Today we know that our diets, physical activity levels, personal habits, and our belief in our ability to handle new challenges have the strongest influence on how well we age.  Of these four factors, physical activity is at the crux of successful aging. Yet, three in five adults over the age of 65 currently do not meet recommended physical activity levels.

Why is this?  Though most experts agree that it is more risky to be sedentary than active, fear of injury, stroke, heart attack or worse are often cited as the main reasons why older adults shy away from physical activity.  To help alleviate these fears, a group of researchers and clinicians, with funding from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation^® developed the Exercise and Screening for You tool (EASY) http://www.easyforyou.info.  EASY is designed to help you decide when to see a health care provider before starting a physical activity program and helps you choose activities best suited to your current state of health.

Other useful tools can be found at the President's Challenge website http://www.presidentschallenge.org/. Created by the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, the President's Challenge is a program that encourages you to make being active a regular part of your day.  Aside from providing you with a wealth of information on physical activity and exercise, the President's Challenge website, offers a section specifically for seniors . You can use to track your progress using their online activity log, calculate your Body Mass Index (a measure of your height to weight ratio) using their Fitness Calculator, and even earn rewards for your efforts.

If group programs interest you, you might consider checking out SilverSneakers^®.  Available at several health clubs and YMCA's in the metropolitan Detroit area (YMCA Locations), SilverSneakers® offers classes designed exclusively for older adults interested in improving their strength, flexibility, balance and endurance. 

EnhanceFitness, http://www.projectenhance.org, recognized by the U.S. Administration on Aging as an "evidence-based" program, is another group program worth considering.  It focuses on stretching, flexibility, balance, low-impact aerobics, and strength training exercises.  Though more prevalent on the west side of the state, classes have recently been forming in the Detroit area.  For locations, contact the Detroit Area Agency on Aging.  http://www.daaa1a.org/DAAA

For those of you more comfortable exercising at home, Fitness Forever – http://www.fitnessforever.com/home_use.html may meet your needs.  This award winning senior exercise video, endorsed by the American College of Sports Medicine, focuses on upper and lower body coordination, balance and changing patterns, and proper body mechanics.

Regardless of whether you exercise at home, at a gym, in a class, or by yourself, the benefits will accrue.  The key is to simply get moving. Of course, it is recommended that you consult your physician before beginning any excercise program.

Article contributed by Tom Wyllie, Presbyterian Villages of Michigan.