One of the very best ways for seniors to stay active, healthy and happy is to remain engaged in regular exercise. But it can be challenging to remain engaged, motivated and committed to your routine. This why signing up for group exercise classes can be a fantastic way to stay in shape. Knowing that your instructor and your classmates are expecting you can make for powerful encouragement. As an added bonus, this can also be a great way to socialize and make new friends. But which are the best group exercise classes for you? Well that depends on your physical range and your personal preference.
Balance Exercises According to Elder Gym, between 28% and 45% of seniors will suffer a fall on an annual basis. Such falls can lead to severe injury, sustained hospitalization or even fatality. This is why balance training is so important. Many retirement developments, community centers, gyms or rehabilitation facilities will offer group exercise classes comprised of low-impact balance training activities.
Like any skill, balance is one that is maintained and improved through practice. Therefore, find a group exercise class that employs strength training, endurance training and balance-based routines that can improve your ability to safely face everyday challenges like stair-climbing or getting into and out of the shower.
Swimming eHow points out that swimming is an another great way to condition and prevent muscle loss. One of the great things about swimming is that it has significantly less impact on your joints than does exercising on dry land. Likewise, aquatic group exercise can engage all parts of your body without posing a major risk of strain or falling. Many community centers and gyms offer instructional exercise classes that take advantage of these unique benefits. Beyond that, swimming can be a fun and refreshing way to take on your exercise routine without sacrificing any of the desired health benefits.
Walking Not all group exercises take place in the gym. Some activities are best pursued in a more colorful setting. eHow suggests that one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways for seniors to get together and exercise is to take a walk around the mall. Many senior communities provide regular bussing to area malls for this very reason.
Among the benefits of taking a low impact walk around the mall with some of your friends is the fact that the weather never changes. This is a safe, hospitable place for groups of seniors to stroll without being impacted by the elements or by excessive pedestrian traffic. Additionally, most malls are well-equipped with amenities for seniors including handicapped accommodations and strategically placed sitting areas. And of course, let’s not forget the food court!
When it comes to group exercise, you will need to work within your level of comfort. As always, don’t over-exert yourself. Likewise, always consult a physician before starting a new activity. But whatever you decide to do to stay in shape, find a good group of people to help you along.
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