One expert has said in July that the over-50s are keen now to keep ill-health at bay and stay active during their twilight years. Chairman of the Scottish branch of the British Geriatrics Society Dr William Primrose said that retirees have as much right as anyone to stay in shape and live an active lifestyle. He stated that over-50s can retain an element of independence by exercising regularly, something that will add a certain amount of youth to their overall demeanour.

At one time, retirement may have been about sitting back and relaxing, after many years of slaving away earning a wage. When most people think about retirement, it conjures up images of nestling in a cosy chair or taking a stroll by the lake. Surely after a huge space of time in the nine-to-five existence, such a period should be taken up with tranquil knitting and feeding the fish? Well, not anymore, with a new brand of pensioner coming into their own.

"For older people who are unfit, but have no medical conditions which would prevent them from exercising, there are plenty of opportunities for improving their functional performance, strength and endurance and this will lead to generalised benefits in terms of wellbeing," he told the Herald. These thoughts were echoed by the chief executive from Age Concern Scotland David Manion, who said that the over-50s are gradually starting to see the benefits of staying active and indulging in a series of different activities, such as curling, among other forms of keeping fit.

With these comments in mind, many of today's new young at heart older generation could see the positives in obtaining home gym items, or rowing machines and other suitable equipment. If Dr Primrose is to be believed, then such purchases could add vitality to a unique era of life, offering a great deal of choice and warding off health problems.

However, with added, expensive products laying around the house, users may want to consider home insurance that could cover them in case of breakage or theft. And, as there is even more reason to continue exercise until the later years, said Female First.co.uk, this would seem like a good option.

The website stated that a number of potential problems can be beaten with just a little bit of regular exercise. Serious woes include cardiovascular disease and diabetes, which could damage an independent lifestyle that a high proportion of the over-50s now enjoy. In addition, there is a social aspect to this new kick, with now hobbies generating new friendships and fresh interests. Further, there is never an age at wish budding fitness freaks have to stop, it said.

But, choosing to stay at home and enter this healthy living arena can be just as much fun. With the correct level of provision, such as home insurance for active accessories, a whole generation could benefit from a craze that just doesn't look like ending. Now, it seems, it's not only the young with a passion for living life to the full.