SilverSneakers, Mercy Health for Life offer chance to jump into fitness

Thursday, June 21, 2012

Proper nutrition and adequate physical activity are important at any age and can play a critical role in people's lives as they age.

Millions of older adults are taking stock of their health and hitting the gym to get the physical activity they need to stave off chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, colon cancer and high blood pressure, a news release said. Regular physical activity has beneficial effects on most organ systems, helping to prevent a broad range of health problems and diseases.

Activities that can help build muscle strength, improve balance and promote walking significantly reduce falls in older people, the release said.

Whether you enjoy walking on the treadmill, riding the stationary bike or taking group exercise classes, like those available through the Healthways SilverSneakers Fitness Program, it's important to keep moving.

If you are new to exercise or haven't exercised in a long time, consult your physician before starting a program.

Following are some tips for staying active:

* Engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate activity, such as brisk walking, on five or more days.

* Include strength training exercises in your regular workouts at least twice a week to improve and maintain muscular strength and endurance.

* Make sure physical activities that enhance and maintain flexibility are part of your routine.

* If you have difficulty with your mobility, perform moderate amounts of low-impact activities such as swimming, water exercises or stretching.

* Gentle forms of yoga and tai chi help to promote flexibility, improve balance and increase strength.

The SilverSneakers Fitness Program has been proven to reduce health care costs by improving the health and well-being of members, helping them become active and motivating them to stay that way, the release said.

With the SilverSneakers premier network, members have access to a variety of participating locations throughout the country, including Mercy Health for Life fitness center.

Health for Life also offers fitness classes such as yoga, Arthritics in Action, Zumba, dance cardio ffitness, spin bike and cardio circuit.

Equipment also includes individual TV monitors on all cardio equipment.

To find out if you are eligible for SilverSneakers, contact your health plan or stop by Health for Life at 405 Woodland Hills Blvd. in Fort Scott.

For more information on the program, call toll-free 1-888-423-4632, or visit www.silversneakers.com.