In today’s modern era, people are living longer, more fulfilling lives, with each new day being an opportunity to maintain and even grow their healthy lifestyle. Staying active is a key to leading a long, happy life, and seniors shouldn’t be discouraged for having less stamina or strength than in their youth.
“Exercise is crucial to the health and well-being of seniors,” said Kimberly Halladay, a fitness instructor at Wesley Enhanced Living Main Line. “Despite the limitations that inevitably come with the aging process, exercise can really improve quality of life. Gentle range-of-motion exercises increase joint flexibility. Weight training improves muscle and joint strength and promotes bone growth. Cardiovascular workouts improves heart and lung health and boosts production of feel-good endorphins.”
Let the New Year usher in a new you. There is no better time to start a new, active lifestyle than now. Halladay recommends, “Start slow and stay consistent. Ask questions and try different activities. Exercise has so many physical and emotional health benefits. Moving the body actively engages your brain, too.”
Don’t feel like going it alone? There is always the option to get involved in group fitness classes; “The social aspect of attending classes with a friend is so important, especially for seniors,” said Halladay. “They keep each other accountable. We have seen many friendships form among WEL Main Line residents who meet each other at classes, in the pool or our strength training room. It’s nice to see folks who may otherwise be alone come out and accomplish things together with other members of our community. They come to class early and stay late just to chat, catch up and connect.”
Wesley Enhanced Living Main Line offers a wide variety of group classes that make working out fun:
- Seated stretch and strengthening classes in partnership with the Arthritis Foundation
- Balance and line dancing
- Cardio flex and press that includes easy aerobics with strength and balance components
- Seated yoga
- Seated Tai Chi and meditation
Or, enjoy WEL’s indoor pool and take advantage of:
- Aqua Zumba
- Aqua ballet
- Aqua exercises in partnership with the Arthritis Foundation
- One-on-one training
WEL Main Line also has a top-notch strength training room where residents can work one-on-one with fitness professionals. Residents receive personalized assessments and workout routines to meet the needs of each individual. Make 2016 the year to get active and enjoy the benefits of a healthy body for years to come.
If you’re interested in learning more about Wesley Enhanced Living Main Line and the community’s fitness programs and classes, visit wel.org or call 610-353-7660 today
