To be fit and reach your fitness goals is not just a way of life. It’s also a smart thing to do after that milestone age of 60. Fortunately, many fitness centers in the United States have developed special classes for elderly people.
These classes don’t just encompass strength and flexibility. They also involve balance and camaraderie as elderly people exercise.
Why Fitness Matters After 60
First and foremost, our muscles, bones, and joints become weaker as we age. Moderate exercise won’t just delay this. It will also prevent the onset of chronic diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, and cardiovascular disorders.
Key Features to Look for in Senior Fitness Programs
Look for fitness center Orlando programs with:
- Low-impact or joint-friendly exercises
- Clear safety procedures
- A welcoming & age-inclusive environment
- Certified instructors well-trained in senior fitness
- Small class sizes for more personalized attention
The Best Fitness Programs
Here are common programs, whether you choose the gym or exercise at home:
1. SilverSneakers
SilverSneakers is a successful fitness program for seniors in the US. Many fitness facilities across the country don’t just offer it. They also include it under Medicare Advantage plans.
The program consists of cardiovascular conditioning, weight training, and flexibility exercises. Examples of these exercises include yoga and Tai Chi. This convenience also applies to accessing online classes to maintain activity.
2. Water Aerobics
Water aerobics is perfect for adults with weak joints or arthritis. It is less stressful on the joints. However, it still provides the necessary resistance for a good muscle workout.
Many gyms offer aerobics in shallow water. This is where you can start with simple exercises and easily keep up with your trainer. These classes are also a good way to build balance and endurance without the impact of exercises done on the ground.
3. Strength & Balance Classes
A strong and stable body can help to reduce the causes of falls and accidents. Strength and balance exercises don’t just involve using light weights and resistance bands. It also encompasses stability exercises to strengthen muscles in the abdominal and leg regions.
These sessions are usually conducted by certified trainers who understand senior fitness requirements. Class sizes are often limited to cater to everyone in the center best.
4. Gentle Yoga & Stretching Programs
Aging is usually marked by reduced flexibility. However, easing practices like yoga can help increase it. Yoga for elderly individuals still involves physical movements.
Nonetheless, these movements are slow and are accompanied by deep breaths. These sessions don’t just help in decreasing joint stiffness. They also help in enhancing mobility and calming muscles.
5. Group Fitness Classes
Exercising with other people makes it more entertaining. Plus, it helps one stay committed. It is relatively easy to stick to the classes in groups.
This is true, especially when seniors are involved. It offers a forum for participants to have objectives and lift each other.
Consistency is the Key
It’s not about running five sets daily and lifting weights the next day. What matters is staying consistent.
Two or three weekly classes won’t just result in significant strength. It will also lead to flexibility and mood gains. So, choose programs that you will enjoy.