Sir Rod Stewart is famous for his highly distinctive, raspy singing voice. He’s also an accomplished artist: according to Smooth Radio, he’s sold over 250 million records worldwide, and had 11 number one albums and 25 top ten singles in the UK. He was knighted in 2016.

Now the singer has set himself a new challenge. He’s announced that he’s aiming to break the world record for an 80-year-old sprinting 100 metres. With his current fastest time at 19 seconds, he has a way to go to shave off the five seconds he needs to break the 14-second record.

However, the singer has said it’s not necessarily about the record itself, but the drive to get there. The Independent reports him as saying the mission is to help him “stay in shape and feed my competitive appetite”.

An admirable sentiment. And if you’re thinking of taking up exercise for the first time later in life, or just feel like you need to add a bit more movement into your days, there are plenty of good reasons to do so.

Building a little exercise into your everyday life can quickly become routine

New research from Age UK has found that three-quarters of mid-lifers (classed as adults aged between 50 and 65) worry about staying healthy as they age, while two-thirds worry about losing their independence.

To encourage people to take up physical activity, Age UK has launched its “Act now, age better” campaign.

In fact, ambassador Helen Mirren is cited by the Independent as saying that it’s never too late to start doing something.

However, if you’re not currently very active, exercising can often conjure up unforgiving images of fierce gym equipment, or feel like simply something “else” you’re supposed to add into your day.

But for many people, exercise breeds exercise. It starts to become a habit and before long, you’ll find yourself looking forward to your daily movement.

Increasing your activity levels can boost your physical and mental wellbeing

Exercise really does play a big part in keeping us healthy and well. Age UK’s research has shown that:

  • Regular movement can cut dementia risk by 30%
  • Being active more than once a week can lower your risk of depression by 40%
  • Regular exercise can lower your cardiovascular risk by 35%
  • Staying active can reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes by 40%.

All good reasons to get started. The key is in finding something you enjoy. If you’re forcing yourself or feeling it’s a slog, you’re much less likely to stay invested.

NHS guidelines suggest that all adults should:

  • Do at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity a week, or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity
  • Reduce time spent sitting or lying down, or break up long periods of not moving with some activity.

If you’re over 65, the NHS recommends doing activities that improve strength, balance and flexibility. Meanwhile, under-65s should aim to work all major muscle groups.

3 ways to make your exercise regime doable, varied and interesting

1. Mix it up a little

Try including something different each day, so you’re working a range of muscles and are less likely to get bored.

Age UK’s leaflet has a suggestion for a week of workouts, including cycling, walking, stretching and playing outside with kids or grandkids.

2. Join a group

Joining a group gives you the added benefit of socialising and meeting up with like-minded people. Plus, you’ll be getting out into nature and fresh air, which can boost mental wellbeing.

You can find a walking group in your area through Ramblers, which offers walks of different lengths to suit all ages and abilities. Tai chi is also a great group activity, as it’s based on slow, steady movements and focuses on balance.

3. Try some alternative exercises

If you struggle to stand for long periods, there are plenty of seated exercises you can try, which can help to improve your flexibility and mobility. The NHS has some examples of what you can try safely at home.

You can also build a little extra movement into your day as part of your everyday activities. Try:

  • Taking the stairs wherever possible
  • Parking a little further away from your destination and walking the rest of the way
  • Dancing around while you’re doing the housework (it makes the chores much more fun, too!)
  • Getting out into the garden and enjoying some outdoor time as you potter.

And if you’re still wondering if you’ve left it too late in life – you absolutely haven’t! Thai athletics champion Sawang Janpram began competing at the age of 97 and is still fit and active at the age of 105.

Get in touch

While we can’t do your exercises for you, we can help you keep your finances in great shape.

Email hello@intelligentpensions.com or call 0800 077 8807.

Please note

This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.

All information is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change in the future.