6 of the best healthy hobbies in midlife | for fun, fitness and friendship

I'm slowly planning the next phase of my life, now I have an empty nest, and I am tentatively looking forward to my 60th birthday, retirement is on the horizon (not for me, I will still be blogging but when my husband retires life will change). and I am keen to find a new hobby and a new purpose, it's exciting!

The past few years have been full on, juggling family, running a business, a couple of health wobbles, older parents, a pandemic, and an economy that doesn't seem to be working in our favour.  I have been taking some time to pause, reflect and plan more time to invest in me!  Finding a healthy hobby can bring both physical and mental benefits while adding fun and connection and structure to my week.  My biggest fear is Alzheimer's but one of the best ways to protect ourselves is to keep up with important social connections!

Here are a few new hobbies I am exploring!  Let me know what you think, what is your midlife hobby, have you tried any of these?
​
This blog post contains paid for links.

1. Walking or hiking in midlfe

Walking might seem simple, but it’s one of the best things you can do for your health at any age. It’s low impact, free, and a brilliant way to clear your head and get outdoors. Whether it’s a daily solo stroll, walking with a friend, or joining a local walking group, the benefits for both mind and body are huge.

I've been re-investigating nordic walking (but can't find a group locally), I've also been looking at local walking groups.  I want to do more than just go for a stroll with my dogs!  If I take up more serious walking I want to really use it to invest in my health.  I've got as far as buying a book on local walks.

2. Tennis or padel for serious longevity benefits!

Tennis offers fitness and fun combined, I’ve written before about tennis and why it’s such a fantastic sport for midlife and later life. It improves fitness, coordination, and stamina — but it’s also incredibly sociable. Many clubs offer beginner sessions for adults, so it’s never too late to pick up a racket and give it a try.

I'm considering trying padel as a fun alternative to traditional tennis, it is easier on the body because the court is smaller, the racket is lighter and the underarm serve means there's less strain on the shoulders.  The game is fast-paced but less technical so beginners can pick it up easier, it is also very sociable,  I've not played any racket sports since my late teens but I was at one time quite good at tennis so I think I could pick padel up!  My mum was an excellent table tennis player so that's another idea!

3. Golf for gentle exercise and a new challenge

If running or high-impact exercise isn’t your thing, golf could be the perfect option. It’s low impact but still gives you a good amount of movement as you walk the course, and it’s a wonderful way to spend time outdoors. There’s also a great social side to golf, with plenty of time to chat as you play.
​
And of course, like any new hobby, having the right kit helps. A comfortable pair of golf shoes can make all the difference when you’re out on the course for a few hours keeping your feet supported while you focus on enjoying the game.

4. Yoga or pilates for strength and flexibility

Both yoga and Pilates are brilliant for keeping your body supple and your mind calm. They help build core strength, improve posture, and reduce stress — ideal if you spend a lot of time sitting at a desk or want to protect your joints as you get older.

I tried yoga many years ago but found it a bit slow for me, I do enjoy Pilates and am considering going back to a weekly class, again for the social side and I think it will really help with a few aches and complement my strength training.

5. Weight training for building muscle

​Weight training becomes increasingly important in midlife, especially for women, as we naturally start to lose muscle mass and bone density with age. Lifting weights — whether at the gym or with a simple set of dumbbells at home — helps build and maintain lean muscle, improves strength, supports bone health, and keeps your metabolism firing. It’s not about bulking up; it’s about staying strong, independent, and protecting your body for the years ahead. Even two short sessions a week can make a real difference to how you feel and move in everyday life.

And I really fancy the challenge of being able to lift heavy!  It's been a few years since I did serious weight training and I miss it, I want to be 80 and still able to deadlift!  Watch this space!

6. Creative hobbies for balancing mind and body

Healthy hobbies aren’t just about movement. Painting, photography, gardening, or even learning a new instrument can be incredibly fulfilling. They give you space to be creative, focus on the moment, and switch off from the daily rush.

Photography, sewing and crochet are the three I'd like to explore more!  I might even get back into gardening!

Most importantly, make time for you!

​Whatever hobby you choose, the key is finding something you enjoy. When it feels fun rather than a chore, you’re far more likely to stick with it and the benefits for your physical and mental health will follow naturally.  

Midlife is the perfect opportunity to put yourself back on the priority list. Whether it’s tennis, yoga, walking, or maybe even your first round of golf, a healthy hobby could be just what you need to feel fitter, calmer, and more connected.

And if nothing else it is a good excuse to go shopping for tracksuits, new trainers and have fun trying out the different hobbies until you find the right one!

Love from
Michelle xx


Disclaimer: this blog post contains paid for links.