Andrew and Maria move for freedom
“We don’t have a specific goal to reach some predefined level of physical form. We just want good health.”
For Andrew and Maria, movement isn’t a training plan - it’s a way of living with curiosity, health, and joy. As retirees, they choose what feels right each day, guided by nature, fresh air, and the simple freedom to move.
Andrew and Maria grew up loving the outdoors. From childhood, movement meant walking in parks, biking, skiing, swimming, and playing with family. That sense of joy never left. “'Until today activities are connected to fun, interaction with others and physical achievements,” Andrew says.
They choose activity based on how they feel and what the day allows. “We set physical activities according to our mental and physical capabilities at the time,” Andrew says. Their favourite parts are simple and consistent: nature, fresh air, freedom of movement, and the satisfaction that comes after effort. “We feel a better physical and mental condition and a sense of accomplishment after a long bike ride, or skiing in blowing snow,” Andrew says.
Family is a steady motivation. They want to keep up with their grandchildren and build memories that last. “We want to keep up with them, to be able to bake, swim or ski together,” they say, and they hope those memories will be carried forward.
One day on the lake reinforced a lesson they still repeat. The morning looked calm and perfect for kayaking, but the wind changed. “The wind got stronger, and waves became bigger,” they say. Turning back was harder than expected and the water kept rising. Near shore, a wave filled the kayak. “It was really scary,” they say. Help arrived from people on the beach. “We were safe, grateful for the help, and totally wet,” they say. Their takeaway is clear: check the weather, and respect the wind on the lake.
Andrew and Maria move for freedom.
What does active living look like when it is built for longevity? Share what moves you!