Staying active mostly means one thing to me: being able to really join in. Sitting on the floor with your grandchild without effort and getting back up smoothly, or keeping pace on a sporty bike ride without falling behind out of breath.
Those everyday, meaningful moments have been at least as big a motivation for me to stay fit as my own physical health.
Joining In Physically Is One of the Finest Ways to Be Present
Children and grandchildren notice the difference between a parent or grandparent who watches passively from a chair on the sidelines and one who takes part.
By running along, climbing, or rolling around on the floor together, you build a very different, deeper bond. Joining in physically creates shared memories and a strong emotional connection.
It Works Both Ways
The nice thing about these active moments is that they work in both directions: playing with your children or grandchildren is a form of functional movement in itself.
Bending down to pick up toys, lifting, walking, and chasing after a ball are all movements that help keep your muscles and joints supple. You do not have to set aside separate time for it in your calendar; the joy of being together and your daily physical upkeep reinforce each other directly.
The full approach is in The Power of 50+
These are my own insights and experiences; this section does not come directly from the book.