These days, most people recognize that leading an active lifestyle, one that includes a regular exercise regimen, can have a tremendous impact on the well-being of older adults, leading to long-term benefits and improved health.
There are numerous statistics that back up the benefits of exercise. According to a report from the U.S. Surgeon General, people who lead inactive lives are twice as likely to develop heart disease than their active counterparts, and are also more likely to experience more hospital visits, hospitalizations and medicines.
While programs tailored to the needs and expectations of the Baby Boomer generation have made some inroads in the number of adults that exercise regularly, there are still some that are hesitant to start.
Most experts note that exercising does not have to be strenuous to be beneficial. The National Institute of Health recommends that older adults start exercising slowly, and that those who are at high risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease or diabetes check with their doctors first.
Low-impact activities, such as walking, can do the trick. But seniors can do just about any exercise. The key is adapting the type of exercise, whatever it may be, to the abilities of the participant.
Elaine Bryan, a registered yoga teacher who leads a class for people over 50 at Carlsbad Village and Yoga, said practicing yoga can help to relieve the stiffness that happens to the body over the course of life.
"Sitting around can cause muscles to shorten, tighten up and also become weak," said Bryan. "Yoga can help by lengthening the muscles as well as making them strong again. If we are not active as we grow older, we tend to experience bone density loss, increased muscle weakness, poorer circulation, and loss of balance and flexibility. Yoga is extremely beneficial as we age and has been shown to slow, and even reverse, the aging process."
Bryan said that those who might have the misconception that they will be forced to put their feet behind their heads can rest assured: there are many different styles and types of yoga, and finding a yoga class that fits your needs is important.
"If you are new to yoga and a little intimidated, then practicing yoga with those in your same situation and age group is a great place to start," she said. "With the attention from an experienced yoga teacher to assist you with your particular health and injury concerns, you will be set up for success."
The Carlsbad Senior Center, for example, offers a variety of courses may surprise those with misconceptions about what senior fitness could be.
The center's offerings vary from Zumba to PiYo (a blend of pilates and yoga) and from pingpong to Hawaiian dance.
The center hosts a class or activity to suit every interest each and every day. You can also work out own pace and at a time that is convenient for you with a membership to the Carlsbad Senior Center's fitness room. The gym offers new equipment in a clean, low-stress environment and friendly staff and volunteers to ensure your experience is safe and enjoyable.
There are numerous statistics that back up the benefits of exercise. According to a report from the U.S. Surgeon General, people who lead inactive lives are twice as likely to develop heart disease than their active counterparts, and are also more likely to experience more hospital visits, hospitalizations and medicines.
While programs tailored to the needs and expectations of the Baby Boomer generation have made some inroads in the number of adults that exercise regularly, there are still some that are hesitant to start.
Most experts note that exercising does not have to be strenuous to be beneficial. The National Institute of Health recommends that older adults start exercising slowly, and that those who are at high risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease or diabetes check with their doctors first.
Low-impact activities, such as walking, can do the trick. But seniors can do just about any exercise. The key is adapting the type of exercise, whatever it may be, to the abilities of the participant.
Elaine Bryan, a registered yoga teacher who leads a class for people over 50 at Carlsbad Village and Yoga, said practicing yoga can help to relieve the stiffness that happens to the body over the course of life.
"Sitting around can cause muscles to shorten, tighten up and also become weak," said Bryan. "Yoga can help by lengthening the muscles as well as making them strong again. If we are not active as we grow older, we tend to experience bone density loss, increased muscle weakness, poorer circulation, and loss of balance and flexibility. Yoga is extremely beneficial as we age and has been shown to slow, and even reverse, the aging process."
Bryan said that those who might have the misconception that they will be forced to put their feet behind their heads can rest assured: there are many different styles and types of yoga, and finding a yoga class that fits your needs is important.
"If you are new to yoga and a little intimidated, then practicing yoga with those in your same situation and age group is a great place to start," she said. "With the attention from an experienced yoga teacher to assist you with your particular health and injury concerns, you will be set up for success."
The Carlsbad Senior Center, for example, offers a variety of courses may surprise those with misconceptions about what senior fitness could be.
The center's offerings vary from Zumba to PiYo (a blend of pilates and yoga) and from pingpong to Hawaiian dance.
The center hosts a class or activity to suit every interest each and every day. You can also work out own pace and at a time that is convenient for you with a membership to the Carlsbad Senior Center's fitness room. The gym offers new equipment in a clean, low-stress environment and friendly staff and volunteers to ensure your experience is safe and enjoyable.