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Converted from paper version of the Broad Ripple Gazette (v09n06)
Gettin' Ripped in Ripple - A Tribute to My Golden Girls - by Laura Minor
posted: Mar. 16, 2012

Gettin' Ripped in Ripple header

Guest columnist: Jennifer Willis

A Tribute to My Golden Girls

I really enjoy Tuesdays and Thursdays at the studio. That's when I have the opportunity to work with two elderly women separately. They both happen to be 87 years old and both love listening to Frank Sinatra while we work out. If it's nice out, we will go for a walk outside on the Monon for cardio. That's where I get to learn about the names of birds by their call as well as names of trees and flowers. More importantly, I get to hear stories of their past; learning about parts of history, their families, and several life lessons. I gain a new perspective seeing their gratitude in being well enough to do what they can. They are sweet, yet spunky with comments that will catch me off guard and make me laugh; especially, in their observations of people (sometimes lacking in the politeness filter).
I have seen improvements in their strength and balance. I am amazed at the exercises they can perform that even some of my young clients struggle to accomplish. That's why I was interested in finding out more about the benefits of exercise for older adults and seniors. I learned that seniors can benefit tremendously from regular exercise. The Centers for Disease Control reports that seniors have even more to gain than younger people by becoming more active because they are at higher risk for the health problems that physical activity can prevent.
Increase mental capacity
Research links physical activity with slower mental decline. Exercise increases blood flow to all parts of your body, including your brain, and might promote cell growth there. Exercise, particularly if it starts early and is maintained over time, is beneficial in preventing dementia and Alzheimer's disease. (Source: SeniorJournal.com)
Prevent disease
Exercise may delay or prevent many diseases associated with aging, such as diabetes, colon cancer, heart disease, stroke, and others, and may reduce overall death and hospitalization rates, according to the National Institute of Aging.
Improve healing
Injuries and wounds take longer to heal as people age. Regular exercise by older adults may speed up the wound-healing process by as much as 25 percent. (Source: SeniorJournal.com)
Improve quality of life
A new study has found that previously sedentary senior citizens who incorporated exercise into their lifestyles not only improved physical function, but experienced psychological benefits as well. (Source: SeniorJournal.com)
Increase balance
This helps prevent falls, a major cause of broken hips and other injuries that often lead to disability and loss of independence. (Source: SeniorJournal.com)
Increase life expectancy
Benefits are greater among the most active persons, but are also evident among those who reported moderate activity, according to the Center of Disease Control and Prevention.
The above information proves what my Golden Girls and their families have known all along; it's never too late to Be.Fit.!!

Jennifer Willis is an ACSM certified personal trainer who teaches Pilates Fusion classes at So.Be.Fit. Fitness Studio located at 1134 E. 54th St. She provides group training as well as working one-on-one with clients at the studio and in their homes.



Laura Minor owner and operator of So.Be.Fit. Personal Training and Fitness studio located at 54th and the Monon. She is passionate about teaching others how to "FIT" exercise and physical activity into their daily lives, and have fun while doing so! Visit her website at www.sobefitindy.com or e-mail laura@BroadRippleGazette.com




laura@broadripplegazette.com
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