Third age - make it interesting and inspiring

Meet Stephen Jepson, a man bursting with inspiration and vitality. At 73 years young, he introduced a revolutionary training method tailored for the golden years, aptly named "Never Leave the Playground." This innovative approach not only fosters creativity but also keeps the body robust, supple, and brimming with energy, all through the joy of play.

Photo credit: American Parkour

From the moment I encountered him, I was captivated by his unconventional wisdom and his remarkable physical prowess. Stephen epitomizes the ethos of never abandoning the playground of life, crafting an environment that continuously challenges his motor skills. His mantra? Embrace playful movement to safeguard essential abilities like coordination, agility, balance, strength, and, of course, flexibility.

We've all heard the adage, "use it or lose it," and Stephen's approach underscores the importance of preserving muscle mass and flexibility as the years pass. But how do we achieve this? How do we nurture strength, flexibility, and boundless vitality as we age?

Here are some delightful habits that can seamlessly integrate into your daily routine:

Balancing Act: Spice up your morning routine by standing on one leg while brushing your teeth. Challenge yourself to a minute on each leg. This not only enhances balance but also sharpens coordination—a multitasking marvel!

Rise and Shine: Master the art of standing up from sitting without using your hands and with closed eyes. This simple yet potent exercise mimics the squat, fortifying your lower limbs. Closing your eyes adds an extra layer of challenge, honing proprioception and elevating your spatial awareness.

Hang Time: Embrace the freedom of hanging from a stable pole, whether indoors or in your backyard. Begin with a modest 10 seconds and gradually work your way up to a full minute. This exhilarating exercise bolsters upper limb strength enhances shoulder flexibility, and grants respite to the lower back.

Rise to the Occasion: Sit on the floor and rise to stand at least once a day. This seemingly mundane action is a cornerstone of maintaining flexibility and functional mobility. Pro tip: Check out the instructional video for an expert guide on mastering this movement.

Consistent dedication to these playful practices will ensure your body remains a harmonious symphony of balance, coordination, strength, and flexibility—a testament to the enduring spirit of youthful vigor, regardless of age. So, why wait? Let the playground beckon and may the joy of movement accompany you on this exhilarating journey through life.