No matter your age, working out is critical for your health and well-being. As you age, it’s especially vital to retain independence and mobility. It’s recommended seniors get at least three half-hour workouts in a week along with two half-hour walking sessions. What are the best workout classes older adults can take to move their bodies effectively?
If you’re interested in learning more about some of the best exercise classes for older adults, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re someone who wants to take on a gentler workout or a senior who wants to be fully immersed in the water for a workout, there is sure to be an exercise option for you.
Tai Chi
One of the classic options when looking at a workout for seniors is tai chi. Tai chi is excellent for keeping functional movement and holding onto balance. It’s filled with slow and intentional movements, which means adults who don’t want to move their bodies too much can perform tai chi – it can even happen in your living room.
One study shows that tai chi is low-impact, and there is growing evidence that it’s one of the best forms of working out, as the movements can be adapted to fit any level of movement. Young children can perform routines with seniors and so on. No matter your age, you can always try tai chi.
Related: The Health Benefits of Tai Chi
Yoga
Another of the top workout options for older adults is yoga, which also happens to be the best exercise for balance in seniors. It puts together stretching and strength practices to provide the best of both worlds, and it’s possible to pick classes and movements based on your ability – those with less movement might try something slow, while others can take on more.
Yoga is an ancient form of movement, and studies show that it can provide benefits like lowered blood pressure, easement of pain, reduced anxiety, and a defense against various forms of stress. It also moves the body in different ways and thus is a valuable form of working out for older adults who need something unique to retain their balance.
Related: The Different Types of Yoga
Water Aerobics
If you want a unique form of exercise that doesn’t have a dramatic impact on the body, water aerobics is an excellent way to go. If you have a membership to a community center, YMCA, or a local gym, they likely have a pool and a water aerobics program. Some locations require memberships while permitting you to sign up for the class individually.
If you have arthritis, water aerobics is a way to work out without putting too much strain on the body. You won’t get the terrible symptoms of putting pressure on the joints, which means a far better quality of life for those who participate. Plus, studies show that working out in the water has excellent benefits for your heart and minimal downsides.
Meditation Classes
Although it isn’t a traditional selection on the list of exercise programs for seniors, meditation classes are an excellent way to gather with other individuals and work out the mind. They allow focus, which is ideal if you don’t have too much mobility.
Meditation isn’t the same as a workout, like walking. However, meditation classes could be an excellent item to consider if you need a moment to relax during the week. Many community centers and YMCAs offer meditation course selections.
Walking
Walking is a classic form of movement, and it’s one of the most effective ways for seniors to work on their balance while raising their heart rate without completing anything too intense. According to one study, walking could lead to a lower risk of heart disease, reduction of risk for cancer and diabetes, lower cholesterol and blood pressure, and more.
Many favor walking because it’s simple and can happen anywhere. You can walk around your neighborhood, walk with a group of friends, or walk laps around the grocery store. You can even invest in a treadmill or walk on a treadmill at your local gym. “Classes”, in this case, would be a group of people who walk around an area, allowing communication and fun.
Stationary Bikes
Biking can be tricky for seniors, especially those who struggle with mobility, balance, and strength. Luckily, there’s the option to participate in stationary bike classes. In these group settings, individuals will strap into a row of bikes that remain in one place and cycle based on what an instructor dictates. Often, these classes happen to upbeat music.
You get the best of both worlds here. Senior adults get all the cardio of biking without running the risk of falling off and hitting the ground. Also, it’s a fun atmosphere that anyone will enjoy.
Resistance Bands
If you’re a senior adult who wants something even more low-key, try a resistance band class. All you need here is a single band and your body – it’s one of the most practical and least expensive selections on the workout market. You can shorten or lengthen the resistance band depending on the resistance you are looking for.
Also, if you love participating in resistance band classes, they’re cheap and affordable, and the workouts are simple to complete at home. Senior adults who want to take one more than what they learn in class can purchase one for themselves and try it at home.
Final Thoughts
There are ample exercise options available for senior adults. Some of the best exercise classes include tai chi, yoga, water aerobics, meditation, walking, stationary bikes, and resistance bands. Most local gyms, YMCAs, or community centers will have these classes available for a small fee or a membership.
We hope this information is valuable! If you’re an older adult who wants to work out, there are ample options to improve your mobility, balance, and overall quality of life. Also, you don’t have to stick with one – you can rotate through multiple activities throughout the week to keep your attention on working out for your health.
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