7 Benefits of Exploring New Fitness Programs in Your Senior Living Community

Aging doesn’t mean slowing down. In fact, many older adults are realizing that incorporating a regular fitness routine improves their chances of living a long, healthy, and independent life. According to the National Council on Aging, regular exercise can help older adults stay independent and prevent many health problems that come with age.

Following a fitness program takes time, energy, and commitment. One of the best ways to commit to a regular fitness program is to switch it up by trying new activities.

Many senior living communities are helping residents stay active by offering a variety of fitness programs and exercise classes designed specifically for older adults. From tai chi and water aerobics to stretching and chair yoga, you’ll have many options to find something you love.

Here are some benefits of committing to a regular fitness routine as a senior.

1. Improved Physical & Cardiovascular Health

One of the most significant benefits of a regular fitness routine is the boost to physical and cardiovascular health. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control And Prevention, a single session of moderate to vigorous physical activity provides immediate benefits for your health. In addition, regular physical activity helps prevent many chronic diseases.

Check out some of the ways a regular fitness routine can improve your overall health:

• Lowers your risk of heart disease and stroke
• Reduces your risk of eight cancers, including bladder, breast, colon, endometrium, esophagus, lung, kidney, and stomach
• Lowers your risk of type 2 diabetes
• Helps you maintain a healthy weight
• Improves bone strength

2. Enhanced Strength and Flexibility

Exercises such as weightlifting, resistance bands, push-ups, planks, and yoga can improve strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination. These are all vital for seniors who are at a greater risk of injuries from falls.

3. Enhanced Mental Wellbeing

Mental health and wellness are important parts of overall health and well-being. Regular exercise can do wonders for mental, emotional, and cognitive health. Exercising decreases muscle tension and releases endorphins, which boost mood and relieve stress.

Many senior living communities offer activities that benefit mental health. Trying new wellness programs, such as tai chi, yoga, and meditation classes, can help improve your mood and mental health.

In addition, participating in new wellness routines can improve cognitive function by challenging the brain.

4. Boosts Confidence

There’s no bigger confidence booster than feeling and looking good. Mastering a new fitness routine is empowering, especially when you notice improvements in your strength and endurance. In addition, being fit makes everyday activities like walking, bending, or standing much easier, and it also boosts your confidence and encourages you to try new things.

5. Increases Motivation & Accountability

A lack of motivation can be one of the most significant deterrents to trying and maintaining a new fitness routine. Exploring a variety of fitness programs keeps things fresh and interesting, making it more likely for you to stay engaged.  

Trying a different type of workout might reignite your motivation. Participating in a group class creates an environment of accountability. When friends expect and encourage you to show up, you’re more likely to commit to a regular fitness routine.

6. Decreases Boredom

Many people give up on exercise because they get bored. If your exercise routine has been walking on the treadmill for the last few years and you're feeling bored and uninspired, you must switch it up!

One of the best things about living in a senior living community is the abundance of new and fresh fitness programs to keep residents fit, inspired, and engaged.

Consider participating in a few different types of fitness programs each week. Try strength training on Monday, Zumba on Wednesday, and end your week with a relaxing yoga or meditation class.

7. Encourages Social Connection & Community Engagement

Seniors with a robust social life are happier and healthier than their counterparts. Senior living communities are designed to encourage and facilitate social connection. Whether it’s a group walking club, hiking, or a dance class, these activities create opportunities to connect with fellow residents and build friendships.

8. Prevents Plateaus

When your body gets used to the same routine, it adapts, which can lead to weight and fitness plateaus. Switching up your fitness routine challenges your muscles in different ways, improving growth and progress.

Wrap-up

Fitness is an integral part of a healthy lifestyle. Seniors who follow a regular fitness program enjoy many benefits, including improved physical, mental, and emotional health.

Residents in senior living communities have access to a variety of fitness programs. Trying new fitness classes keeps you motivated, reduces boredom, and enhances your overall fitness.