Is gardening good exercise for over 50s?

Yes. The NHS classifies gardening as moderate-intensity physical activity. An hour of active gardening (digging, weeding, raking) burns similar calories to a brisk walk and engages multiple muscle groups. Regular gardening also improves flexibility, grip strength, and mental wellbeing.

What is the best way to avoid back pain from gardening?

Warm up before gardening, bend from the knees and hips (not the waist), use long-handled tools to reduce bending, alternate between tasks every 20-30 minutes, and stretch afterwards. Raised beds eliminate bending entirely for many gardening tasks.

Should I garden if I have arthritis?

Gardening can be beneficial for people with arthritis because it provides gentle, varied exercise that maintains joint mobility and muscle strength. Use ergonomic tools, pace yourself, garden during warmer parts of the day when joints are typically less stiff, and choose the tasks that feel most comfortable. Versus Arthritis recommends gardening as an enjoyable way to stay active.