May 27 is National Senior Health & Fitness Day, making it the perfect time to focus on staying active, healthy, and independent at every age. Regular exercise can help older adults improve balance, strengthen muscles, reduce the risk of falls, and even boost brain health and mood. In fact, the CDC recommends adults 65 and older get at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week to support overall wellness and healthy aging.
Whether you’re looking to stay fit, meet new people, or simply feel your best, Prince William County Parks & Rec offers a variety of programs designed to help you move more and live well. Check out these five programs. Classes fill up fast, so be sure to register soon!
Aquabilities
In this popular program led by a Certified Personal Trainer you will learn how to exercise without straining your joints and muscles. Gentle exercises in warm water help increase flexibility, joint range of motion, and muscle strength while reducing pain and stiffness. Join the fun at Chinn Aquatics & Fitness Center. View all Aquabilities class dates and times and get registered today.
Take a Walk with a Doc
Walking truly is the best medicine. Walk with a Doc series brings people together for a common purpose—taking steps toward a healthier lifestyle. Each Walk with a Doc event is led by a healthcare provider who spends a few minutes talking about a relevant health topic. The walks are also an opportunity for community members to connect, learn from each other, and celebrate both similarities and differences. Walks take place at Chinn Aquatics & Fitness Center. Participants should meet at the front desk. No rain dates are available. Program is free but registration is required. Dates throughout the summer are available.
Tai Chi
Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese martial art and exercise system that combines slow, flowing movements, controlled breathing, and meditation. It’s known for its health benefits, including improved balance, flexibility, and cardiovascular function, as well as stress reduction and pain relief. Come explore its many benefits in a non-competitive and supportive atmosphere that is challenging and enjoyable. All levels are welcome. For those first-timers who want to see what Tai Chi is all about, you’re welcome to join the class as a drop-in at no cost on the last scheduled Thursday of each month. Register for Tai Chi today.
Yoga
There are so many benefits that come from practicing yoga. From improving strength, posture, balance and flexibility, to easing back pain or other chronic pain and even helping to reduce stress levels, the benefits are numerous. Come try out Yoga classes.
Pilates
If you’ve ever wanted to try Pilates now is your chance. The Pilates Reformer Foundations classes at Sharron Baucom Dale City Recreation Center are perfect for students new to the practice or who have been practicing Pilates for less than a year. The class goal is to improve, maintain, or restore physical function. Sessions include mobility work, stretching, and strengthening exercises. Pilates mat and gentle Pilates reformer classes are available. All of these Pilates classes can help you improve posture, core strength, flexibility, and a highlighted focus on improving balance, which is an important part of overall health as we age.