Senior Exercise

Diane Raver

February 07, 2007 08:55 am

— “Fitness is not about vanity anymore. It’s about keeping your body healthy for a good quality of life,” affirms Catrina Wilson, Southeastern Indiana YMCA, Batesville, yoga instructor.
As the population gets older, this is even more important; therefore, more activities are being provided for senior citizens that allow them to keep moving and continue with a healthy lifestyle.
The Southeastern Indiana YMCA has several programs geared toward this generation. “Silver Sneakers is a chair based aerobic class that uses small hand weights, rubber balls and stretch tubing to keep muscle strength, as well as flexibility,” states YMCA wellness director K.C. Conaway.
Wilson, who also instructs that class, says, “It’s entry level fitness courses .... regular people who are trying to be healthy. Many have never done anything like this before.
“A lot of them (senior citizens) grew up working hard. Now they do not have the opportunity to work their bodies like they used to. This (class) helps them get back to exercising and feeling good.”
Linda Pictor, Batesville, declares, “I had back surgery the first of September, and I need to get up and get moving.” She admits participating in this class is “better than staying home and watching TV.” Pictor also enjoys “getting out with people (because) it’s so fun.”
Silver Sneakers classes are Mondays at 10 a.m. and Thursdays at 1 p.m. According to Conaway and Wilson, These classes are available free of charge to YMCA members and Medicaid participants who have Humana Gold Insurance.
Several water classes of interest – arthritis, walking and aerobics – are also available at the YMCA. Conaway explains, “Due to exercising in the water, there’s less impact on their joints.” It’s a great way to expand friendships, he says.
The Rush County Senior Center also offers exercise programs open to anyone over the age of 50. Activities director Linda Biddle announces, “Those who participate say it keeps them young.”
Participants work out as they watch videotapes, which show people afflicted with arthritis and other ailments. They also show how exercising can help them feel better. “We have a 94-year-old who does not like to miss her exercise time,” Biddle reports.
Diane Hart, Greensburg YMCA chief executive officer, says, “We have some water exercise programs that are low impact.” Silver Sneakers classes also are offered. Hart says these classes “help with flexibility and overall strengthening.”
Conaway says there are many benefits for senior citizens if they engage in physical activities. “It will make like easier so they can take care of themselves and still play with their grandchildren.”

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