Midlife is full of changes. For bodies that don't move the same way, staying active can help keep us going strong through it. This is a list of my favorite ways to get my exercise, feel better, move better and have some fun too.
Yoga is my favorite thing for keeping me in the saddle. But it's also helpful for reducing pain and moving well even with RA. I always have a mat (or two) on hand. (Even my dog likes laying on one.)
Yoga Mats for Daily Yoga
Yoga blocks are great for making the poses fit my range of motion. They give me the freedom to modify my practice to suit what I can do that day.
Yoga Blocks
Yoga straps are another favorite way to get the most out of my practice. I don't use it every day, but I am always glad I have it when I need it.
Long & Short Yoga & Stretching Straps
I have a Fucare e-bike, and I absolutely love it! I bought the Libra with full suspension. We usually do 30 miles or more when we go. I'd never be able to do that on a regular bike. It's been so fun to reconnect with this childhood favorite! Good bat...
Fucare | Adult Electric Bicycles
Strength training has become a regular part of what I do to help keep my RA in check, plus it's pretty good for those of us “of a certain age. " I have a few different light weights that I can use to modify my workouts. From one pound to five pounds.
Dumbbells for Women
Wobble boards and balance boards are great for working on my balance. It's a nice switch from yoga.
Wobble Board
Comfortable shoes are a necessity. Choosing them is highly personal, but Hoka has a lot of options to explore. (How did I ever wear shoes with no support?)
Essentrics is another absolute favorite of mine. I love the variety of movements. Feels good too.
Essentrics Workout
When I first began exploring yoga, this is where I started with chair yoga. Sarah Starr is one of my favorites on YT with lots of videos to choose from.
Happy Chair Yoga
This is another of my favorite yoga channels on YT. She has some great standing videos for when you're ready to move on from seated yoga practice but not yet ready for a full flow.
Yoga with Uliana
I like having different sizes of these so I can choose my workout. Handy.
Exercise Balls & Accessories
Resistance bands are another way that I've added strength training to my workouts. I like the plain stretchy ones, but ones with handles can be nice, too.
Resistance Bands
This YT channel offers a lot of different kinds of workouts tailored for older adults. Don't be fooled though; she puts you through the paces. I love the variety here.
SeniorShape Fitness
This mother/daughter duo is a delight. And they have some amazing workouts from Radio Taso to weights, walking, and chair yoga.
yes2next YouTube Channel
Cute clothes make the workout seem a whole lot more fun I think!
Beyond Yoga: Workout Clothes, Yoga Outfits & Activewear Apparel for Women
Being comfortable and stylish at the same time? Yes! Workout wear should feel good and fit well and let you move while supporting your effort, don't you think? It never hurts if it's cute too.
I have this exact magnesium oil and love it. I know it sounds impossible, but I think I sleep much better when I use this at night than when I don't. It's budget friendly too!
Pure Magnesium Oil Spray for Sleep & Cramps
If I overdo it, I can count on epsom salts in a warm tub to hel me feel better again. Simple, effective solutions are kind of my thing!
Amazon Essentials Epsom Salt Soak 3lb
Sometimes a little extra comfort for sore muscles is needed. For those times, why not make it a cute bear? Great gift item for the kids in your life too!
Thermal-Aid® Buckley Blue Bear Heating Pad
These have been used with horses for years, but now they’re everywhere for humans too. Models like this one are designed to be compact enough for home use. I have to admit, I don’t have this one, but I love using these.