Our LifePro Return to Fitness Class Series is a 6 week fitness class series specifically designed for older adults, aimed at improving physical health, mobility, strength, balance, flexibility, and overall well-being. These classes are tailored to the unique needs of older adults, taking into account age-related changes in strength, coordination, and flexibility, while also addressing the risk of falls, chronic conditions, and the importance of maintaining independence. These classes are held in a group setting, which can offer a sense of community and support as participants share similar experiences.* This fitness series was developed and supervised by an orthopedic pelvic physical therapist (PT) and is designed to help bridge the gap between recovery and returning to a workout routine.
*These classes may be held on an individual basis if requested.
Here’s what you might expect from our LifePro classes:
Focus on Functional Fitness
- The exercises are designed to improve everyday functional movements, such as walking, sitting down, standing up, reaching, and lifting. This helps older adults maintain independence and carry out daily activities safely and efficiently.
- Examples of functional exercises include:
- Squats or sit-to-stand movements (to help with getting in and out of chairs)
- Step-ups (to help with climbing stairs)
- Balance exercises (e.g., standing on one leg)
- Weight-bearing exercises (to support bone health)
Emphasis on Balance and Fall Prevention
- Stability is a key component to help prevent falls, a major concern for older adults. Strengthening muscles around the ankles, hips, and core can also improve stability and reduce the risk of falls.
Strength Training
- Muscle strengthening exercises help to combat the natural loss of muscle mass that comes with aging, known as sarcopenia. Strengthening muscles helps with mobility and improves posture, coordination, and overall strength.
- Resistance training might involve light weights, resistance bands, or bodyweight exercises like chair squats, bicep curls, or wall push-ups.
Cardiovascular Health
- Moderate-intensity cardio exercises are included to improve heart health, endurance, and circulation. These could include walking, light jogging, cycling, or low-impact aerobics.
Flexibility and Range of Motion
- Stretching and flexibility exercises are incorporated to help maintain joint health, improve mobility, and reduce stiffness.
- Gentle stretching routines may focus on areas commonly affected by aging, such as the hips, hamstrings, shoulders, and lower back. This can help maintain the range of motion, reduce the risk of injury, and enhance posture.
Low to Moderate Intensity
- Our older adult fitness classes are typically designed to be low to moderate intensity to accommodate varying fitness levels. They are structured in a way that participants can work at their own pace, adjusting the exercises as needed.
- Classes often offer progressive intensity so participants can gradually increase their fitness level while staying within a safe and comfortable range.
Social Interaction and Support
- Our classes foster a sense of community and promote mental health by allowing participants to connect with others who share similar goals.
- Our classes have a supportive, non-judgmental environment, making it easier for individuals to stay motivated and encouraged.
Adaptability
- These classes can be adapted for a wide range of fitness levels, from beginners to those with more experience. The exercises are often easily modified depending on any physical limitations, past injuries, or chronic health conditions like arthritis, diabetes, or heart disease.
Considerations:
- Your therapist will conduct a 30 minute virtual intake to understand your current fitness level and needs. They will also screen you to ensure you are cleared to participate in unrestricted physical activity in a small group setting.
- Since this is a small group fitness series, it is not recommended for individuals with significant mobility restrictions or balance deficits. These individuals may be best suited to a one-on-one class or participate in physical therapy services if medically necessary
Cost
- 1 session per week: $385
- 2 sessions per week: $685
