Exercise for Seniors
What activities are most suitable for the older generation?
You may feel over the hill if you are hitting your 50s, 60s and 70s, but most of us are still capable of exercising and being fit. And of course, it goes without saying that to keep the pounds off, exercising as you get older is essential – nobody’s metabolism speeds up as they age! So what kind of activities are available for seniors?
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Over 50 Fitness Classes
Most local borough run gyms run classes that are exercise to music for the older generation. Called Primetime in Oxford, the class focuses more on improving strength, balance and posture, and less on cardio exercise. Local borough councils also run health walks, where you can participate in sociable walks of a mile or so. Check out your local council – most have websites and/or leisure officers to chat to - to see what is on offer.
Fitness League Classes
Devised in 1930, Fitness League Classes predate many modern ideas about fitness and are still popular today. The Fitness League technique is part dance, part exercise that energises and strengthens the whole body. Classes are about 1.5 hours and are based on yoga, remedial health exercises and dance.
“We have ladies in their 80s doing classes,” says Margaret Peggie, chair of the Fitness League. Fitnessleague.com has further details. Classes cost £4-5.
Bowling
A gentle pastime, focusing on sociability as well as hand/eye coordination, both men and women’s bowling is a hugely popular summer activity. You need to be moderately fit, as there is some bending involved, but it is very easy on the rest of the body, so can provide a very useful way of keeping active. See fedbowls.co.uk for more details.
Aqua Classes
Jonathan Colbourne from Esporta, a leading private gym chain, says: “Aqua aerobics is popular with the older generation.” Exercising in water is helpful on joints in general, and faster classes like aqua aerobics are great for burning calories.
Gym Tips for Seniors
“Gyms are designed for younger people, so make sure you take in your own music,” says Ian Turrell, a personal trainer from Newcastle. “Focus on longer warm-ups and stretching before doing any cardio or weights. If your joints are a problem, avoid cardio machines that have repetitive grinding movements on the knees - like elliptical cross trainers. Watch out for exercises that are high impact like treadmill running, this can cause back pains and play havoc with the hips, knees and ankles as they bear the body's weight. If in any doubt, discuss your exercise plans with your GP – he should be able to advise you about what to do if you have high blood pressure.”
And the last word from TV’s Green Goddess Diana Moran, who says: "It's never too late to start exercising. You don't have to go to the gym, but you do have to become more active. So get up off your bottom and simply walk yourself to better health!"
Where to go next? Check out ramblers.org.uk if your passion is walking.
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