Recreational Sports Fun
By Owen Walcher
Non-competitive sports and other recreational activities is a great way for the baby boomer to stay in shape. Whether you are simply playing catch with your children or grandchildren, or are involved in organized games, make sure you prepare yourself, so that nothing gets hurt.
The first thing to consider when attempting any physical activity is to warm up. Make sure you stretch those muscle and get everything moving the way it should be. There is nothing worse than straining or pulling a muscle, especially at our age, when things don't recover quite so fast.
Next, make sure you have the right gear for the game at hand. If you are out skating or in line blading with the kids, make sure to wear a helmet and some pads, for both your knees and elbows. LEss strenuous activities may not require pads, but always think safety first when it comes to any sport.
It amazes me how often I see parents or grandparents riding bikes with the children, where the children are wearing helmets, but the adults are not. Not only is this dangerous to your heads, but what kind of example are you setting for these youngsters?
Even if you don't have a family, there are plenty of ways to become involved in recreational sports. Joining the local club or YMCA is a great way to get active, and also helps you get out an meet new people. This can lead to physical stimulation while on the court, and mental stimulation off of it. Whether it is swimming, basketball, weight lifting, racquetball, pilates, jazercise, yoga or just plain aerobics, the YMCS is a great place to go for fun and exercise.
Maybe your idea of fun and exercise revolves around outdoor activities. Even in cold weather, we have things like skiing, sledding, ice skating and snow boarding to keep us busy, and in the summer, there is hiking, fishing, boating, and sailing to keep up agile. Outdoor activities can be just as fun and stimulating as indoor activities.
Can't keep up the pace, but still want to be involved? There are plenty of local city, county and other organizations looking for folks who are willing to give their time and energy as a coach for the local kids. If you have a knack for soccer, football, basketball or baseball, there is always a spot for you to help out others, while helping out yourself.
Come on out and let's play!
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