Water Exercise for Seniors
Water Exercise for Seniors
For those with bone, muscle, or joint troubles, the warmth, buoyancy, and resistance of the water supposedly challenges the body while easing strain on problematic areas. "Over a period of time," she says, "people see things like a decrease in pain, improved daily function, and improved perceived quality of life."
Even people who don't have access to a local pool can enjoy these benefits. The Arthritis Foundation offers a video on how to safely and effectively exercise in a spa or a hot tub. For more information about the video and to find the nearest AF aquatic class near you, call 1-800-283-7800 or log on to www.arthritis.org.
Swimming three to four times a week has helped Patricia feel healthier and more coordinated. In the water, she doesn't feel any pain, even though she suffered a major back injury from an accident a few years before. Now almost 60 years old, she has more energy than ever, and is "having a blast" teaching high-schoolers.
Patricia plans to continue her water workouts. In fact, she's signed up for two more AARP relays with her sisters this year. The events have also given them the chance to be alone for the first time in 30 years. Last year, they were so excited about being together, they had facials and makeup done, and got uniforms for the triathlon.
The story is remarkable, but it is only one of many that show the life-changing effect of exercise.
"It's important to choose activities that you enjoy," advises Margaret Hawkins, Campaign Manager of Health for the AARP. "Search for that activity and make it a habit."
"It is never too late to introduce physical activity in life," says Chodzko-Zajko. And the AARP knows that. The oldest swimmer at one of their TriUmph Classics last year was 83.
Water Exercise for Seniors
Aquatic Classes for the Masses continued...
For those with bone, muscle, or joint troubles, the warmth, buoyancy, and resistance of the water supposedly challenges the body while easing strain on problematic areas. "Over a period of time," she says, "people see things like a decrease in pain, improved daily function, and improved perceived quality of life."
Even people who don't have access to a local pool can enjoy these benefits. The Arthritis Foundation offers a video on how to safely and effectively exercise in a spa or a hot tub. For more information about the video and to find the nearest AF aquatic class near you, call 1-800-283-7800 or log on to www.arthritis.org.
A Life-Changing Habit
Swimming three to four times a week has helped Patricia feel healthier and more coordinated. In the water, she doesn't feel any pain, even though she suffered a major back injury from an accident a few years before. Now almost 60 years old, she has more energy than ever, and is "having a blast" teaching high-schoolers.
Patricia plans to continue her water workouts. In fact, she's signed up for two more AARP relays with her sisters this year. The events have also given them the chance to be alone for the first time in 30 years. Last year, they were so excited about being together, they had facials and makeup done, and got uniforms for the triathlon.
The story is remarkable, but it is only one of many that show the life-changing effect of exercise.
"It's important to choose activities that you enjoy," advises Margaret Hawkins, Campaign Manager of Health for the AARP. "Search for that activity and make it a habit."
"It is never too late to introduce physical activity in life," says Chodzko-Zajko. And the AARP knows that. The oldest swimmer at one of their TriUmph Classics last year was 83.