Some people dread it, fearing they’ll never be able to fill their newly-found free time. Others dream of it and count down the years until they are finally free of daily work commitments. Whatever your feelings towards retirement, getting into healthy habits as you transition into older age is the way to support your longevity and health.
Here, retirement experts share their best tips on staying fit and focused in this new phase of life.
Get your feet measured and buy new walking shoes
Maintaining routines in retirement is key and walking is one of the best, low impact exercises you can do for all round health. “Introducing a daily walk into your newly gained time is a great way to establish some structure to your day,” says Dr Milica McDowell, a physiotherapist and author of the book Walk: Your Life Depends On It. “Set a walking time, similar to scheduling a meeting, whether you’re an early bird, a midday walker, or someone who prefers to walk after a meal, such as supper. Walking after a meal can be a great strategy for weight management and managing blood sugars, as it helps your body process sugars that are given off from meals.”
Many adults have been wearing the same size shoes throughout their working lives, but foot size can increase and decrease more than you might expect, according to McDowell. “Have a foot measurement in a proper shoe shop – it may surprise you that your current shoes might be off by a half to a full size,” she says. “I’d suggest investing in a fresh pair of walking shoes for your walks during retirement.”
