Can SilverSneakers Fitness for Seniors Really Help You Live Longer?
Exercise. You know you need to stay physically active to benefit both body and mind. You might even know regular exercise decreases the risk of conditions like heart disease and stroke. But getting started can be difficult! SilverSneakers Fitness for Seniors can be one of the best choices to make if you’re wanting to up your fitness routine in 2023!
Regardless of what’s been stopping you, now is the time to make a change and increase your physical activity. The good news is that, depending on your Medicare plan, you may have access to SilverSneakers—a comprehensive, fun fitness program for seniors.
What is SilverSneakers?
SilverSneakers is all about fitness and wellness for seniors age 65+ with classes, gym passes, nutritional advice and discounts on fitness equipment. Don’t worry if you haven’t worked out in a while, SilverSneakers targets all fitness levels. And with options for in-person and online classes, there’s truly something for everyone. There’s even an easy-to-use app to help you stay organized and on track with your fitness goals!
Your SilverSneakers account gives you access to more than 15,000 fitness locations across the country. If you feel like the gym isn’t the place for you anymore, don’t! Studies show that seniors who use a plan-sponsored health club benefit to visit the gym at least twice a week experience lower in-patient admissions and lower overall healthcare costs.
Silversneakers Fitness for Seniors Perk #1: You don’t even have to leave the house!
If you’re more comfortable working out at home, there are dozens of online classes offered each day—all tailored to seniors’ specific needs. Classes are low-impact and focus on building endurance, strength, flexibility and balance. You can find any home props you need, like a yoga ball or foam roller, on Senior.com.
At-home yoga is especially popular on SilverSneakers. Tune in to an online class and work out in real-time with other seniors across the country. Or click over to the on-demand library and fit in your workout whenever you have time. The benefits of yoga include increased lung capacity, improved balance, easing arthritis symptoms and strengthening core muscle groups. (Check out How Yoga Benefits Seniors here.)
If you don’t yet have the tools you need for yoga, start by choosing a mat from Senior.com. We like the Pro Fitness Mat or Reversible Fitness Mat. Either one will help you make the most of your practice!
What if SilverSneakers isn’t for me?
If SilverSneakers isn’t for you, you can still find support for your fitness goals. Roku is a senior-friendly streaming device that has several different Health & Wellness channels. Even YouTube has a seemingly endless supply of wellness classes for seniors.
Walking is a low-impact and fun way to get outside and active. (Learn about intentional walking here.) But if mobility is an issue, tai chi and swimming are great choices to improve your balance and flexibility while resting and restoring your mind. And limited mobility doesn’t mean yoga is off the table. Many yoga poses can be done from a chair. (Here are 5 Simple Reasons People Choose Chair Yoga for Exercise.) Wherever you are with your fitness goals, SilverSneakers will help you achieve them. Contact your agent today to learn if SilverSneakers is part of your plan already, or if there’s a better fit plan for you that includes this valuable program.
At My Senior Health Plan, our mission is to empower Medicare beneficiaries with comprehensive guidance and support. With our specialized expertise, we ensure that you make informed decisions about your healthcare coverage, allowing you to maximize your benefits and achieve peace of mind. Reach out to us today for personalized, free Medicare advice tailored to your unique needs and preferences.
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