Getting the daily recommended amount of exercise can be difficult on your own. Whether you need a boost of encouragement or simply enjoy having someone to socialize with, having an exercise partner has become popular. A recent study found that 95 percent of people who started a new health and fitness routine with a friend completed the program. Group exercise has also been linked to better progress and greater health advantages, such as:
Exercising with like-minded people that encourage and motivate you can have a huge impact on personal results. The positive energy that comes from those around you having fun and doing their best may provide that extra boost to keep on moving. Add in some upbeat music and an energetic instructor and watch your strength, endurance and energy-levels climb with each class.
Additional studies suggest that group exercise and team activities produce a higher level of endorphins. Endorphins are known as the brain’s “feel-good” chemical. Group settings can also provide a chance to have fun, laugh and see a new side of people. Everyone enters with different fitness levels and abilities: Getting the most out of these activities means allowing yourself to be vulnerable and open to new things. Watch relationships grow with a little friendly competition and fun challenges!
For seniors, a true sense of purpose is impactful. Research tells us that seniors with a sense of purpose in life are less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease, mild cognitive impairment, disabilities, heart attacks or strokes, and more likely to live longer than people without this kind of underlying motivation. Along with providing a sense of accomplishment and control, making your physical health first can create a strong sense of purpose.
It’s harder to skip out on an activity when other people are expecting you to attend; the same goes for a group activity like a group exercise class for seniors. You have others to hold you accountable. This increases the chances that you will get out and keep participating. Even better, make some friends in the class. Integrating your social calendar with your self-care routine reduces feelings of depression, anxiety, loneliness and isolation.
On the first Friday of every month our Fun Managers will put on a song that gets residents, visitors and staff moving and grooving. Along with being fun and engaging, dancing is an enjoyable way to exercise.
Fun Manager from Seasons Amherstburg, Jenn says, “I love incorporating music and dance into our programs. Residents love when I take song requests. Certain tunes bring back such great memories. I do my best moves and sing along because when I’m smiling, residents are smiling back!”
The TGIF Dance Break has been added to the company-wide initiative called Kickin’ It Up. Starting in 2017, the program’s goal is to get our residents moving more. We provide education, exciting planned activities daily, and incentives to encourage involvement, like “Bring a Friend to Exercise.” Keeping out residents fit and active in order to live longer and healthier lives is important to us at Seasons.
Please consult your doctor for personalized medical advice.
Book a personal tour today and decide if Seasons is the right fit for you or a loved one.