Senior Fitness Isn't Your Grandmother's Fitness Program

Senior Fitness Isn’t Your Grandmother’s

Physical and Mental Benefits Lead to Happier Health Fitness Program!

How do Seniors typically get fit? Roll their wheelchairs…swing their canes…walk their pet pooch very slowly? Absolutely not! Today’s Senior fitness programs have evolved and are designed to be active - and safe, an opportunity to socialize and a lot of fun (yes, fun!)

Research from Senior health organizations has proven conclusively that exercise benefits mind and body. Here’s a quick primer on its affects: active movement increases heart rate and more blood flows to the brain; breathing quickens and more oxygen enters blood stream and brain, improving “brain fog”; neurogenesis produces more neurons and affects the hippocampus, which controls learning and memory; and neurotrophins are activated leading to greater brain plasticity and better memory.

And, if that isn’t reason enough, exercise also modulates the secretion of major neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin, which are linked with treating depression. Mood, sleep, stress and anxiety can also be improved. Diseases such as dementia, Alzheimer’s, ADHD, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease and stroke may be improved. Group sports/workouts also combat the social isolation many Seniors face.

Here’s some examples of exercise programs: n Chair Programs. Seniors who are new to exercise should work slowly into a program. Almost all Senior programs use a chair, and it’s a good place to start. The chair provides balance and allows a more self-paced workout. But make no mistake, movement around the chair can really get the heart pumping. n Cardio. Gets the body moving and designed to increase flexibility, joint stability, balance, coordination, muscular strength and endurance. n Tai Chi, Yoga, Pilates. Low impact and promotes mental, spiritual and physical discipline using poses, breathing and a focused mind. n Pickleball. The fastest growing sport among Seniors. A combination of table tennis and badmin-

ton, played on a half court and has beginner and advanced play options. n Rhythm, Movement and Line

Dancing. Traditional line dances, clogging, square dance, ballroom dance and swing out use music as a backdrop for movement. n Body Sculpting. Works all muscle groups, boosts metabolism and help burn more calories and retain lean muscle. n Stretch and Balance. Typically, lower impact classes designed to increase endurance, flexibility, and mental acuity. n Stability Ball. Done seated on a large ball to strengthen core (abdominal region), uses bands, light weights and calisthenics to improve overall function.

Have we convinced you yet? Here’s one final thought. With the lingering effects of the Covid pandemic, many Seniors have put their exercise routines on hold. It’s time to get back to being Senior Strong, mentally and physically.

See YOU in class!

For more information on Senior Fitness:

Via Health, Fitness and Enrichment Center Phone: 251.478.3311 E-mail: info@viamobile.org www.viamobile.org