Depending on your athletic prowess, you might be a natural runner, or you might be the type of person who has to work harder to achieve the same goals. Many runners turn to barefoot running after years of aching joints, pulled muscles, and general running dissatisfaction.

As we age, it becomes increasingly important to stay active, but it also becomes difficult. Our bodies are capable of a lot, but we’ll often be reminded that we just aren’t 18 anymore. Typically, our bodies tend to perform best when we take care of ourselves. This means eating well, making time for physical activity, and finding work/life balance.

Though we never suggest a drastic switch from a sedentary lifestyle to marathon training, adding short intervals of exercise into your daily routine is a great way to improve functionality of both your body and your mind.

Transition Slowly

If you were a runner in your youth but fell out of practice, it might be worth taking up the sport again. Start slow. Find a pace that works for you and make time to stretch and strengthen on your off days. Though some seniors swear by orthotics and support shoes, going minimalist is gaining in popularity.

Consider alternating between a minimalist option like the Vibram FiveFingers Lontra and a more supportive shoe like Asics gel trainers.

Don’t Let Age Hold You Back

Simply because you fall into the 65 and older demographic doesn’t mean your lifestyle has to reflect that of someone “past their prime”. As they say, 50 is the new 40, so as long as you take care of yourself and find time to be active, you can look and feel decades younger than your biological age.

So, whether you’re 30 or 80, remember to incorporate some aspect of exercise into your life. Vibrams might be a good addition to your current activity routine or you can look to minimalist running as a way to prevent injuries and strengthen bone density as you age.

Are you a Vibram FiveFinger fan over the age of 65? Send us a picture of you in your minimalist footwear!