Parkview Senior Living
Partnering with You to Maintain Your Independence Through Physical Fitness
It’s probably no surprise, but if you enjoy doing something, you’re more likely to stick with it. On the other side of that coin, variety is the spice of life. So, when it comes to remaining physically active in your golden years, a combination of both may be just what your doctor ordered.
As we age, there’s no question our bodies change, and what you need from a workout will evolve as well. A focus on strength building, remaining mobile, and improving balance typically becomes our preferred goal rather than high endurance, high impact workouts. Your bones and knees may no longer be able to handle exercises that involve running, jumping, and lunging. Knowing and listening to your body is key.
Laura Weisberg, M.P.T. and owner of Forward Physical Therapy in West Knoxville, says there’s no reason that aging can’t be a journey full of adventure and a full life.
“As a physical therapist with more than 20 years of experience, I believe that regular exercise is critical to the aging process,” said Laura. “It helps in maintaining balance to prevent falls, increase blood flow to the brain in order to fight cognitive decline, prevent diseases such as osteoporosis or cardiovascular diseases, and improve quality of sleep, energy levels, and to fight depression. There are many benefits, so I tell my patients to find what they love and keep moving!”
At Parkview Senior Living, we developed our communities knowing that living not only an independent lifestyle is a cornerstone to a rewarding retirement, but so is maintaining an active one. That’s why each of our communities includes a fitness center, where we provide state-of-the-art equipment, as well as organized classes that teach a variety of activities for all levels of physical fitness.
Below are several great exercise practices that Parkview offers our residents. These all put minimal stress on bones and joints and are fun to boot. As always, check with your doctor prior to starting any exercise regimen.
1. Resistance Band Training – Parkview’s fitness centers have an array of resistance bands available for use. Bands work your muscles using little resistance and allow you to work your way up to harder resistance without having to buy expensive equipment.
2. Weight Training – Don’t panic! You don’t have to start bench pressing lots of weight to get healthy muscles and gain overall tone. Start with the smallest amount of weight dumbbell and increase weight when you feel comfortable. You can also do bodyweight exercise that are very simple like chair squats, wall pushups, stair climbing, and the bird dog. All that’s required is a little floor space, your own bodyweight, and possibly a chair or table to get started.
3. Yoga – Yoga has become popular with seniors, primarily because it is flexible to adapt the practice to fit your individual needs. Yoga combines physical poses with mindfulness, breathing techniques, and meditation so it can benefit you in many ways:
» Improves strength, flexibility, and endurance
» Lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease
» Prevents falls by improving balance
» Manages arthritis, pain, and inflammation
» Improves sleep quality
» Facilitates the grieving process
» Manages depression and anxiety
4. Tai Chi – This ancient Chinese martial art is a discipline that involves the mind, breath, and motion. It is wonderful for seniors because it helps with muscle strengthening and increasing flexibility, both of which help with balance.
And let’s not forget walking! Each Parkview community has a lovely walking trail, which encourages our residents to keep moving and enjoy the beauty of not only their new home, but also our glorious East Tennessee surroundings and seasonal delights.
Walking is something most of us do every day anyway, so why not do just a little more of it, but with intent! Experts recommend most people take at least 10,000 steps per day. That may sound hugely overwhelming, but you don’t have to start out at 10,000 right out the gate. What you do have to do is put one foot in front of the other. Any amount of walking is great and can impact your health in a positive way. Most smartphones have built-in apps that will keep track of your steps for you. So grab your headphones, listen to a podcast or your favorite music, grab your walking buddy, human, or furry, and off you go!
At Parkview Senior Living, caring for and encouraging our residents to live their lives to the fullest is what we believe in and care about. We invite you to discover the Parkview Senior Living difference for yourself by scheduling your personal tour today.
Parkview Senior Living
770 Broome Road
Knoxville, TN 37909
865.357.2288
1413 W. Broadway
Maryville, TN 37801
865.980.8810
COMING SOON!
Emory Road & Tullahoma, TN