June 9, 2008 - At 5:30 a.m., every Monday through
Thursday, you can find Ann Arbor, Michigan, resident Joan Weir waiting
for the Ann Arbor Ice Cube Fitness Center’s doors to open so she can
begin her regular workout regimen. Yet when asked why the 72 year old
likes to exercise, her response is simple: She doesn’t.
Even though she may not love it, Weir understands
the importance of physical activity for her health—especially as she
ages. By working with a balance ball and walking on a treadmill, Weir
has maintained her strength and endurance as a gym member for the past
10 years.
Carol Warheit, wellness coordinator with
MFit, the
University of Michigan Health System’s health promotion division,
says that she sees many senior citizens like Weir who are regulars at
MFit’s Fitness Center. Some work out because of a doctor’s orders, many
exercise just to be healthy, and others come to the gym to socialize and
meet people. Suprisingly, almost 20 percent of MFit Fitness Center
members are age 70 or older.
Despite misconceptions some people have, such as
exercise will make them more tired or that it will hurt them, Warheit
says the benefits of physical activity for seniors are vast. Exercise
can act as a preventative measure or assist with treatment for many
conditions, such as high blood pressure, cholesterol and osteoporosis.
It can also slow the progressive decline that
occurs with inactivity and aging as it improves strength, endurance,
balance and flexibility. Working out regularly can also provide relief
from conditions such as arthritis and improve glucose control in
diabetics.
MFit offers an array of programs that can meet the
various needs of senior citizens.
Fit-Script, for example, is a medically-based exercise program for
people with a complex health history, chronic condition, or who have
completed cardiac or physical rehabilitation. Personal trainers also
work with seniors to focus on their specific needs—such as weight loss,
strength and balancing training, aerobic conditioning, or back care.
Warheit says that the most important thing is that
seniors get out there and exercise. But she suggests that senior
citizens wishing to begin a fitness program should first talk to a
doctor to learn the risks, restrictions and benefits related to their
specific circumstances.
“It is never too late to start an exercise program;
more damage can be done with a sedentary lifestyle than with an active
lifestyle. Use it or lose it, and don’t be afraid to try something new,”
she says. “Just ask a professional before you do it.”
And Weir agrees.
“I do believe exercise is good for you as you grow
older because— as we all know— the bones and muscles get weaker, and
they get older too,” she says. “I think older people will find there is
a difference once they begin to exercise. … So seniors: come out and try
it.”
The
MFit Fitness Center is located in the
Ann Arbor Ice Cube, 2121 Oak Valley Drive in Ann Arbor. Memberships
are available for three, six or 12 month periods. New members receive a
free orientation to introduce them to the facility’s cardiovascular
machines and strength circuit. MFit also offers a variety of exercise
and relaxation classes at various Ann Arbor locations as well as
personal training and an exercise program for people with special needs.
To learn more please visit
http://www.med.umich.edu/mfit/fitness.
For more information on senior citizens and
exercise, visit these Web sites:
