Get Going and Get Strong

Friday, 19 February 2010 14:39

Written by Administrator

Every day is a new beginning. That’s something that rings true for everyone, and it’s something to remember once you make the commitment to get fit. Seniors may think it’s too late, but nothing can be further from the truth. In fact, it may surprise you to learn that a fit, active 70-year-old can be as strong as an unfit 30-year-old.

Even if you’re dealing with health challenges like arthritis, there are exercise programs that can get you more active and help lessen your discomfort.

Of course, it’s important to talk with your physician about your plans to exercise. Together you can find a workout that won’t strain you or cause complications. It’s recommended that seniors start their exercise programs slowly and build up their strength and endurance over time.

Find something you enjoy doing, whether it’s walking or tennis. If you have several favorite activities, that’s fantastic! Cross-training, or engaging in a variety of exercises throughout the week, is a great way to achieve your fitness goals. It’s a good idea to include some aerobic, stretching and strength training activities in your routine.

• Aerobic workouts strengthen the heart and help with weight loss—walking, running, dancing, bicycling.
• Stretching exercises, like yoga, improve balance and flexibility—yoga, tai chi, Pilates.
• Strength training builds muscle tone and strengthens bones—weight lifting, push-ups, sit-ups.

World Gym—Fayette offers programs specifically designed for older adults. SilverSneakers® fitness classes are held at all three locations. The strength and conditioning workouts guide participants through exercises that focus on strength, flexibility, mobility, range of motion, balance, agility and coordination to improve activities for daily living.

At World Gym—Hwy 54, SilverSplash® is available as well. It’s a water-based exercise program that’s part of SilverSneakers® and is designed for non-impact joint issues like arthritis, but includes some cardio, too. There’s also a class called Arthritis & Fibromyalgia Aquatics, which is a low- to medium-intensity workout that allows members to exercise at their own pace.

Seniors who live in retirement communities and assisted living communities can take advantage of the programs available for them. Adults 55 and over who live at Towne Club of Peachtree City have an exercise and fitness center available to them, as well as a resort-style pool and putting green.
Ashley Glen Assisted Living in Peachtree City has a community volunteer come in twice a week and work with residents as they go through a variety of movement exercises.

At Wesley Woods of Newnan-Peachtree City, seniors can choose from a full schedule of fitness activities. “We have a fitness room with equipment that our residents are welcome to use at any time,” says Candice Bryant, Wesley Woods’ Activity Director. “And we offer fitness classes through the week.” On Mondays and Wednesdays, programs are offered by Georgia Rehabilitation as well as by the Activities Department; on Tuesdays and Thursdays, Travis Self of FITT Warehouse directs workouts at Wesley Woods.

Peggy Biddle, Activities Director at Heritage of Peachtree reports that the Sittercise for Seniors exercise program they use is so popular that they have to keep moving furniture out of the room to accommodate everyone who wants to participate. “The residents can’t wait for it to get started,” Peggy says, “but we don’t dare begin too early or we get scolded by the folks who come in on time!” For seniors who want a more advanced class, Heritage of Peachtree also offers a ‘Pump It Up’ program that equipment and concentrates on muscle development.