Exercise

 

People older than 55 make up the fastest growing segment of the fitness industry, and now more gyms are adding programs aimed at their needs and capabilities.  It isn’t all about hip-hop music and brawny fellows pumping iron any more.  We now see more yoga and aquatic classes as well as recumbent bikes and elliptical machines. 

 

Trainers who used to chant “no pain, no gain,” are now branching out and learning how to work with seniors, which means being mindful of not pushing aging bodies too hard and too fast.  When you are twenty-something you aren’t even aware of arthritis pain and back problems.  Health Maintenance Organizations are pushing prevention and encouraging senior members by offering reduced or free memberships at local gyms.  They are well aware that this will cut health care costs in the long run.

 

Exercise is vital for our senior population.  If you are not stimulating and using your muscles you will lose them.  In addition, many boomers are turning to fitness and exercise for the first time.  It has been well documented that activity is good for your heart and your mental health.  We are also aware by this time that we loose strength and flexibility at a rather alarming rate. Knowledge coupled with the fact that we have more time on our hands is a big incentive to get moving.

 

Choosing an activity that is fun but doesn’t open the door for injuries is the hard part.  When you reach a certain age you realize that you aren’t going to lose fifty pounds over night, so the emphasize is on committing yourself to a safe and effective program. The chances are pretty good that you already feel stiff and sore when you crawl out of bed in the morning.  The idea is to exercise in order to alleviate these symptoms rather than adding new injuries to the mix.  Start slowly and give your body to adjust to any new activities.

 

 Exercise does not have to be hard or complicated.  Consult your physician or a physical therapist if you have been out of the loop for a long time.  One-on-one instruction from a trainer in order to work out an exercise program is also a good way to get started. Your trainer will introduce you to weights and machines, will discuss the role of diet and nutrition, and motivate you to stick with the program.

 

 Enlightened gyms are starting to cater to baby boomers by featuring low and no impact exercise programs that are geared toward improving range of motion and strength. Nifty After Fifty and Boomer Fitness are two

California

based fitness centers that are geared toward meeting the needs of this growing segment of the population.  Check www.ArthritisToday.org/SO09 for tips on locating a boomer-friendly gym.  When gym shopping, take your time and ask questions to see if gentle specialty programs are offered.    

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[Air Jordans]

The man who has made up his mind to win will never say "impossible".