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Get Physical

Get Physical

Exercise is a great way to stay in shape and improve quality of life at all ages, especially later in life. Gentle exercises can improve balance and strengthen muscles without putting too much strain on the body, thus reducing the risk of falls and broken bones. An added bonus: Those who stay fit tend to have more energy.

Here are some physical activity ideas:

  • Wii bowling tournament.

    Wii bowling is a popular activity among older adults, and a great way to engage elders and young people in an intergenerational session of invigorating activity that promotes fitness and fosters intergenerational connections. Click here for guidance on how to host a Wii bowling tournament.

  • Miniature golf.

    Miniature golf is a wonderful form of light exercise and fun for people of all ages. For your Day of Play consider an outing to a local miniature golf course. Call ahead to see if there is a group rate or senior discount. To make this an intergenerational event ask the older adults to bring along a friend from another generation such as a child or grandchild.

  • Choreographed fitness.

    There are numerous options for fun group exercise activities for older adults. For your Day of Play you may want to arrange lessons in one or more of these exercises in movement:

    • Tai chi

      Tai chi is a group activity in which participants move slowly and gently in unison. Tai chi improves balance and strength.

    • Water aerobics

      Water aerobics is exactly what it sounds like. The gentle resistance of the water in a pool intensifies this low-impact aerobic workout. And exercising in a pool reduces the risk of injuries from falls.

    • Yoga

      Yoga uses stretching and breathing to relax the mind and body, and it's very good for circulation.

    • Dancing

      Dancing improves balance and coordination. Plus, it's a great creative outlet and way to meet new people.

Here are some physical activity ideas:



  • Wii Bowling Tournament

    Wii bowling is a popular activity among older adults, and a great way to engage elders and young people in an intergenerational session of invigorating activity that promotes fitness and fosters intergenerational connections. Click here for guidance on how to host a Wii bowling tournament.

  • Miniature Golf

    Miniature golf is a wonderful form of light exercise and fun for people of all ages. For your Day of Play consider an outing to a local miniature golf course. Call ahead to see if there is a group rate or senior discount. To make this an intergenerational event ask the older adults to bring along a friend from another generation such as a child or grandchild.


  • Choreographed fitness

    There are numerous options for fun group exercise activities for older adults. For your Day of Play you may want to arrange lessons in one or more of these exercises in movement:

    • Tai chi

      Tai chi is a group activity in which participants move slowly and gently in unison. Tai chi improves balance and strength.

    • Water aerobics

      Water aerobics is exactly what it sounds like. The gentle resistance of the water in a pool intensifies this low-impact aerobic workout. And exercising in a pool reduces the risk of injuries from falls.

    • Yoga

      Yoga uses stretching and breathing to relax the mind and body, and it's very good for circulation.

    • Dancing

      Dancing improves balance and coordination. Plus, it's a great creative outlet and way to meet new people.


  • For more information about the value of physical activity, please visit:

    Go4Life, an exercise and physical activity campaign from the National Institute on Aging at NIH at go4life.nia.nih.gov