The SilverSneakers Fitness Program was founded in 1992 by Mary Swanson, who was inspired by her father’s determination to become more physically active after having a heart attack when he was 51 years old. Since that time, the Silver Sneakers Program has grown to become America’s leading fitness program for seniors.
Many seniors wish to become more active but may have a limited financial budget that will not cover the cost of a fitness center membership. Seniors with a Medicare health plan, such as Humana, that covers the SilverSneakers program can enjoy a free membership to a participating gym and can also enjoy utilizing participating facilities when traveling.
What are the Benefits of the SilverSneakers Program?
Participants can benefit from the SilverSneakers Program in many ways. With free access to quality facilities that offer safe and senior-friendly classes, older adults can enjoy a healthier and more active lifestyle without paying gym fees. SilverSneakers classes offered at participating facilities feature certified instructors that are specifically trained in special needs of seniors and can encourage participants of all fitness levels. SilverSneakers Program participants may also enjoy other amenities offered at the fitness center.
SilverSneakers group exercise classes are 45 to 60 minute classes that are offered several times per week. The classes are designed to condition the entire body and specifically focus on:
- muscular strength movements
- endurance training
- focused range of motion
- increased flexibility
- improved balance
- better coordination
- more agility
The benefits extend beyond those for participating members. Seniors who are more active may experience less chronic illnesses and therefore require less costly care, which provides a great financial benefit for the insurance company. The program can also receive data through surveys sent to SilverSneakers members, which can help in planning future programs.
Fitness centers also benefit from the Silver Sneakers program. Highly trained instructors who can readily help seniors with special needs provide an asset to existing programs, and other gym participants can also take SilverSneakers classes and enjoy the health benefits that result.
What Types of Classes are Offered Through SilverSneakers?
Several group exercise land and water classes are offered through SilverSneakers programs, including:
- Muscular Strength & Range of Movement
- Cardio Circuit
- SilverSplash
- YogaStretch
All land classes offer options in which participants may remain seated at all times if desired, and these group exercise classes offer props to assist with training if desired. Seniors who are recovering from illness or who are sedentary as well as active older adults are welcome to participate in classes and are encouraged to enjoy a positive social environment while living a more fit lifestyle.
SilverSneakers Offers a Free Gym Membership and Fitness Benefits
People who wish to improve their health through focused exercises specially designed to meet the needs of older adults may wish to participate in the SilverSneakers Fitness Program. Those who qualify may enjoy a free membership to a participating fitness center, but other members of the gym may also take SilverSneakers classes at that facility. With a variety of group exercise classes offered on land and in the water that are taught by certified instructors, participants can enjoy exercising in a positive social atmosphere that can meet the needs of seniors of varying levels of fitness.
Readers may also wish to read the following articles:
- How to Get Motivated to Exercise offers practical advice for starting and continuing an exercise program
- Save Money with YMCA AWAY Program tells about another money-saving program that is offered to people of all ages with a YMCA membership.
- Healthy Exercise – Learn How to Start! provides basic information and questions people should ask before beginning an exercise program.
Source:
SilverSneakers Web Site
Katrena Wells - Katrena Wells is a RN in NC with 17 1/2 years of experience in oncology, an educator since 1995, and has taught exercise classes since ...
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