The 25th of May may be National Senior Health and Fitness Day! Many organizations across the country are encouraging “Exercise and have better health and a Better Day.”
Does exercise help you to have a better day? Imagine a time that you were low, exhausted and stressed, or even bored. Going for a run, walk, or an easy stroll around your home a few times will make you feel happier. When you exercise your body releases chemical known as endorphins. Endorphins are able to interact with receptors of your brain, which reduce the sensation of pain. The endorphins generated by movement create an emotional sensation in your body, making you feel more relaxed.
Seniors can benefit in a variety of ways through exercise. This includes lower risk of falling and a greater capacity of living independently maintaining the strength of joints and muscles aiding in reducing blood pressure as well as strengthening your heart lower chance for colon cancer, diabetes, and joints swelling from arthritis; easing anxiety and stress symptoms as well as a sense of connection and companionship when exercise is done in groups. These are just a few of the benefits of being active.
There are many ways to participate in organisations that you are a part of or create your own entertainment to commemorate National Senior Health and Fitness Day. There are many activities that can be modified to accommodate any limitations. Here are some suggestions to help you move:
• Visit the park. The parks and recreation departments offer the perfect opportunity for older adults to enjoy the outdoors. There are a myriad of wonderful trails and walking parks within Jefferson City, such as the Katy Trail; Runge Nature Center and the Greenway and the McKay, Riverside, Memorial or Binder Parks on Lakes.
• Attend an exercise class or gym What better method of celebrating National Senior Health and Fitness Day than attending an exercise class or fitness class with fellow senior citizens? The presence of an instructor who will show proper techniques to avoid injuries will help you feel more comfortable in doing. When you do this with an entire group of participants increases motivation and boosts enthusiasm.
• Work in the garden Gardening is a relaxing pastime which promotes fitness and health. Set up a garden bed, or pot that is filled with fresh herbs and produce. You can take gardening to the next level by growing your own crop or purchasing at the local grocer. Then, prepare a delicious meal using fresh vegetables that are packed with nutrients that nourish your body. This will allow you to maintain an active way of life.
• Dance Get up as you dance along to beat. No matter if you’ve signed up for the Zumba class or sitting in at home in your home kitchen There are endless options in dancing since it can be performed virtually anyplace. Find a beat make a plan, get a partner and have a blast dancing.
• Schedule a health check-up In addition to being active, take a proactive approach in your health. The scheduling of a health check ensures that seniors are aware about their health, and gives them the chance to take preventative actions that may depend on the medical results and the discussions with a healthcare expert.
National Senior Health and Fitness Day is only an hour away! It’s a week away! Sam B. Cook Healthplex Fitness Center will be celebrating the day with an open facility between 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. April 25. We offer a secure comfortable and friendly atmosphere to all who visit. Our walking track and cardio area, as well as our strengthening machines/free weights, and fitness classes for groups are made to accommodate people with different backgrounds. We pride ourselves in providing you with an experienced staff who will assist you in helping train for an improved day and healthier health.
Kay Benward is an exercise specialist and director in the Sam B. Cook Healthplex Fitness Center. She has been at Capital Region Medical Center for 30 years and has inspired numerous people to lead healthier lives through fitness. She continues to instruct classes and loves educating the older adult to improve their stability, posture and functional strength, as in educating her staff, clients and the public about exercising as medicine.
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