Seniors and Boomers, Ages 55 plus are the
fastest growing age band with over 10,000 people turning 55 each and every day! And, this year 2006, marks the first year that the mammoth age segment, the boomers, begin to turn 60.
"…recommends seniors be involved in programs that includes exercise for endurance, strength, flexibility and balance… i.e. all the components of yoga. "
Seniors and Boomers, Ages 55 plus are the fastest growing age band with over 10,000 people turning 55 each and every day! And, this year 2006, marks the first year that the mammoth age segment, the boomers, begin to turn 60.
Exercise is of paramount importance for people to maintain good health and independence as they age. The National Institute on Aging recommends seniors be involved in programs that includes exercise for endurance, strength, flexibility and balance… i.e. all the components of yoga. 
Improving Strength, Flexibility, and Balance
According to the institute, these components, working synergistically together, increase stamina, delay of prevent diabetes and colon cancer, heart disease and stroke. They increase metabolism for weight control and regulate blood sugar levels. Further, the weight bearing postures can help to prevent osteoporosis.
Stretch and balance work will prevent and assist in recovery from injuries and prevent falls that often lead to other disabilities and loss of independence. It will give them confidence in their everyday movements.
Lower the Risk of Alzheimer's
Of high concern to many aging Americans and their offspring, researchers have also found that seniors who engage in regular physical activity have a significantly lower risk of developing Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia.
I was so moved by these facts that I developed a yoga program specifically for seniors called Senior YogaFit . It was also developed to provide training for current fitness instructors to learn new methods to meet the needs of the now largest age group in our history.
Seniors who have been active through their lives are seeking programs that continue to challenge them, yet honor their aging bodies. Seniors who have been sedentary are discovering the need to exercise as they grow older and desire continued comfort and ability.
Senior YogaFit offers a variety of opportunities for the variety of seniors in our communities. Senior can now begin to offer this method of exercise in their communities, knowing it meets all industry standards.
About Beth Shaw
Go to About
Beth Shaw for her bio and more articles by her.
Back to More Articles About Mind Body Fitness
021606
|