ANN ARBOR, Mich. — At 5:30 a.m., every Monday through Thursday, you can find Ann Arbor resident Joan Weir waiting for the Ann Arbor Ice Cube Fitness Center’s doors to open so she can begin her regular workout regimen. Yet when asked why the 72 year old likes to exercise, her response is simple: She doesn’t.  

 

Even though she may not love it, Weir understands the importance of physical activity for her health—especially as she ages. By working with a balance ball and walking on a treadmill, Weir has maintained her strength and endurance as a gym member for the past 10 years.

 

Carol Warheit, wellness coordinator with MFit, the University of Michigan Health System’s health promotion division, says that she sees many senior citizens like Weir who are regulars at MFit’s Fitness Center. Some work out because of a doctor’s orders, many exercise just to be healthy, and others come to the gym to socialize and meet people. Suprisingly, almost 20 percent of MFit Fitness Center members are age 70 or older.

 

Despite misconceptions some people have, such as exercise will make them more tired or that it will hurt them, Warheit says the benefits of physical activity for seniors are vast. Exercise can act as a preventative measure or assist with treatment for many conditions, such as high blood pressure, cholesterol and osteoporosis. It can also slow the progressive decline that occurs with inactivity and aging as it improves strength, endurance, balance and flexibility. Working out regularly can also provide relief from conditions such as arthritis and improve glucose control in diabetics.

 

MFit offers an array of programs that can meet the various needs of senior citizens. Fit-Script, for example, is a medically-based exercise program for people with a complex health history, chronic condition, or who have completed cardiac or physical rehabilitation. Personal trainers also work with seniors to focus on their specific needs—such as weight loss, strength and balancing training, aerobic conditioning, or back care.

 

Warheit says that the most important thing is that seniors get out there and exercise. But she suggests that senior citizens wishing to begin a fitness program should first talk to a doctor to learn the risks, restrictions and benefits related to their specific circumstances.

 

“It is never too late to start an exercise program; more damage can be done with a sedentary lifestyle than with an active lifestyle. Use it or lose it, and don’t be afraid to try something new,” she says. “Just ask a professional before you do it.”

 

And Weir agrees.

 

“I do believe exercise is good for you as you grow older because— as we all know— the bones and muscles get weaker, and they get older too,” she says. “I think older people will find there is a difference once they begin to exercise. … So seniors: come out and try it.”

 

The MFit Fitness Center is located in the Ann Arbor Ice Cube, 2121 Oak Valley Drive in Ann Arbor. Memberships are available for three, six or 12 month periods. New members receive a free orientation to introduce them to the facility’s cardiovascular machines and strength circuit. MFit also offers a variety of exercise and relaxation classes at various Ann Arbor locations as well as personal training and an exercise program for people with special needs. To learn more please visit http://www.med.umich.edu/mfit/fitness.