Whether you're 50, 65 or 80, there's virtually no downside to getting into better shape through a good exercise regimen. In fact, the older you get, the more important exercise becomes as it benefits almost every area of your body as well as your mental health.

For a healthier and happier life, getting the right amount of exercise is paramount, and there are some great ways to ease in if you're out of shape, so you can reap the best benefits. It's a good idea to check with your doctor before beginning any new exercise regimen.

To begin, you should keep the following trifecta in mind: Flexibility, Strength, Endurance

The key to starting on these is to ease into it, especially as you get older, which means you should start with flexibility. Your joints have endured years of wear and tear, so you want to gently introduce them to an exercise routine. And while your joints may object at first, you're doing them a world of good, perhaps even halting the onset of osteoarthritis or slowing down existing arthritis.

One of the best ways to do this is to stretch, which works the soft connective tissue in your joints, as well as your muscles. Start with 10-15 minutes in the morning and then again in the evening, using some of the following examples:

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