Activity self-assessment tool
As an older adult living in or around Cambridge, there are plenty of opportunities available to you, which will help you to live an active life.
If you are unsure as to what activity is most suited to you, the activity self-assessment tool will signpost you to local physical activity opportunities that are most likely to benefit you, based upon your current levels of mobility, strength and balance.
This is specifically useful to do if you are:
- starting exercise for the first time or after a sustained period of inactivity
- are over 65 years old
- have a long-term condition or disability that affects your balance, strength or mobility
Following your results, you can also request some further advice on your score with one of the members of the Active Lifestyles team by contacting us at sport@cambridge.gov.uk.
The Department of Health also provides information about the national recommendations for the physical activity levels of older adults, based upon evidence which has been shown to help maintain good physical and mental health.
Bowls
There are a number of indoor and outdoor bowls clubs in Cambridge. Visit Bowls Cambridgeshire to find your local club.
Cambridge Gymnastics Academy
Cambridge Gymnastics Academy runs fun and welcoming active lifestyle sessions to help you keep healthy and learn new skills.
- Mondays, 2 to 3pm at North Cambridge Academy
- £6 per session (£3 if subsidised)
Cambridge United Community Trust
The Cambridge United Community Trust (CUCT) provides a weekly programme of activities for the over-50s called Forever United. Activities include walking football, jolly joggers, wellbeing walks, as well as afternoon tea events.
Visit Cambridge United Community Trust to find out more and check their weekly schedule.
Exercise referral
The Exercise Referral Service provides individualised exercise programmes in both a gym and class environment to any adult living with a long-term condition or disability.
It’s delivered by specialist exercise professionals who are specifically qualified to prescribe exercise programmes to adults with health needs. The service is delivered across several sites in Cambridge and includes the option for home exercise too.
For more information, visit fitness for adults with long-term medical conditions.
Falls Management exercise classes
The Healthy You Fall Management Exercise programme (FaME) helps to improve your strength, stability, and confidence.
It's delivered by specialist qualified exercise instructors who understand the age-related changes that happen in the body and the medical concerns that you may have.
Visit Healthy You for more information.
Forever Active
Forever Active provides exercise, fitness and sport sessions for people returning to physical activity, but specifically for those aged 50+. Activities are suitable for both people with mobility problems.
The more active classes include:
- exercise to music
- pilates, tai chi, strength and balance
- walking netball, yoga and plus so much more
Visit Forever Active to find out more.
Racquet sports
These weekly sessions can be adapted for a livelier workout or a slower pace if you prefer. Sessions are facilitated and are ideal for anyone looking for a friendly and supportive activity to try. Equipment will be provided.
Social Badminton and pickleball (indoor)
- Wednesdays, 12.15 to 2.45pm at David Lloyd Sport Centre
- £3 per session (first four weeks free for new participants)
- Reserve your place on a badminton or pickleball session
Bat and Chat and Senior Racket Sessions
- Mondays, 12 to 12.50pm at Cherry Hinton Village Centre
- £3 per session
- Reserve your place on a Bat and Chat session
Senior Racket Session
- Mondays, 1 to 1.50pm at Cherry Hinton Village Centre
- £3 per session
- Turn up and play or book your place with a Better App account
Tennis and table tennis (indoor and outdoor)
Informal opportunities to play tennis are available across the city’s public courts. Table tennis is also available across the city’s outdoor permanent tables and at the Ping Parlour in the Grafton Centre.
These are available to play on at any time and without the requirement for booking. There is no cost to use a court.
Visit our tennis and table tennis page for more information.
Swimming
If you live in Cambridge and are 60 or older, you can swim at any of the GLL-managed swimming pools in Cambridge for £2.35 per visit. You just need to buy a Better card for £5 per year.
For information on GLL managed pools, read our swimming pages.
Walking sports
There are several free health walks in Cambridge, led by qualified walk leaders. Visit Ramblers Wellbeing Walks and search for ‘Cambridge’ to find out more.
Walking rugby with Cambridge RUFC
- Wednesdays, 6 to 7pm
- For people of all ages and genders.
- Free to attend – turn up on the day or sign up for walking rugby
Walking fitness
A four-week course taking in the city’s sights.
- Tuesdays 12, 19 and 26 September and 3 October, 10 to 11am
- Start and finish at Trumpington Park & Ride
- £8 for all four dates
- Book your place on the walking fitness sessions
