For senior citizens, a good way to get exercise is through group fitness classes like Drums Alive at the Matt Ross Community Center in Overland Park, Kansas.
Debbie Shearer teaches the class. She says introducing exercise into senior citizens’ routines is “part of staying alive.”
“If you don’t use it, you are going to lose the ability, and you are going to become deconditioned,” Shearer says. “And when you become deconditioned, then you start falling, you start having accidents, then you lose your independence.”
Tami Lickteig is the coordinator for the 50 Plus program at Johnson County Parks and Recreation. By introducing sessions like Drums Alive, salsa dancing and “Cane-Fu” self-defense, she’s hoping to draw more people to classes.
“I think it’s more fun than a traditional fitness class,” she says.
“You’re doing something that is at any fitness level, and it’s something new and exciting.”
Shearer says class participants experience more than just physical benefits. They also leave Drums Alive with a smile.
“You get your heart rate up, you get hot, and then we have a cool down, and hopefully your mood is elevated, and you’re happier, and when you get out of here you’re a happier person,” she says.
Todd Feeback is multimedia editor for KCPT television in Kansas City, Mo., a partner in the Heartland Health Monitor team.
Bridgit Bowden is entrepreneurship reporter for KCPT television in Kansas City, Mo., a partner in the Heartland Health Monitor team.
