here are the best sports to do in winter to stay healthy (indoor sports)

Winter is a slightly more difficult time to maintain regular physical activity. However, after the age of sixty, it is essential to remain active to maintain a good level of muscle mass, avoid joint pain and stay in good cardiovascular health. Having a regular sporting activity also has a significant impact on mental health and social isolation, which particularly affects this segment of the population.

So, there’s no question of remaining inactive this winter! To stay in shape and exercise without being confronted with the cold, the ideal is to practice an indoor sport. Céciliane, a sports coach interviewed by the Decathlon brand, reveals what, according to her, are the best activities for seniors. Discover his advice.

Sport after 65: the best indoor sports to do this winter to stay healthy longer

• The Pilates : this method, which is based on slow and controlled execution of movements, is ideal for strengthening deep muscles, improving posture and toning your figure: “This technique, accessible to all, tones the muscles of the stomach and back for better general body posture and better balance. It is through core and stretching postures that you become or regain awareness of certain muscles that are sometimes well hidden”.
• Yoga : ideal for developing your physical and mental well-being, yoga is a very gentle discipline that strengthens the muscles without weakening the joints. It also helps improve flexibility and balance: “Physical postures, breathing and meditation practices, this activity is ideal for seniors. With regular yoga practice, we observe a more flexible body with better mobility which helps combat a sedentary lifestyle, the primary cause of isolation.”

• Tai Chi Chuang : this Chinese martial art is ideal for improving flexibility, while strengthening the musculoskeletal system. “In addition to toning and softening the body, Tai Chi Chuang promotes coordination through the sequence of slow, fluid, concentrated and controlled movements. This discipline of the body and mind maintains memory and cognitive abilities. It also offers the possibility of freeing the mind and reducing stress.”
• Latin dance : Latin dances like salsa, rumba, cha cha cha or bachata are excellent ways to work on your cardio, coordination and memory. “Latin dance has the particularity of moving all the joints and in particular the pelvis, an area which must remain flexible and mobile because it contributes to the reduction of back pain. Couple dancing also has the merit of helping to reduce stress and create friendly bonds.”

Sports after 65: our tips for staying active in winter, increasing your energy expenditure and maintaining your muscle mass

To maintain regular physical activity without necessarily practicing a sport, integrate movement into your daily tasks. Walking is a great option: run errands on foot, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or enjoy short trips for a walk outdoors. If you have a pet, walk it regularly to combine pleasure and exercise. In the garden, activities like raking, planting or watering are perfect for getting active while enjoying nature.

Cleaning can also become a great way to stay active: vacuum, wash windows or clean surfaces by varying the movements to use different muscle groups. Don't forget to add dynamic pauses to your routine: a few stretches after sitting for a long time, knee raises while watching television or a few steps on the spot during a phone call. These simple tips allow you to stay active without strenuous effort, while improving your daily fitness and well-being.

Head of beauty/fitness/nutrition sections

After working for the Marie Claire and Prisma Media groups, Inès arrived at aufeminin in April 2022. Responsible for the beauty, fitness and nutrition sections, she likes to decipher the latest…