Staying physically active well into our 80s isn’t just luck—it’s often the result of a lifestyle filled with healthy habits.
You see, the difference between those who are still hitting the gym at 80 and those who aren’t often boils down to choices made daily.
People who maintain an active lifestyle in their later years typically follow certain habits consistently. And guess what? These habits aren’t reserved strictly for octogenarians.
Here are seven daily habits that those spry and active 80-somethings tend to follow—habits that you can incorporate into your own life, no matter your current age.
Let’s face it, consistency is key in most areas of life, and staying physically active is no exception.
Those who are still lacing up their running shoes or hitting the gym in their 80s aren’t doing so sporadically. They’ve made exercise a part of their daily routine.
In fact, research shows that having a regular exercise routine is one of the most effective ways to ensure that physical activity becomes a habit rather than a sporadic occurrence.
People who remain active into their later years don’t leave fitness to chance. They build it into their daily schedules just like they would any other important appointment.
So if you want to emulate their success and stay active well into your 80s, consider setting a routine and sticking to it.
But remember, it’s not about being rigid or inflexible. It’s about committing yourself and your health.
Remember how your Grandmother always had a glass of water by her side? There’s a good reason for that.
Staying well-hydrated is another habit of people who remain physically active into their 80s. And I’ve seen this firsthand with my Grandfather.
At 85, my Grandfather is one of the most active people I know. He still goes for his daily walks, tends to his garden, and even finds the energy to play with his grandkids!
But one thing I’ve noticed is that he always drinks plenty of water throughout the day. He keeps a water bottle handy at all times and never misses a chance to refill it.
He’s mentioned more than once that staying hydrated helps him feel energized and keeps his joints working smoothly. And science backs him up, as dehydration can lead to fatigue and joint pain.
If you’re aiming for lifelong physical activity, make sure you’re drinking enough water each day. It’s a simple habit, but it can have a huge impact on your overall health and vitality.
This might come as a surprise, but staying mentally present is a common trait among people who remain physically active in their 80s.
Mindfulness isn’t just about meditation or some New Age fad—it’s about truly living in the present moment.
And it has some serious benefits when it comes to maintaining an active lifestyle, especially as you age.
In fact, in my book “The Art of Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to Living in the Moment”, I discuss how being mindful can help you tune into your body’s needs, recognize when it’s time to rest, and when it’s time to push a bit harder.
It’s not uncommon for those in their 80s who are still hitting the gym or going for daily walks to have honed this sense of mindfulness. They listen to their bodies, understand their limits, and adjust their activities accordingly.
So, if you want to stay physically active into your later years, consider working on your mindfulness. Not only will it help you stay attuned to your physical needs, but it can also add a sense of peace and balance to your everyday life.
One thing that often gets overlooked when we talk about staying active is the importance of rest. Trust me, this was a hard lesson to learn.
People who stay active into their 80s know it’s not about going full throttle all the time. Rest is an integral part of maintaining long-term physical activity.
Intense workouts every day without ample rest can lead to burnout and injury. This is particularly true as we age and our bodies take longer to recover.
Those who have maintained their activity levels into their 80s have learned to balance their active days with periods of rest. This could be in the form of a day off from their usual workout routine, or incorporating activities like yoga or stretching that allow for recovery while still staying active.
Now, here’s something you might not expect. Those who stay active well into their 80s aren’t always about salads and smoothies.
You see, maintaining an active lifestyle doesn’t always mean foregoing life’s little pleasures. In fact, the opposite is often true.
People who have successfully maintained their physical activity into their 80s often allow themselves to enjoy their favorite treats from time to time. Whether it’s a slice of birthday cake or a glass of wine with dinner, they understand that a balanced life includes little indulgences.
The key here is moderation. These folks know that depriving themselves completely can lead to binge-eating or feeling miserable. And neither of those are conducive to maintaining a long-term active lifestyle.
While it might seem counter-intuitive, don’t be too hard on yourself. Enjoy your favorite treats from time to time and remember that an active lifestyle is about balance, not deprivation.
Have you ever noticed how being outside can instantly lift your spirits? Well, people who stay physically active into their 80s have definitely caught on to this.
These individuals often make a point of taking their physical activities outside whenever possible. This could mean going for a walk in the park, gardening, or even doing some stretches in their backyard.
The benefits of outdoor activity are numerous. Not only does it provide a change of scenery and a dose of fresh air, but research also suggests that being around nature can help reduce stress and improve mood.
Moreover, outdoor activities often don’t feel like exercise in the traditional sense, making it easier to incorporate them into daily routines.
Above all, people who stay physically active into their 80s have one thing in common—a positive mindset.
They view physical activity not as a chore, but as an integral part of living a vibrant, fulfilling life. They understand the importance of staying active for their health, but they also genuinely enjoy the activities they engage in.
A positive mindset can be a powerful motivator. It’s what gets you out of bed for that morning walk, or encourages you to choose the stairs over the elevator. It’s the belief that every step, no matter how small, is a step towards better health and longer life.
So if there’s one thing to take away from these sprightly octogenarians, it’s this: stay positive. View physical activity as an opportunity rather than an obligation, and you’ll be more likely to stick with it for the long haul.
As we delve into the secrets of those who stay physically active well into their 80s, one thing becomes clear—it’s not just about the physical.
It’s about embracing a mindset and a lifestyle that values health, balance, and personal satisfaction. It’s about understanding that staying active is not merely an obligation, but an opportunity to enjoy life fully.
In the midst of our busy lives, it becomes easy to lose sight of these simple truths. But as we strive for longevity and vitality, it’s worth taking a pause and reflecting on how our daily habits contribute to our overall wellbeing.
In my book “The Art of Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to Living in the Moment”, I delve deeper into how mindfulness can help us make this shift in perspective. It’s about learning to live in the moment and truly appreciating the beauty and benefits of staying active.
As we reflect on these habits of those who remain active into their 80s, let’s not just see them as a checklist, but as inspiration. Inspiration to embrace our journey towards health, happiness, and perhaps even a dash of adventure.
Because at the end of the day, staying active isn’t just about adding years to your life—it’s about adding life to your years.
The post People who stay physically active in their 80s often display these 7 daily habits appeared first on Small Business Bonfire.
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