Colin Milner, CEO of the International Council on Active Aging in Vancouver, British Columbia, takes us through these trends:
POWER TRAINING
One out of three people over the age of 65 fall every year. Fifty percent of these people will fall again within 12 months. One of the reasons for this is our inability to respond quickly, and with force, due to a lack of power. Between the ages of 35 and 70 the average inactive person will lose close to 75 percent of their power. By reversing much of this loss we become better equipped to respond to potential dangers, such as falls, while perform better in sports and athletics, no matter our age.
FUNCTIONAL FITNESS (EXERCISING FOR DAILY LIFE)
As we get older, many of us lack the fitness levels needed to function as they could, whether walking up stairs or to the store, getting up and down off the ground or having the strength to lift 10 pounds. Ensuring we keep our capabilities as high as possible will help us to age well.With this in mind, a major trend is on providing the services and choices that can help the 50-plus crowd to maintain or improve their abilities to function day to day.Whether increasing strength, cardiovascular capacity, balance, power or flexibility, the goal is to make daily life filled with opportunities.
GREEN EXERCISE
Growth of “green exercise” and green communities see a rise in hiking, trail walks, labyrinths, cycling paths, gardening and eco tourism. Research has shown that five minutes of exercise in a park, working in garden, or in another green space benefits self esteem and mood.What’s more, boomers are fueling a new era of social responsibility and environmental stewardship, and are active participants in organizational “green teams.”
MIND/BODY 2.0
As boomers seeks answers to life questions, stress release, and a desire to manage their emotions and mental health, a greater focus on mind/body exercises and environments will continue to rise. Rather than focusing solely on just burning calories, programs now teach participants how to really “listen to their bodies” and become more aware of how to initiate slower, more deliberate and functional movements with good form.Think meditation and meditation gardens,Tai-Chi and other mind-body offerings.
WALKING
It may not make Hollywood’s “Best Ways to Get a Great Body” list, but walking is the No. 1 activity for 50-plus adults.The cost is right, as are the results. Whether walking with a group or with your grandchild, in a customized setting or with poles, utilizing outcome tracking technology or in the latest walking shoes and clothing, walking is not only a crucial means of transportation, walking speed and distance also is a predictor of health and disability. It is No. 1 for a reason:Almost everyone can do it.