Unlike older days, today’s older adults recognize the benefits of staying active, and the industry is broadening its service proposition to accommodate their needs. This cohort of gym-goers comprises citizens of the age of 60 and above. As a result, they require fitness solutions that meet their needs.
How Much Physical Activity Do Older Adults Need?
Regular physical activity is among the most essential things for an older adult to remain healthy. Physical activity helps prevent health problems such as weakening immunity and cardiovascular diseases that come with aging. The CDC recommends aerobic and muscle-strengthening as the primary weekly physical activities for the elderly to improve their health. Experts recommend the following:
- Thirty minutes of moderate exercise — These exercises run five days a week.
- At least 2 or 3 days of muscle-strengthening activities — These activities should engage major muscle groups.
Unfortunately, more than two-thirds of the American population aged 65+ rarely meet this minimum physical activity requirement. As a result, the importance of clubs broadening their programming options to lure the elderly remains feasible.
Why Gyms Need Active Aging Programs
Although most fitness clubs target the population under 40 years, the trend must shift to an all-inclusive program. Active aging could turn into a lucrative opportunity for them to rebuild and maintain membership. Here are reasons why fitness centers should court the older generation.
The Senior Population is Currently Underserved
IHRSA research shows that most fitness clubs currently underserve seniors. Besides, this cohort is expected to reach 65 million in the U.S. by 2025. Unfortunately, this is a significant oversight from fitness communities. These baby boomers are expected to be the largest consumers, with their spending power surpassing the Millennials’.
Exercise Can Extend the Lifespan
Regular physical activities among the elderly can improve their quality of life. AARP cites research cites regular physical activity as one factor that extends a person’s lifespan. A National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) survey between 1997 and 2001 shows that older adults that attended strengthening training at least twice a week had a longer life expectancy. Besides a longer life span, the population that participates in regular activities benefit in the following way:
- Participants record a low mortality rate
- Exercise reduces the risk of dying from cancer.
- A healthy lifestyle lowers the risk of cardiac death.
- People that engage in aerobic exercise have normal body weight.
Slow Down the Aging Process with High-Intensity Exercise
High-intensity training for the elderly is not only about burning calories but also slowing the aging process in the following ways:
- This training increase muscle strength to generate force for solid skeletal muscles.
- They help increase Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), responsible for reducing the risk of cognitive disease.
- It can elevate levels of anabolic (a muscle hormone responsible for muscle fiber repair).
Create a Safe Space for Seniors with TEK Fitness
Senior community fitness centers require proper equipment, flooring, and physical layout to improve safety and usability for older adults. Appeal to seniors by offering them a program tailored to their abilities. TEK Fitness sells cardio equipment such as treadmills, ellipticals and bikes or strength equipment, including selectorized, plate loaded, free weights and multi-stations. We offer you competitive prices for fitness equipment and programs and solutions you need to build an all-encompassing fitness facility. To find out more about TEK Fitness, contact us and learn how you can equip your fitness center to keep the older generation active and engaged.
