Staying Active Matters—No Matter Your Age
It’s easy to believe that exercise is only for the young and energetic. It is easier to ignore the need our body has for exercise. But research shows that regular physical activity is essential for maintaining health, independence, and quality of life as we age. From stronger bones and muscles to sharper minds and better moods, the rewards of staying active reach every corner of well-being.
Regular exercise delivers numerous benefits for older Australians, from a healthier heart and stronger body to improved mental well-being and social connections. As we age, staying active is one of the most valuable investments we can make in our quality of life. In Australia, a standout option for making exercise both enjoyable and accessible is parkrun, a nationwide network of free, community-led 5k events.
I ran my first parkrun in the UK on the 1st Jan 2012 as a new year resolution and haven’t looked back. My family now regularly runs parkrun when we are free on Saturday mornings. This has lead to parkruns in Townsville, Melbourne at Parkville, Kirkdale and Studley Park, Mornington Peninsula and Broome with more to come. I’m always excited to see the age range from the very young to the very old participating and encouraging each other on. No one comes last at parkrun as the volunteer trail walker ensure everyone finishes before them.
So what is parkrun?
Since launching on the Gold Coast in 2011, it has grown to over one million participants across more than 500 locations nationwide. Every Saturday morning, people of all ages gather at local parks for a free, timed 5k walk, jog, or run. There’s no time limit, no entry fee, and no pressure—just an emphasis on encouragement and personal achievement.
You don’t need to be an athlete to join in: whether you walk, jog, run, or volunteer, you’ll be welcomed into a positive and inclusive environment. There are over 525 parkrun events currently operating every weekend in Australia, chances are there’s one close to you. Events take place everywhere, from city parks to coastal paths and country towns.
Top Benefits of Regular Exercise for Older Adults
- Boosts Heart Health: Just 30 minutes of moderate activity a day can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. Moving regularly strengthens your heart and improves circulation.
- Supports Mobility & Balance: Exercises that enhance flexibility and strength help prevent falls, a leading cause of injury in older adults. Activities like walking or gentle jogging improve coordination and stability.
- Fights Off Chronic Disease: Regular exercise helps control blood sugar, supports healthy joints, and can ease arthritis pain. It also lowers the risk of certain cancers and dementia.
- Enhances Mental Well-being: Being active releases endorphins, those feel-good hormones that can fight depression, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep quality.
- Social Connection: Exercising with others, whether in a group class or outdoor event, provides companionship, support, and motivation. Staying socially engaged protects against loneliness and has positive effects on mental health.
Overcoming the Common Barriers
It’s normal to feel hesitant about joining something new, but many Parkrun participants start by walking and slowly work up to jogging. Remember, the only person you’re competing with is yourself. Focusing on personal bests means the challenge is individual, not about beating others. Improvement comes at your own pace, and every step forward is a victory.
Take the First Step
As always advised, if you haven’t exercised in a while, it’s always wise to consult your doctor before beginning a new program, especially if you have existing health conditions. Start gently, choose comfortable shoes, and invite a friend or family member to join you.
Physical activity is the single most powerful step you can take to support your health as you age. Why not make this week the one where you try something new—perhaps at your local Parkrun? The benefits will quickly become clear, and you’ll wonder why you ever waited so long to start.
Take the First Step Towards Active Ageing
Joining a local parkrun is an easy, enjoyable way to work regular activity into your life, whatever your current fitness level. With supportive communities, breathtaking Australian locations, and a simple process to get started, there’s never been a better time for older Australians to rediscover the benefits of regular exercise.
https://www.parkrun.com.au/
