The number of seniors aged 55 and older is increasing dramatically.
Many of these seniors can remain active in their "golden years" and
need not resign themselves to a lifestyle of inactivity. Baby boomers
already know they can take an active role in maintaining and improving
their health through exercise. They have demanded that fitness
facilities have special classes, instructors and programs designed to
meet their needs.
From the year 2005-2025, the aging of the baby boomers will create
the quickest rise in the American older population. The baby boomers
have already looked into their health future and started their own
changes. They support government programs that promote healthy
lifestyles, enhanced fitness and safer living. They encourage
incentives offered by the insurance industry regarding prevention and
healthy living.
Baby boomers have different views regarding their advanced years
than one would expect. They have forged an identity of youth. They have
done this through effective use the media, business community and
government. Baby boomers are unwilling to accept a significant decline
in their physical functioning and will try any reasonable means to slow
the aging process. They have created a "fountain of youth" action plan
and conveyed a message to the health and fitness industry saying "give
us what we want"
The fitness focus for baby boomers is not one of "super
athleticism". Rather, their fitness concept is one that maintains and
improves the overall quality of life. They are looking for safe, low
impact exercise programs that enhance flexibility, cardiorespiratory
fitness, coordination, muscular strength and endurance, coordination
and balance.
The classes must also be able to address arthritis, diabetes,
osteoporosis, immune dysfunction, cardiorespiratory disease, cognitive
disorders and other age related illnesses. Programs must emphasize
functional ability versus body part training. Functional ability helps
prepare the individual for daily living.
The baby boomers have stated their case and taken control of their
bodies. They will not succumb to a life of inactivity and degeneration
as they age. They will make all necessary contacts on the outside to
help acheive their health and fitness goals. Their demand for classes
and activities specific to a senior's needs is already at an all time
high. New classes like chair aerobics, aqua exercise, mind body
classes, low impact, and walking classes are currently being offered.
Fitness centers- get ready! Your clients are already at your door.
About the Author
Dr. Lanny Schaffer is an Exercise Physiologist and the President of The
International Fitness Academy. For more savvy fitness information go to
http://www.aerobic-exercise-coach.com
