By Tawnya Rohde, Director of Sales and Marketing–Independent Living

It’s never too late to get started on a fitness routine. In fact, according to HelpGuide, a collaboration with Harvard Health Publications, a recent Swedish study found that physical activity was the number one contributor to longevity—even if you don’t start exercising until your senior years. Health benefits include weight loss, better mobility and balance, improved sleep and lower risk of Alzheimer’s, diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis and certain cancers—to name just a few.

National Senior Fitness Day is May 30. So this is the perfect time to jumpstart your fitness routine! Remember, getting fit doesn’t have to mean exercising until you’re soaked in sweat. Instead, find an activity you enjoy that includes physical exercise. Here are a few Senior Exercise and Fitness Tips to get you started:

• Get the “go ahead” from your doctor. Before starting an exercise program, ask your doctor for clearance—especially if you have a preexisting condition. Also ask if there are any activities you should avoid.
• Start slow and build up steadily. If you haven’t been active in a while, build up your exercise program little by little. Try 10 minutes of exercise twice per day, or just one exercise class the first week.
• Warm up and cool down. Also take breaks to drink water. These steps will help prevent injury and discomfort.
• Make it fun. Get outside and take a walk in the sunshine. Walk in place, lift hand weights or do simple stretches while watching a favorite TV program. Get a Fitbit® or other exercise tracker to wear on your wrist—these little devices are surprisingly easy and fun to use.

• Grab a buddy. Take walks with a neighbor. Start your own walking group. Or join an exercise class.
• Commit to an exercise schedule. Set a goal to exercise on a schedule for 3 or 4 weeks and push yourself to stick to it. It will be easier to make exercising a habit.
• Track your progress. Write down your activities in an exercise journal. The best way to stay motivated is to see how far you’ve come.
• Pat yourself on the back. Sticking to an exercise routine makes you feel better physically and emotionally.

Dallas Retirement Village makes it easy to stay fit by exercising in our fitness center, participating in one of our many exercise classes or joining neighbors for a brisk walk on one of the walking trails that weave through our beautiful campus.

Not a resident of Dallas Retirement Village? You’re welcome to attend our Greater Community Exercise classes on Tuesday and Thursday at 9:00 a.m. in the Lodge Clubhouse, Cascade Commons room.

Call (503) 623-9211 for more information about fitness opportunities at Dallas Retirement Village, or to schedule a tour of our community.