Fitness Classes for Seniors in Wauwatosa
Staying active is one of the best ways for seniors to stay healthy, stay independent, and enjoy life to the fullest. If you’re in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, you’re in luck. Wauwatosa is an ideal place for retirement, and just one of those reasons is that this city is home to a variety of fitness classes great for older adults.
From gentle yoga to water aerobics, there’s something for everyone. This article will explore exercise classes available for seniors in Wauwatosa, so you can find the perfect fit for your needs.
Before you jump into a new fitness program, be sure to take a moment to check in with your doctor—especially if you have any existing health concerns. Remember, your body knows best, so always listen to it and make adjustments to exercises as needed to keep things safe and comfortable for you.
Jump to article sections:
- The importance of Senior Fitness
- Yoga Classes
- Water Aerobics
- Cardio Classes
- Walking Groups
- Pickleball
- Wauwatosa Senior Center Fitness Programs
- Trying Out New Activities
- Conclusion
1. The Importance of Senior Fitness
As we grow older, our bodies naturally experience changes that can impact physical abilities. That’s why prioritizing fitness is so important for seniors. Regular exercise not only helps in preventing or managing chronic conditions like heart disease, arthritis, and osteoporosis, but it also supports brain health by improving cognitive function and lowering the risk of dementia.
Beyond the physical perks, staying active has a big impact on mental well-being too. Exercise triggers endorphins that uplift your mood and ease stress and anxiety. Plus, it fosters a sense of achievement and empowerment, making you feel great both inside and out. Read more in our guide “Health and Wellness Tips for Seniors.”
2. Yoga Classes
Yoga is a great low-impact exercise that helps to improve balance, flexibility, and strength. It also offers mental benefits such as reducing stress and improving overall wellbeing.
In Wauwatosa, there are several yoga classes designed specifically for seniors, including gentle and chair yoga options. These classes focus on proper breathing techniques, gentle stretches, and relaxation exercises. Some notable studios offering senior-friendly yoga classes include the gentle yoga classes at Tosa Yoga Center or Empower Yoga.
3. Water Aerobics
Water aerobics is a popular choice among seniors because it’s easy on the joints and offers a full-body workout. What’s more, exercising in water can help improve cardiovascular health, reduce stress on bones and muscles, and increase range of motion. In Wauwatosa, you can find water aerobics classes at the local gyms – the West Suburban YMCA and Wisconsin Athletic Club.
4. Cardio Classes
Cardiovascular exercise is important for maintaining heart health, improving circulation, and increasing endurance. There are many options for seniors to get their heart rate up in Wauwatosa, including Zumba, SilverSneakers CardioFit, and cycling classes at local gyms like the Wisconsin Athletic Club, West Suburban YMCA and Anytime Fitness.
The YMCA’s SilverSneakers program is specifically designed for seniors and offers a variety of classes including cardio, strength training, and balance exercises. It is the nation’s leading exercise program for active older adults who are Medicare eligible. Both the YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee and YMCA of Greater Waukesha County – a short drive from Wauwatosa – offer the SilverSneakers program.
5. Walking Groups
Walking is a great form of exercise that can be done at any age. It’s low-impact and can be easily modified for different fitness levels. Joining a walking group in Wauwatosa is not only a great way to stay active, but also an opportunity to socialize with fellow seniors.
The Wauwatosa Senior Center offers several walking groups throughout the week, including leisurely walks and more vigorous hikes. These groups are a great way to explore the beautiful parks and neighborhoods of Wauwatosa while staying active.
6. Pickleball
Pickleball is a popular racquet sport among seniors that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. It’s a fun and social activity that also provides a good workout. The Wauwatosa Recreation Department offers pickleball classes for beginners as well as open play sessions for more experienced players.
Pickleball is considered the nation’s fastest growing sport, and for good reason! Many seniors in Wauwatosa have discovered the benefits of pickleball, including improved hand-eye coordination, increased strength and endurance, and a sense of community.
7. Wauwatosa Senior Center Fitness Programs
The Wauwatosa Senior Center is a hub for senior activities and programs in the city. In addition to walking groups, they offer a variety of fitness classes such as yoga and walking groups. These classes are designed specifically for older adults and cater to different abilities and fitness levels. The center also hosts special events like health seminars, cooking demonstrations, and social gatherings
8. Trying Out New Activities
In addition to these fitness classes, there are plenty of other activities in Wauwatosa that seniors can participate in to stay active. These include golfing at one of the many local courses, biking or walking on the Oak Leaf Trail, and gardening at community gardens. There are also various senior-friendly events and programs organized by the Wauwatosa Recreation Department.
Seniors can also benefit immensely from trying new activities that they may have never done before. This can include dance classes, curling or tai chi. Wauwatosa has something for everyone, and trying out new activities is a great way to stay engaged and active in the community.
9. Conclusion
No matter what type of exercise you prefer, there is something for everyone in Wauwatosa’s senior fitness community. So don’t let age hold you back from staying active and healthy.
Harwood Place, a luxury senior living home in Wauwatosa, prioritizes the health of our residents and offers a variety of group workout classes that include standing and seated exercises, joint mobility and flexibility, balance and fall prevention exercise, heart strength and more. Our goal is to encourage our residents to maintain an active lifestyle and enjoy all the benefits that regular exercise provides.
To learn more about Harwood Place, don’t hesitate to give us a call today.
