As we age, we might think we can’t participate in sports. In reality, sports can be safely played and enjoyed by all ages and abilities. There are actually plenty of benefits to participating in sports as you age. Sports can keep seniors physically active, and boost your health and wellbeing. 

Here are 5 of the best sports for seniors:

1. Golf. You don’t need to be a country club member to try golf! Your town may have a public golf course you can try. Golf is great for seniors because:

• Golf has many heart health benefits when you walk the course. 
• Swinging a golf club can help with mobility, hand-eye coordination, and strength.
• Golf is a social game where you can spend time with other people. 
• Golf is great for your brain health. It involves strategic thinking, like deciding which club to use and way to hit the ball. 
• Because golf is played outside, it’s a great way to get more vitamin D. Just remember to wear sunscreen! 

2. Tennis. Tennis is a racquet sport that you can play inside or outside. Many towns have public courts that you can use to play. Some of the benefits of tennis for seniors:

• Tennis is a social game that you can play with people of all levels. 
• Playing tennis helps maintain your strength and bone density. 
• Tennis games and drills are great for heart health. 
• Tennis helps improve your hand-eye coordination. 

3. Pickleball. Pickleball is another racquet sport that you can play inside or outside. It’s played on a smaller court than tennis, so there is less running involved. This makes it easier on your knees, which can benefit older adults. Other benefits of pickleball for seniors:

• It has social benefits, because you play in pairs for doubles or against another person for singles. 
• Pickleball can help with hand-eye coordination and balance, which can lower fall risk. 
• It’s a form of cardio exercise, which is important for heart health. Regular cardio exercise can help prevent stroke and heart attacks.

4. Bowling. One major benefit of bowling for seniors is that it’s an indoor sport. That means you can play year-round, and don’t have to worry about extreme heat or too-cold weather.  Other benefits of bowling for seniors: 

• Bowling helps you build strength to stay balanced. 
• It’s also a full-body workout, so it can boost blood circulation throughout your body.
• Bowling is a family-friendly sport that is great for all ages. This is a fun one to play with family or community members. 

5. Swimming. Many towns have public swimming pools, and there are often pools at gyms, retirement facilities, and other accessible places. Seniors can try swimming because: 

• Swimming has been found to lead to lower blood pressure, which can reduce the risk of heart and lung disease. 
• It can also help with mobility and flexibility to keep you moving comfortably.  
• Swimming keeps pressure off of your hips, knees and spine, so it’s a great choice for people with joint pain or arthritis.
• It can also help reduce stress and improve brain function.

Can sports benefit seniors who have never tried before?

Yes, sports can benefit seniors who have never tried before. It’s never too late to try something new. Learning a new sport with other beginners is a great way to meet new people and help keep your body healthy. 

How can seniors stay safe while playing sports?

Seniors can stay safe while playing sports by starting slowly and building up. Specific tips:

• Check in with your care team. If you have medical conditions, it’s best to chat with your health care team before you try a new sport. Your doctor may have specific advice to help you stay safe and healthy. 
• Warm up. Before playing, do some stretches or a short warm-up.
• • Check out Bold’s short flexibility classes to stretch it out.
• Stay hydrated. Bring a water bottle with you, and take plenty of breaks to sip water.
• Listen to your body. There’s no need to “push through” pain or discomfort. That’s how injuries happen! If something feels wrong, take a break and check in with your body.

Exercising with Bold is a great way to train for your favorite sports. Jump into your next class today!