We’re advancing our series on the Top Seven Retirement Activities—the critical habits and routines that contribute to a lively, purposeful, and balanced existence after leaving the workforce.
Up to now, we’ve explored:
If you haven’t seen any of these, make sure to revisit them to get caught up.
Now, we are ready to explore the final vital activity.
7. Supplementary Physical Activities to Exercising
Alright, perhaps this is excessive and not necessary (some might categorize this under “exercising” and leave it at that), but I felt it was important to highlight it for two main reasons:
Exercising by itself is insufficient. It’s fantastic, but most individuals require more movement in their daily lives.
There are countless advantages from these supplemental activities that warrant their own distinction in the list. Thus, I wanted to present it as an individual point to ensure it receives the recognition it merits.
The kinds of activities I’m referring to are physical endeavors that you enjoy as well—think of it as the offspring of exercising and enjoyment. Hahaha.
The Distinction Between This and Exercising
The most effective way I can differentiate these from exercising is by providing some examples.
Let’s start with weight lifting. It’s exercise. It’s not enjoyable. Alright, perhaps it is enjoyable for you masochists out there—but certainly it isn’t for me. When people used to inquire if I liked lifting weights, I would respond, “I despise it, but I appreciate the outcomes.” However, pickleball is enjoyable…and it counts as exercise. Hence, pickleball would fall into this category rather than the exercising group (or at least not exclusively in exercising).
Another example is cardio. Same scenario. I previously endured three days a week on the stair master. Now I endure seven days a week swimming laps. Neither activity is fun, yet both are indeed exercise. But heading to the pool in our community is enjoyable and serves as a positive physical activity that enhances my life.
Essentially, this activity simply encourages individuals to engage in movement doing something they love. They could focus solely on things in this category and consider them as #7 and #1, while certain elements in #1 can only fit into exercising. Perhaps that’s as clear as mud, and if this poses an issue for you, you have my blessing to bypass this activity—and only have six retirement activities to ponder. lol
Personally, I like to incorporate both in my life, and so I do. And since my writing reflects my personal experiences and what I ought to do as much as for anyone else, I’m including these as a distinct activity to contemplate.
Proposed Supplementary Physical Activities
For those of you still with me, are you seeking more suggestions for this activity? I have plenty!
Here are some suggestions I’d place in this category:
- Pickleball – An incredibly popular and social game that’s simple to learn and suitable for all fitness levels.
- Beach tennis – If you reside in The Villages, this is the next major trend (potentially after water volleyball).
- Bocce/shuffleboard — Aren’t these essentially the same games repackaged differently? Two gentle activities with a social aspect—beloved in numerous retirement communities.
- Cornhole – This is a rapidly rising “sport.” I have noticed it in diverse settings—from backyards to beside pickleball courts to bars.
- Dancing – Whether it’s ballroom, line dancing, Zumba, or just dancing in your living room—excellent cardio and a mood lifter.
- Hiking – Discover nature at your own pace, ranging from easy paths to picturesque mountain hikes. If you wish to achieve something rewarding while hiking, consider trail cleanups as part of your agenda.
- Walking Groups – Merge exercise with social time by walking alongside friends or a local group. Alternatively, walk solo and tune into a podcast.
- Golf – Provides light physical activity, social engagement, and time outdoors. It’s the dream retirement activity!
- Cycling – Ride alone or with a group for a fun, joint-friendly exercise.
- Gardening – Surprisingly physical, therapeutic, and rewarding—plus you reap flowers or vegetables! I personally favor flowers, but our children enjoy both.
- Tai Chi – A graceful, meditative movement style that enhances balance and alleviates stress. I have always been eager to try this.
- Yoga – Enhances flexibility and strength while