Resources - Mature Market Headlines

Baby Boomers Keep Healthy with Senior Fitness Classes

The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, 7/3/08

Abstract:

Whether she's marching to "Copacabana" or dancing to "She's a Lady," Elaine Buttenfield keeps herself active.

A member of the Ross Senior Fitness Class for two years, she's made a choice -- and not just to boogie oogie oogie until she just can't boogie no more.

"We have chosen to be active," said Buttenfield, 64, of Ross.

As ailments, such as bursitis and arthritis, sideline baby boomers, senior fitness is becoming a more specialized area. Community centers are reaching out to the older set, offering fitness classes from Zumba and aerobics to line dancing and yoga.

Programs generally are offered to both residents and nonresidents of their respective communities. In Monroeville, fitness-minded people 50 and older meet each Monday and Friday to keep themselves moving. They start with a 30-minute aerobic workout to upbeat music ranging from techno versions of one-hit wonders to patriotic tunes, which is followed by a series of resistance exercises...

...Regular exercise helps prevent bone loss, which reduces the risk of fractures, while increasing muscle strength. Balance and coordination exercises can help decrease the likelihood of falling.

> Read the full story > Return to 50+ Headlines