Staying in shape is not only good for beach bodies. The older a person becomes, the more important it is to stay physically active.
At least, that’s what Martha Tooley, program developer at the Edna Burton Senior Center, believes.
‘It’s very important for seniors to exercise,? Tooley said. ‘You can’t just diet, you have to be active.?
The center makes that easier. Yoga classes take place at 1 p.m. on Mondays at the senior center, and a body movement class that is similar to the popular Body Recall program.
‘It’s slow, steady movement. It can be on a chair or standing,? the program developer said.
According to Body Recall’s website, the class involves movement props beyond chairs. Workouts include work on foam balls and balloons. No equipment is required.
Jessica Arundel of In Motion Anytime, 4 N. Ortonville Road, said body movement is vital in old age.
The instructor teaches a senior citizen exercise class at In Motion on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
‘We focus on balance work and range of motion,? Arundel said. ‘Anything to keep those joints lubed up.?
Arundel said resistance training with bands and light weights is a good exercise for the seniors in her class, who range in age from their late 60s to 95.
‘I had a lady come who could hardly tap her toes, but after a few weeks, she’s moving much better,? the instructor said.
Tooley said it is also important to think outside of the box when it comes to staying active.
‘We have a line dancing class on Friday afternoons, too,? she said. ‘When people think of exercise, it’s not just on a treadmill. Dancing is a great form of exercise because it’s not just the body, it’s the mind. You have to remember those steps.?
Arundel said she enjoys working with seniors because of the importance of the movement they’re doing.
‘These people aren’t vain,? she said. ‘They’re not trying to lose 5 pounds. They’re just trying to keep moving.?