Sport for older people

‘Keep exercising all your life’

Sport is a great way to keep fit and healthy well into old age, but many elderly people do not even consider taking part in sport. Only about 15 percent of over-60s regularly participate in sports. With the aim of getting more people involved in sport, in 2000 a wide range of organizations joined forces to form the network ‘Keep exercising all your life’ (‘Mehr Bewegung lebenslang’). 

Working closely with Heidelberg’s sports clubs, the network encourages residents aged over 60 to enjoy a more active, sporty lifestyle. Most recently, 2014, it launched its outdoor keep-fit sessions project for over-50s. Details of courses for older people can also be found in the program of the 'Volkshochschule' adult education center. And Heidelberg’s five swimming pools offer relaxation, fitness and fun for all ages, whether as part of a led course or at a public swimming session.

A popular destination for seniors looking to take part in sport is the Heidelberg Seniors Academy, whose program includes back workouts and relaxation and mindfulness courses. For the particularly energetic, the Seniors Academy also organizes regular extended cycle tours and walking and skiing holidays.

Heidelberg’s Senior Centers have plenty in store for older residents of the city, from cultural events and services to keep-fit sessions where people can socialize at the same time as improving their physical well-being.

Network partners

aktivijA e.V.
City of Heidelberg Office of Sports Facilities and Health Promotion
City of Heidelberg Foreigners’ Council/Migrants’ Council
Bethanien Hospital geriatric center
University of Heidelberg Institute of Gerontology
TSG Rohrbach (Rohrbach gymnastics and sports community)
Turngau Heidelberg (district gymnastics association) 
Heidelberg Sports Federation