Active Living Support for Young People

Young People

Children and young people

Importance of physical activity for teens and young people:

Reducing sedentary and behaviour and participating in physical activity and movement is essential for social emotional, intellectual and physical health including:

Reducing risk of chronic conditions
Strong muscles and bones
Better self-esteem and confidence
Strong cooperation and team work skills

Older People

Staying active as you age is one of the best things you can do to maintain your health, independence, and overall well-being. Regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and osteoporosis. It also supports mental health, with research showing that older adults who stay active have a 30% lower risk of depression.

Click here for physical activity ideas 60+ years

Finding Motivation

Not sure where to start?

Set goals: This may be increasing your step count, the number of days you move your body or the duration of being physically active
Create a routine: Forming a routine around exercise could help you to keep on track and make it easier to stick to your fitness plan
Exercise with someone: When choosing a buddy for this purpose, find somebody that has similar fitness goals and will motivate you.
Do an activity you enjoy: Exercise by doing something you enjoy. A sweaty gym session isn’t for everyone. The best exercise is what movement you will actually do.

Ways to stay active

Older adults should aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days. This doesn’t mean running marathons, everyday movement counts.

Walking

Solo or a group walk or simply taking the long way around the supermarket, walking is an easy way to stay active.

Strength and balance exercises

Strength and balance exercises focuses on building strength, stability, and coordination. They are essential for maintaining physical health and preventing falls. This includes chair yoga, Tai chi, Pilates, strength training ( dumbells, exercise balls, resistance bands)

Water-based exercise

Swimming or aqua aerobics provide a great low-impact workout that’s easy on the joints. This includes aqua jogging, arm curls, flutter kicking, leg lifts and standing water pushups

Everyday movement

gardening, household chores, playing with children and grandchildren , dancing, taking stairs instead of the lift.

Where to Find Support & Activities

Local councils & community centres, offer free or low-cost exercise classes.
In Hume, have a look at Active Hume
In Whittlesea, have a look at the things to see and do, walking map and outdoor gyms
Heart Foundation walking groups
Community houses also often have activities perfect for older adults, or adults as they age. Find your local community house – Neighborhood Houses