Free Seniors' Exercise Classes Continue in Temagami

According to the Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines, to achieve health benefits and improve functional abilities, adults aged 55 years and older should accumulate at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity per week, in bouts of 10 minutes or more.  It is also beneficial to add muscle and bone strengthening activities using major muscle groups, at least 2 days per week. Those with poor mobility should perform activities to enhance balance and prevent falls. 

As you grow older, an active lifestyle is more important than ever.  Regular exercise can help boost energy, maintain your independence, and manage symptoms of illness or pain.  Exercise can even reverse some of the symptoms of aging.  And not only is exercise good for your body, it’s also good for your mind, mood, and memory. 

There are four building blocks to senior fitness:

• Cardio endurance:  uses large muscle groups in rhythmic motions over a period of time. Cardio workouts get your heart pumping. 
• Strength:  builds muscle with repetitive motion using weight or external resistance from body weight, machines, free weights or elastic bands. Strength training helps prevent loss of bone mass, builds muscle, and improve balance – both important in staying active and avoiding falls.
• Flexibility:  challenges the ability of your body’s joints to move freely through a full range of motion.  This can be done through stretches to keep muscles and joints moving easily so they are less prone to injury.
• Balance:  maintains standing and stability, whether you’re standing still or moving around. Yoga, Tai Chi and posture exercises are all good exercises to gain confidence with balance. 

Classes, conducted by Rhonda Etmanski, will be held twice a week:            
- Monday mornings at 1:30 p.m. at Ronnoco House
- Wednesday mornings at 10:00 a.m. at the Legion

If you are 55 or older and are interested in participating in these free classes or have questions, please call Rhonda at (705) 569-2636 after 6:00 p.m. Please wear loose, comfortable clothing and running shoes.

These free classes are being made possible with funding from the NE Local Health Integration Network.

The Temagami Medical Centre and Family Health Team ...
committed to keeping you as healthy as possible!