The Kishwaukee Family YMCA offers fitness programs for active older adults and seniors like water exercise, stretching classes and walking. But, we know that older adults are seeking more than physical benefits when they exercise. They also want a sense of community and to strengthen social ties. The Y has several activities to encourage older adults to take action and get involved. Socializing and volunteering have positive effects on the health of older adults, and exercise has proven to promote mental agility in addition to longevity and good health. Join the fun in a safe and welcoming wellness class. Make new friends and connect with other people just like you. Build confidence as you learn how to exercise properly under the guidance of one of our caring certified instructors. Be inspired, laugh, get fit, have fun and reach your goals. Supportive classes for those just starting on a path to a healthier lifestyle are available, as are classes for those well on their way.
Health & Well-Being Programs
We offer fitness programs for older adults such as SilverSneakers® group exercise classes, Strength and Balance, Enhanced Fitness, Yoga, Zumba Gold, Group Active, Arthritis Aquatics, Stretch/Strength/Recover/Relief, Low Impact Aquacize and Senior Water Exercise.
SilverSneakers®
SilverSneakers® is a preventative exercise program that enhances the quality of life for mature adults across the country. One of the largest senior-focused exercise program in the United States, this partnership between HCD and HMOs allows Medicare-eligible members of these health plans to participate in YMCA programs at no additional cost. Please visit the YMCA Front desk to see if you qualify.
SilverSneakers Yoga®
This program is Healthway’s older adult group exercise program that specifically targets flexibility, range of movement, balance and mind body integration. Learn basic postures, stretches and relaxation. Exercises can be done sitting or standing. Shoes are worn and there is no floor work.
Enhanced Fitness®
Now there’s a fitness program designed for older adults just like you. Enhance Fitness combines the key components of fitness: strength training, flexibility, cardiovascular conditioning and balance. Classes begin with a warm-up, followed by strength training with light, soft wrist and ankle weights, a cardio session and finish with a cool-down and stretching. This program is recognized by the CDC. Exercises can be done in a chair or standing based on participants needs. Great for those with Arthritis.
Strength and Balance
Studies show it is never too late to build muscle strength and endurance to help accomplish daily tasks, improve balance and increase flexibility. Use of bands, tubes, weights and balls. All exercises are done in a chair. This class was developed with NIU.
Zumba Gold®
This easy to follow program will let you move to the beat at your own speed. Zumba Gold is designed to bring the excitement of a traditional Zumba class to the beginner participants, the active older adults, and other special populations that may need modification for success. It’s an invigorating, community-oriented, dance-fitness class that feels fresh and most of all, exhilarating! Zumba Gold classes provide modified, low impact moves for active older adults.
Pickleball
Pickleball is a newer sport that takes elements from badminton, tennis and ping pong. Pickleball is a fun game that is played on a badminton court with the net lowered to 34 inches at the center. It is played with a perforated plastic baseball (similar to a whiffle ball) and wood or composite paddles. It is easy for beginners to learn, but can develop into a quick, fast-pasted competitive game for experienced players. Please sign up at the Front Desk on the interest list.
Click here to view more information about our Group Water Classes.
Click here to a class schedule for our Active Older Adult Classes.
