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Physical activity for older people

As we get older our bodies can lose muscle mass and bone density, which can go on to affect our strength, balance and posture. But one way to stay as fit and as healthy as possible is to move more.

Older people page

Benefits of moving more

It’s important to find something that works for you and your needs – there are plenty of everyday activities that can help you move more.

Being active can help to: 

  • Reduce your risk of heart attack, stroke, diabetes, some cancers and other conditions.

  • Strengthen your bones and muscles and improve your range of movement and joint mobility.

  • Improve your balance and reduce your risk of having a fall.

  • Improve your mood and increase energy levels.

Ways to get active

See all ways to get active
5I5 Preview
Downloads Getting started

Five in Five

Start building small amounts of activity into your day with Five in Five, a five minute mini-workout designed for people living with long term health conditions.

Download
Anne Dance
Videos Workout

Dance with Anne

Chair-based dance teacher Anne Little takes you through a really fun and energising dance session, broken down into 5 minute chunks with some really uplifting music.

Alex Energy
Videos Workout

Energy with Alex

Follow along from the comfort of your home as personal trainer Alex Orton guides you through mood-boosting moves to support your energy and stamina.

Sandra Balance
Videos Getting started

Balance with Sandra

Improve your balance and coordination with Sandra as she guides you through a series of full-body stretches to centre both your body and mind.

Alex Strength
Videos Workout

Strength with Alex

Getting stronger with a health condition doesn't doesn't have to mean using heavy dumbells. Join Personal Trainer Alex as he demonstrates simple moves to build your strength, with and without weights.

Our stories

Explore more stories
WAU Heraldo Support 1 RGB
Our stories Cancer Getting active at home

Heraldo’s story

Heraldo has found ways to stretch muscles he didn’t even know he had after his heart surgery.

ILA 1 RGB
Our stories Arthritis Dancing

Ila’s story

Ila and her daughters all manage a variety of health conditions, including a lung condition and osteoporosis – and they all lean on each other for support.

TOMMY 1 RGB
Our stories Dementia Getting active at home

Tommy’s story

Tommy has gotten creative with how he keeps moving around the home to help keep the “black dog” of dementia at bay.

Julie 2
Our stories Dementia Walking and running

Julie and Peter’s story

Peter supports Julie as she lives with Alzheimer’s, including getting both of them out to the park for a run.

Older people page
Our stories Diabetes Dancing

Zahoor’s story

After being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, Zahoor made a point of finding more ways to fit activity into his life.

Age Uk Short

Age UK

We’re Age UK and we’re here to make sure every older person feels included and valued. Whether it’s providing free information and advice, campaigning for older people’s rights, or tackling loneliness and isolation – we’ll be there. Your support makes it possible.

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