Group Fitness For Seniors – What’s Out There?

It’s estimated that by 2042, the number of Australian’s aged 65 and over will increase to 6.2 million, from around 2.5 million in 2002*. Although policy makers are quick to point out the economic implications of an ageing population, at the same time, for the fitness industry, it’s a gold mine. Baby boomers rank as the largest growing segment of the population and aren’t the sort that’ll sit back and take it easy – far from it! Seniors have more time on their hands than their younger counterparts and are also well informed about the benefits of living an active lifestyle.

So what’s out there for baby boomers and beyond? Aqua aerobics classes have long been the ‘go-to’ group exercise class for seniors. And rightly so, as they provide a perfect exercise environment for those who may be experiencing joint pain or other physical ailments that affect range of movement and who find it difficult to do land based activities. There are also myriad gentle exercise classes incorporating low impact moves and circuit type formats that are offered in leisure and community centres around the country. Here are a few specifically designed programs that may be beneficial to introduce into your club or centre if you don’t already have them.

Zumba GOLD®

Who said that shaking your booty was only for young things? No matter at what stage of life, no one is left behind when it comes to the Zumba® party train. Zumba GOLD® follows the Latin fitness-party theme and is geared to baby boomers who want to have fun grooving to zesty Latin tunes like salsa, merengue, cumbia and reggaeton. The modified moves are easy-to-follow allowing participants to move at their own pace, so it’s well suited to active older adults and those starting out on their fitness journey.

www.zumba.com

BODYVIVE™

Les Mills realised several years ago that the world’s population is ageing and offering a group exercise program for this demographic is just as important as offering RPM™ for cycle lovers. The 55-minute low impact class integrates aerobic exercise for heart fitness, resistance training for strength and stability, and stretching and mobility work. It’s aimed at the 40s, 50s and 60s market that are active and like the varied exercise options. The use of VIVE™ balls and VIVE™ tubes keeps it interesting and body weight exercises boosts fitness and core strength. A great class to help achieve overall general wellness.

www.lesmills.com

Tai Chi

In China it’s hard not to notice the early risers practicing the ‘soft’ martial art of Tai Chi, developed by the ancient Chinese. Tai Chi works on strengthening and balancing Qi and is an effective activity for promoting health and wellbeing, improving posture, flexibility and strength. According to scientific studies, Tai Chi is touted as a healing tool for a range of disorders such as arthritis, heart disease and stress related conditions. Generally, classes are suitable for all levels, but usually are run over an 8 to 10 week term so participants can learn and build on the moves and sequences.

www.taichiaustralia.com.au
www.livingchi.com.au

Heartmoves

Marketed more for older adults with health conditions, the Heart Foundation initiative, ‘Heartmoves’, provides a gentle exercise program that’s also good for people easing back into exercise. The program focuses on strength, flexibility, fitness, co-ordination and balance, and is delivered in a way to create a fun and friendly atmosphere. Safe for those with stable long-term health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes or obesity, as instructors undergo a Heartmoves Leader Training Course to ensure the safety guidelines are adhered to. Heartmoves has been around for about 12 years and is endorsed by GPs and health teams and has a strong referral system in place.

www.heartmoves.heartfoundation.org.au

*www.demographics.treasury.gov.au/content/_download/australias_demographic_challenges/html/adc-04.asp

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