Staying fit should be your first concern, no matter how old you are; if you’ve reached 60 or 65 years of age and wondering what to do next. Getting back to nature makes the best answer to your question. Start exploring the environment on your foot once again just the way you do in your 20’s or 30’s. I have encountered numerous hikers, travellers, and pilgrims who are in their 70’s and taking a multiday hiking trip. If they can do it, you can take a step forward for your health too.

Whether you’re a teenager or a 75-years old, training is the mantra to stay fit and healthy at all ages. Just remember, you don't need to walk for hours, be regular and enjoy the journey.

  1. Wisely Build Your Endurance

To begin with your training, start walking daily, keep a record of the distance covered and route followed. Share your data and results with your grandkids, practice partners, or friends as it will support your efforts. Keeping a record of your training will be beneficial in the future.

Robbie Johannesen, a retired physical therapist advises senior hikers to stay hydrated during and after walks. You can search complete workout training plans on the internet, most of them recommend adding time and miles on a weekly basis. Add more rest intervals on a challenging day.

  1. Work to Strengthen Your Core

Your legs and core muscles have to be strong to walk for hours. In order to prevent the compression of your spine and the problem of backache, you should work to strengthen your core. Activities that will help strengthen your core include water aerobics, yoga, pilates, and swimming.

  1. Try Walking Poles

A strong core assists in balancing your body on a rough terrain and so do trekking poles. They help ease your step, reducing pressure on your ankles and knees, assists you to step forward, helps you determine the roughness of the surface, and prevents you from losing balance. Start building your arm strength to handle a trekking pole on mud, rock, or asphalt.

  1. Practice Silently

Walking or training with friends helps time pass, practice silently and prepare yourself for long-distance walking. Spending time with yourself and nature is necessary to stay motivated at all times. You can keep a notepad with yourself, pen down the things that amazed you in a particular day and how it feels to be staying healthy at an old age. Share your experiences with your grandkids and family to motivate them.

  1. Test Your Ability

Don’t forget to test your ability and performance. Check how much distance you’ll be able to cover in two to three hours of a new trail. Initially carry a lightweight backpack, gradually start adding weight to it, use poles on different terrains to test the strength of your core, arms, and legs.

Fitness trainers always recommend stopping as early as your body starts giving indications. Don’t stick to your schedules when you feel exhausted. Take proper rest and start again.