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You're never too old to start something new. It may sound cliché, and while it's unlikely you'll become an international sports star, there are plenty of new things you can do and excel at.

Hobbies are important for a happy, balanced life. Being over 40 usually means that you're a bit more established in various areas, making it actually easier to fit new activities into your schedule.

You're now more mature, have more patience, and still have enough stamina to do a number of physical activities, so this is the perfect time to embark on a new adventure!

In this gallery you'll find a selection of hobbies you can take up in your 40s, so browse through and be inspired.

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Learning a new language can be a fascinating experience and do wonders for your brain. Is there a language you've always wanted to learn? Go for it!

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Yes, your friends will look at you funny when you do your wine tasting techniques next time you open a bottle, but trust us, they're just jealous!

▲Buy a few mason jars, get some vinegar and spices, and start pickling vegetables. Bring some jars to the next dinner party and watch people's reaction!

▲Snapping photos keeps your creative side active and allows you to see the world through a different lens.

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Buy a mat and check out some YouTube videos to get you started. You can join classes too if you prefer.

▲Do you have a message to share with the world? Are you an expert on a topic and want to share your thoughts? Perhaps you want to have guests over and chat about interesting topics? All good reasons to start a podcast.

▲"But I'm not a writer," we hear you say. Well, is there a reason not to write a book, really? Just start something, take your time, let your creativity flow.

▲The fresh air, the views, everything about hiking breathes health. This is a simple way to be closer to nature.

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If you're into beer, why not set up your own home brewery? There are plenty of home kits available and you'll feel like a scientist. Bonus: you'll have a drink at the end!

▲Learning to play an instrument is an amazing experience. Again, you can start on your own by watching some videos, or you can get classes.

▲Start running. Do sprints, run long distances, pick your poison. If you're into distance running, why not try a marathon?

▲Gardening can be really satisfying. Taking care of the land and making sure all the plants are well looked after is a beautiful and relaxing hobby to have.

▲If you don't have the space to give gardening a try, you can always plant a few herbs in the comfort of your own home.

▲If you want to take a more designer approach to gardening, then landscaping might be your best bet. All you need is vision, creativity, and the tools to do it.

▲There are plenty of online tutorials on how to make these cute folded paper sculptures. Why not make some and give them as gifts?

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Do you like watching movies? Why not delve into it a bit further? There's a whole world of film to discover.

▲Learning how to edit and retouch photos can be a great way to use your creativity. Plus, your selfies will never look the same again.

▲With age comes a refined taste for finer foods, so why not learn how to cook amazing dishes?

▲Building model cars or planes can be a great way to help you focus on the task at hand and consequently relax.

▲It's important to do something for others. It's part of a balanced life, and it will surely make you feel good, so just volunteer to whatever cause is closest to your heart.

▲Can you find your way with a compass and a map in your hands? Geocaching can be a fun outdoors activity to take up. It's like treasure hunting for grown ups!

▲Projects such as refinishing wood or refurbishing furniture are a great way to pass an afternoon.

▲This is a fun and interesting hobby to take up. Plus, you'll pull the best party tricks ever!

▲If running just doesn't cut it for you, why not try a tougher challenge? There are plenty that will surely test your limits.

▲This is your chance to make your handwriting as nice and neat as possible. Calligraphy is an art form and it takes practice to write beautiful-looking letters.

▲Delve into the world of art. Start visiting exhibitions, reading, and learning about it. There's a whole world of art out there to be explored. Plus, you can impress your friends with your knowledge!

▲The classic strategy board game can be a great hobby. It takes years to master, so think about the possibilities for development.

▲Not to break into other people's homes and cars, but it's a cool skill to have. Next you might become a spy, who knows?

▲And take it seriously. Bowling can be a great way for you to meet new people and wear a shiny new shirt and shoes.

▲Do you have a skill, a product, or a service that allows you to make some extra income? Why not do a bit of that on the side? Who knows where it may lead!

▲Explore your family history and trace your lineage with resources from your local library or any number of online ancestry websites.

▲There is just something about restoring a classic car to its former glory. When you're younger, you just want to drive them. Now it's the time to make them!

▲Learn how to do some basic leatherwork such as cleaning and treating the leather. Soon you'll be cutting and sewing all sorts of pieces.

▲There's an art to grilling the perfect steak. Now imagine if you can can cook any meat to perfection, anytime you want it!

▲You may use it as another excuse to wander in the woods, but the truth is that birding can be really thrilling and relaxing at the same time.

▲The night sky is fascinating. Get yourself a telescope or join groups in your local area and go stargazing. There are usually a number of events not to be missed throughout the year.

▲Swimming brings you a myriad of health benefits. It's a useful skill to have and a relaxing activity as well.

▲You might remember seeing others playing golf and wondering what's so exiting about it. Well, it's the right time to find out!

▲Snorkeling can be a great way to enjoy the submerged wonders our world has to offer, including coral reefs and amazing sea creatures.

▲It's never too late to get in the best shape of your life. Start lifting weights and reap the benefits of feeling and looking great!

▲This a great way to enjoy the outdoors. If you live within a reasonable distance of a lake, river, or even sea, then this is another one to include on your bucket list.

▲Lean to master the bow and arrow and you'll never look at a bull's-eye the same way ever again. Robin who?

▲Why not venture into the woods and forage for berries, plants, and fungus. Just make sure you join a group or get a guide before you do it on you own. You don't want to end up getting poisoned!

▲Standing on a paddleboard is more demanding than it looks. It requires balance and endurance, but it's all worth it in the end when you find yourself surrounded by stunning scenery.

▲Check out what your favorite stars are into by looking at their most bizarre hobbies!

Best hobbies to take up in your 40s

In this gallery you'll find a selection of hobbies you can take up in your 40s

28/08/19 por João Curro

LIFESTYLE Life

You're never too old to start something new. It may sound cliché, and while it's unlikely you'll become an international sports star, there are plenty of new things you can do and excel at.

Hobbies are important for a happy, balanced life. Being over 40 usually means that you're a bit more established in various areas, making it actually easier to fit new activities into your schedule.

You're now more mature, have more patience, and still have enough stamina to do a number of physical activities, so this is the perfect time to embark on a new adventure!

In this gallery you'll find a selection of hobbies you can take up in your 40s, so browse through and be inspired.