Move more, live well: stay strong, steady and social

Looking after your health doesn’t have to mean tough workouts or strict routines. In land lease communities, staying active can be fun, friendly and part of everyday life. From morning walks to tai chi in the park, gentle movement helps support your body, boost your mood and keep you connected.

Whether you’re newly retired or have been enjoying the land lease lifestyle for years, staying active is one of the best things you can do for your health, independence and happiness.

As we age, gentle, low-impact movement – especially in a supportive, social setting – can make a huge difference to overall wellbeing. And the good news? Many land lease communities are perfectly set up for a more active life, right outside your front door.

Here’s how to embrace fitness the fun, easy way – and why moving more might just help you live well for longer.

Why staying active matters after 50

Our bodies change as we age, but staying active can help keep us strong, steady and mobile – so we can keep doing the things we love. Regular movement:

• improves balance and reduces the risk of falls
• boosts heart health and circulation
• helps maintain a healthy weight
• eases joint stiffness and arthritis symptoms
• supports mental clarity, mood and better sleep

And perhaps most importantly – it helps you stay connected, independent and confident.

Start with gentle, low-impact exercises

The great news is you don’t need expensive equipment or intense workouts to get moving. Low-impact exercise is perfect for older adults – it’s easier on the joints, less likely to cause injury and still gives great benefits over time.

Here are a few ideas:

• Walking – brisk or casual, solo or with friends, walking is one of the best all-round activities.
• Chair yoga – perfect for improving flexibility and posture without having to get up and down off the floor.
• Water-based exercise – swimming, aqua aerobics or just gentle laps at the pool. Great for sore joints.
• Strength exercises using bodyweight – think wall push-ups, seated leg lifts or standing calf raises.
• Tai Chi – slow, flowing movements improve balance, coordination and calm.

Fitness with friends

One of the best things about land lease living is the built-in sense of community. Why not make movement social?

• Start or join a walking group — Regular times and some friendly faces can help you stay motivated. You might even explore nearby parks or coastal paths together.
• Tai Chi or gentle fitness in the park — All you need is a bit of flat grass and someone willing to lead the way. Check local councils as some run free or low-cost sessions.
• Aqua aerobics classes — Check your local pools and community centres because these are low-impact and great fun!
• Gardening club — Yes, it counts! Bending, stretching and digging gives you a great functional workout – without it feeling like exercise.
• Dance or movement to music — No coordination required. Just put on some tunes and move however feels good – solo or with friends.

Tip: If your land lease community doesn’t have group fitness options, consider starting something casual. Chances are others are keen too.

Use what’s around you

Land lease communities often have great facilities – think walking paths, green space, clubhouses or pools. Take advantage of these features to build movement into your day:

• Swim a few laps before breakfast
• Use community gardens for a bit of active weeding or watering
• Pop on some comfy shoes and walk to collect the mail
• Suggest ‘stretch and chat’ mornings in the clubhouse or on the lawn

Movement doesn’t have to be structured – it just has to happen. Every bit counts.

The emotional and mental health benefits of staying active

Exercise isn’t just good for the body – it’s a powerful tool for managing mood, anxiety and even memory. When we move, our brains release feel-good chemicals that can lift spirits, reduce stress and help us sleep better.

And in retirement, when routines shift and social circles change, staying physically active can help fill the gaps. It offers:

• a reason to get up and out each day
• chances to connect with others
• a sense of purpose and progress

Even ten minutes of movement can help you feel more focused, energetic and emotionally balanced.

Making it work for you

The key to lasting habits? Find something you enjoy – or at least don’t dread – and start small.

• Choose activities to suit your lifestyle and health needs
• Set realistic goals. A walk to the park twice a week is better than exercise every day forever
• Listen to your body – some stiffness is normal, but pain is a sign to pull back
• Mix it up to keep it interesting
• Be kind to yourself – every bit of movement is a win

You don’t have to do it alone

At MHIA, we understand wellness is about more than avoiding illness – it’s about living a life that feels good. And that includes feeling strong, supported and active in your land lease community.

We’re proud to support Australians enjoying this lifestyle with tailored insurance and friendly service. Because when you feel safe and secure at home, it’s easier to get out there and make the most of every day.

So go on – lace up the walking shoes, call a neighbour or try that tai chi class. Move a little more and live a whole lot better.

Protect your land lease lifestyle with confidence

Visit MHIA to learn more about our insurance options and why thousands of Australians trust us to cover what matters most.