

If you find exercise difficult, find out how to build up your activity levels so you can move more in a way that works for you.

Get moving

Not sure where to start?

The We Are Undefeatable campaign has put together a poster with lots of activities you can do in your own home that can help keep you fit and well.

Download your poster (PDF, 514 KB)

Or dive straight in...

Lots of local Age UKs run exercise classes – ranging from more sedate chair-based exercise to nostalgic ballroom dancing and heart-pounding Zumba! Enter your postcode to find your local Age UK, and see what they offer.

Find an exercise class near you

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If you still need convincing...

  1. Regular activity can lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, some cancers, depression and dementia.
  2. Moving more helps your thinking skills – like problem-solving, decision-making and remembering facts and words.
  3. Being active can lessen aches and pains, help you stay steady on your feet and boost your mood.

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More on this topic

Walking tips

Walking tips

When you find exercise difficult or aren't sure how to be more active, walking is a great activity.

Mohan with his family

We Are Undefeatable

Age UK has joined forces with other charities to help those with long-term health conditions get active.

For more information call the Age UK Advice Line on 0800 678 1602.
We’re open 8am to 7pm, every day of the year.

This content has been produced with the support of the Morrisons Foundation.

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