Updated from the original publication on December 5, 2019.
Staying active is crucial for healthy aging, and older adults now have more choices than ever regarding senior-friendly fitness and wellness programs.
From low-impact balance classes and gentle stretching to invigorating strength and cardio sessions, today’s wellness classes for seniors support mobility, independence and overall well-being.
At PSL, we understand how important it is for older adults to find accessible, enjoyable ways to stay active. That’s why we’ve highlighted seven of the best wellness classes for seniors
These classes often include low-impact options like chair yoga and tai chi for balance and flexibility, water aerobics to reduce joint stress, and strength training to combat muscle loss. Many community centers, gyms like the YMCA, and senior-specific programs like SilverSneakers offer a variety of these classes, sometimes at a discounted rate for seniors.
These class options are frequently offered in fitness facilities and community centers to help you start – or continue! – your path towards living a healthy senior lifestyle.
Classes focusing on balance and flexibility for older adults
Chair yoga
A modified yoga class that uses a chair for support, making it a low-impact way to improve flexibility, strength and balance. It includes gentle stretches, mindful movements and breathing exercises, with poses adapted for seated or supported standing positions to accommodate limited mobility. This practice helps enhance circulation, reduce stiffness and is ideal for those who need balance and joint support.
Tai Chi
A graceful martial art with slow, flowing movements that improve balance, coordination, and body awareness while reducing stress. Because it requires no equipment, tai chi is easy to practice anywhere. The slow, intentional movements also make it one of the best low-impact workouts for seniors. It is adaptable to different fitness levels, with many movements that can be done while seated or using a chair for support.
Walking
Whether you join a group on the outdoor paths or listen to a podcast while using a treadmill, walking is a great senior cardio workout. You can do it at your own pace, just about anywhere. Not sure if you’re getting enough of a workout? Try the “talk test.” With a moderate level of exertion, you should be able to hold a conversation but not sing.
Classes focusing on strength and cardiovascular health for seniors
Water aerobics
A low-impact exercise that takes place in a pool. It uses the water’s buoyancy to support the body and provide resistance to build strength. It is ideal for older adults because it minimizes stress on joints, making it easier to perform movements for improved cardiovascular fitness, balance, flexibility and circulation.
Stationary bike workouts
Cycling is one of the best cardio exercises for seniors while providing low intensity for the joints. Whether riding independently or in a spin class, a typical workout should include a 5-minute warm-up, 10 to 30 minutes of steady pedaling with light resistance and a five-minute cool-down.
Strength training
Includes exercises such as squats, lunges, wall push-ups, curls and more. These can be performed with bodyweight, resistance bands or light dumbbells. Performing these exercises with slow-controlled movements builds muscle strength, endurance and improves mobility and balance.
Pilates
Pilates is a low-impact, full-body program that focuses on core strength, flexibility, and body awareness. It uses controlled movement and breath to align the body, build muscle tone, increase bone density and boost confidence. Many of the exercises are adaptable for various fitness levels.
Whether you’re just beginning your fitness journey or looking for new ways to stay active, PSL offers a wide range of senior wellness classes, such as those outlined above. They are all designed to support strength, balance, mobility and confidence.
These programs make it easier to choose activities you enjoy, because the best exercise is the one you’ll stick with! At PSL, our Life Plan Communities provide engaging wellness opportunities, professional support and a vibrant lifestyle that empowers residents to thrive at every stage of aging.
