by Bill Ness on December 16, 2011
With the New Year right around the corner, many people are turning their thoughts toward healthy resolutions such as improving their fitness. Fortunately there are many exercises which active adults can use to get in shape without putting excessive strain on their bodies.
by Bill Ness on October 3, 2011
From the time active adult communities first began to gain popularity, they were often designed to include exercise rooms with treadmills and weight-lifting machines. However, today’s newest age-restricted communities have replaced the concept of a basic exercise room with massive, state-of-the-art fitness centers. These impressive facilities rival public fitness centers with a wide range of equipment, classes and amenities.
by Susan Quilty on May 2, 2011
Spring is a time of new beginnings, and that often translates into a renewed dedication to getting back in shape with regular exercise. But before you dust off your running shoes and head out for a jog, it may be a good idea to consider some other low-impact alternatives.
by Susan Quilty on December 17, 2010
While tennis has long been a favorite pastime for active adults, pickleball is quickly gaining popularity at 55+ communities. In new communities, pickleball courts are a common addition to the amenities offered at the central clubhouse or recreation center. Yet in older communities, existing tennis courts are sometimes converted for pickleball use.
by Susan Quilty on October 18, 2010
California is known for its beaches, wine regions and celebrity hot spots. However, residents know that it is also a state that boasts miles and miles of hiking trails. This makes it easy for anyone to add hiking to their regular weekly routine. Avid hikers can discover their own favorite trails in both state and local parks, or even within the borders of some large active adult communities.
by Susan Quilty on October 1, 2010
For many active adults, walking is great way to stay in shape, lose weight or even manage a chronic health condition. When walking with a buddy or part of a walking club, this great activity can also be a good way to socialize and reach shared goals. Walking can even help raise awareness (and money) for your favorite charity. Walking is a low-impact exercise that has many health benefits and few risks, especially when done properly.
by Susan Quilty on August 27, 2010
Yoga is an ancient form of exercise that has found its way into our modern, American lifestyles. This highly adaptive practice offers a wealth of benefits, including increased strength, flexibility and mental clarity. With so many benefits, its no wonder that active adult communities throughout the country have embraced yoga programs.
by Susan Quilty on August 20, 2010
Flexibility, strength and mental clarity are all important elements of golf. They are also three of the benefits achieved through regular yoga practice. Given this, its no wonder that yoga is becoming a popular form of golf fitness training. Today it’s easier than ever to start a yoga routine thanks to its surge in popularity. Yoga classes can be found at gyms, through local park district programs and at active adult communities.
by Susan Quilty on August 13, 2010
Though often considered a luxury spa treatment, massage therapy offers many health benefits. It relaxes the mind and body, reduces stress, boosts the immune system, and can even help manage anxiety and depression. The many benefits of massage are ideal for active adults. There are several types of massage available, each with its own particular style and focus.
by Susan Quilty on August 6, 2010
Swimming is a great low-impact exercise for those of nearly any fitness level. It burns calories, builds muscle, increases cardiovascular endurance, and improves flexibility. Swimming is also relaxing and fun. It’s no wonder that many active adult communities include lap pools or resort-style pool and spa areas.
by Susan Quilty on July 30, 2010
Bocce, a game with roots that go back to ancient times, has taken its place alongside horseshoe pits and shuffleboard courts to become a favorite recreational pastime at active adult communities throughout America. In addition to being fun to play, the benefits of bocce ball include healthy social interaction, light activity, strategic planning, and friendly competition.
by Susan Quilty on July 9, 2010
Water aerobics classes are often offered at active adult communities, yet preconceptions may keep some residents from signing up. Despite their popularity with older adults, water aerobics classes are not just for senior citizens. Healthy active adults can enjoy this low-impact activity as another beneficial aspect of their normal exercise routine. Water aerobics classes are easy on joints, great for meeting new people, and they are a lot of fun.
by Susan Quilty on July 2, 2010
Today’s active adults are interested in recreational activities that let them socialize while staying in shape. Tennis is a non-contact sport that is popular at many active adults communities for its social, physical and mental aspects. While anyone can see that this sport builds strength and stamina, it also exercises mental clarity as players make quick on-court decisions.
by Susan Quilty on June 4, 2010
Though its practice appears deceptively simple, the exploration tai chi helps active adults learn to slow down, clear their minds and reduce stress. It can also improve flexibility, balance, strength and stamina. Tai chi is not difficult to learn, and it is an ideal exercise to perform with a group. This, along with its many health benefits, make tai chi a perfect fit in an active adult community.
by Susan Quilty on April 23, 2010
Millions of active adults suffer from varying degrees of arthritis, and conflicting as it may seem, activity may be both a cause and part of the treatment. While there is no actual cure for arthritis, the subsequent pain can often be lessened with certain lifestyle changes. Active adult communities offer many support options when it comes to this very common affliction.