Today's leisure options for the over 50s are unprecedented. Retirees of the 21st century are more time- and money-rich than ever before, and have the prospect of longer, healthier futures - providing much more time to make the most of increased leisure opportunities.

Indeed, a study commissioned by HSBC revealed that the baby boomer generation (currently aged between 52 and 60) has achieved a perfect form of work-life balance that Generation X (their slightly more youthful, 20 to 40 year-old counterparts) will aim for but never afford. The report stresses that 'the idea of old age has itself grown old' and the traditional picture of quiet, uneventful retirement has slipped into history.

Instead, we look to our later years to provide an enviable blend of learning, work and leisure. For some, however, our busy lives both before and after retirement can be a real obstacle to 'downtime'. Play it again! reflects on the challenge of re-learning how to let go and take time out for yourself.

The retirement years, then, could soon be seen as less leisurely than for previous generations. But there's no doubt that the quality of that leisure time can now be greater than ever. Our improved health, fitness and affluence mean that we expect to use our leisure time to pursue more varied and challenging activities. Raising your game examines how our aspirations are changing, whether we're planning trips and holidays, one-off experiences or regular pastimes. If you're in need of inspiration, it'll give you ideas on expanding your horizons and trying out something completely new.

Mind you, it's not all about madcap adventure and stretching the physical boundaries. For example, there's a new passion that's sweeping the nation: the chance to immerse yourself in a personal voyage of discovery - without even leaving your computer. Kith and kings explores the growing thirst for discovering our family histories. Why not sit back with a coffee and a computer and start checking out your heritage? It's fun, fascinating and you're sure to be surprised along the way… But be warned: once you start, the genealogy journey is infectious!

Leonardo da Vinci once said: 'Time stays long enough for anyone who will use it.'

Amble through the Play pages and explore new ways to make great use of your free time.

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