The benefits of exercise groups for seniors include improved social connection and reduced loneliness, greater motivation and accountability, enhanced safety and professional guidance, better physical function and mobility, and increased cognitive health and well-being. You won't have to worry about keeping up, as programs can easily be tailored to your health and mobility level.
According to America's Health Rankings, 31.7% of adults aged 65 and older who are healthy say they don't get any physical activity or exercise. For those who aren't in great health, this number is probably even higher, due to mobility issues and pain or discomfort.
Physical activity is vital to our overall well-being, though, so it's crucial that people of all ages get regular exercise, especially older adults in Richmond, VA.
It may be difficult to get moving on your own, so consider joining exercise groups for seniors. There are many benefits you can get from doing so!
The CDC states that there are numerous physical activity benefits for adults aged 65 or older. Not only does it support your physical health, but it also supports your mental health.
One of the biggest advantages is improved mobility, which can help you stay independent for much longer, as you'll have less risk of tripping and falling. Plus, cardiovascular exercises can help manage chronic conditions.
You'll also enjoy better mental and emotional health. Physical activity can:
Knowing about the benefits of senior fitness in Richmond, VA, is one thing, but getting yourself to actually participate is another. What many older adults find helpful for active aging in Virginia is joining exercise groups.
Here are the benefits you can enjoy from doing so.
According to Michigan Medicine, 1 in 3 older adults experience loneliness and isolation. Group workouts for seniors offer you the chance to form meaningful social connections, and this is vital for your emotional well-being.
When you do shared activities with other seniors, you'll get a sense of belonging and community. And social engagement can reduce stress and improve your mood, which can significantly enhance your overall happiness and quality of life.
When it's just you exercising, it's easy to say to yourself, "I'll do it tomorrow instead." Before you know it, you haven't worked out for weeks, and any progress you've made is completely undone.
This won't happen with exercise groups. There's a natural sense of accountability, as you're more likely to show up when others are expecting you there.
Also, the instructors and participants will provide encouragement, motivating you to stay committed to your goals. This can lead to better long-term results!
There are many things that can go wrong when working out, especially as you get older. What's great about exercise groups for seniors is that the instructors are trained and experienced, so they understand:
If you follow their instructions carefully, you'll reduce the risk of injury and get optimal results. And if they notice that you're struggling, they can easily modify the activities so they're more comfortable for you.
Often, exercise groups for older adults will incorporate well-rounded routines that target multiple areas of fitness. These programs are intended to help you stay mobile and independent, so expect to work on things like strength, balance, flexibility, and cardiovascular endurance.
If you participate consistently, then you'll soon find daily tasks much easier and more comfortable. The group format will make it more engaging too.
Exercise in itself can already help with cognitive health since it increases blood flow to the brain. But you get an extra layer of stimulation with group exercise, and you'll benefit from senior social wellness as well.
So if you struggle with things like the winter blues, exercising in a social setting can make mental health struggles much easier to deal with.
The best exercise program for seniors is one that has multiple fitness components. They are:
In addition, the program should be tailored to each individual's health and mobility level.
A well-rounded weekly routine might have:
The most important thing to know is that the "best" program isn't a "one-size-fits-all" one. Instead, it should be specifically created to be safe, enjoyable, and sustainable.
The most beneficial exercise for seniors is walking since it's low-impact, doesn't require special equipment, and is easy to modify. Walking can:
If older adults have mobility issues, then alternatives to consider include water aerobics, stationary cycling, or chair-based workouts.
The main focus of a fitness program for seniors should be mobility and balance for older adults, with the ultimate goal of maintaining independence. The exercises should make daily tasks easier and safer, such as climbing stairs or getting up from a chair.
Strength training is also key since age-related muscle loss can affect your posture and mobility.
As you can see, there are numerous benefits you can get from joining exercise groups for seniors. Not only can you learn safe and effective exercises, but you'll stay motivated and committed to consistency, as there's a built-in support system and accountability.
Even better is that you'll get your fill of social interaction, which is vital to your overall well-being. These holistic benefits mean that every older adult should exercise in a group setting, as there are practically no drawbacks.
Get in touch with us today if you'd like more information about senior living in Richmond, VA. Virginian has light linen service and weekly housekeeping and maintenance, so our residents don't have to lift a finger.