Let’s face it: we’re all getting older, but that doesn’t mean we have to feel older. You know the saying, “age is just a number”? It really rings true when you think about how much staying active can shape our sense of youth. One of the most exciting realizations I’ve had in recent years is that our bodies are incredibly adaptable, and as long as we keep moving in fun, dynamic ways, we can keep feeling youthful—no matter our age.
Rediscovering Fun Movement
Think back to when you were a kid. Did you spend your days running, climbing trees, hopping fences, and exploring every corner of your world? Movement back then wasn’t about exercise; it was about fun and discovery. And somewhere along the way, many of us lost that sense of play. But here’s the good news: you can get it back, and your body will thank you for it!
Over the last few years, I’ve started introducing new movements into my routine—movements that I used to do as a kid, and some I never tried until recently! Climbing, jumping, and even slacklining have become part of my daily life. At first, it felt awkward, but then my body started to remember. The more I climbed and jumped, the more agile and energetic I felt. It was as if my muscles were waking up to their natural potential. These activities didn’t just make me physically stronger; they gave me a sense of freedom and play that I hadn’t felt in years.
Why Movement Matters as We Age
As we get older, our bodies naturally change. But many of the aches and stiffness we associate with aging don’t come from age itself—they come from lack of movement. Our joints stiffen when they aren’t used, our muscles weaken when they aren’t challenged, and our coordination can fade if we stop exploring new ways to move.
When I started slacklining, for example, it wasn’t just about balance; it was about training my brain and body to work together in a way that felt brand new. I could feel the mental benefits just as much as the physical ones. Trying something new, something challenging, was a reminder that my body is capable of so much more than I often give it credit for. And it feels amazing!
How to Move Like You Did When You Were Younger
So how can you start moving like you did when you were younger? Here are some fun ideas to get you started:
Climb Something! Whether it's an indoor climbing wall or just scrambling over rocks at your local park, climbing is a great way to build strength and coordination. It’s also fantastic for improving your grip strength, which is crucial as we age.
Jump! Don’t be afraid to leap around. Jumping is excellent for bone density, heart health, and coordination. Try hopping onto curbs, jumping over puddles, or even revisiting a trampoline if you have access to one!
Balance! Try slacklining, walking on a curb, or just standing on one leg while brushing your teeth. Balance exercises engage your core, improve stability, and help prevent falls as we age.
Play! The key is to approach movement as something playful. Whether it’s dancing around your living room, kicking a football with friends, or playing tag with your kids (or grandkids!), have fun with it!
Movement is Medicine
Moving like you did when you were younger isn’t just about the physical benefits—though those are huge! It’s about feeling alive in your own body. It’s about regaining that sense of play and wonder that comes from trying new things and pushing your limits. Your body is designed to move, and when you challenge it in exciting, dynamic ways, it rewards you with vitality and energy.
So, next time you feel like you’re “too old” to try something new, remember: age is just a number, and movement is the key to feeling young at heart—and in body. Whether you start small or dive headfirst into a new activity, I promise you’ll feel the difference.
Get out there and start moving like the kid you still are on the inside! Your body will thank you for it.
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