The Benefits of Group Exercise for Active Older Adults

It is widely acknowledged that exercise is good for your physical and mental health, but did you know the way you exercise also has a significant impact on both? There is growing evidence pointing to the benefits of group exercise for older adults. A recent Japanese study found that while regular exercise reduced cognitive decline in adults over the age of 65 by more than 15%, those who exercised with others nearly doubled the benefits.

For many of us, group exercise is simply more fun than a solo slog on a treadmill. But equally important, exercising in a group can combat loneliness and social isolation, which are associated with multiple health risks. In addition to the obvious health benefits of group exercise, there are four positive factors for older adults.

1. More Motivation

Not only does joining a class get you moving in the first place, having a network of supportive exercise buddies can motivate you to keep going. In a controlled trial led by the University of Missouri, adults over the age of 60 who took part in an eight-week group strength-training program reported physical improvements and a desire to maintain an exercise routine. “We keep hearing from participants that in addition to feeling stronger, healthier and more active, another major reason they enjoy the group classes is the social aspect of making friends with others their age and engaging with community members in a stress-free environment,” said the program’s founder, Stephen Ball.

2. Learning New Skills

A common excuse for not exercising is that most people find going to the gym to be boring. While solo workouts tend to be repetitive, joining a group fitness class offers the chance for seniors to learn something new. Learning to master a new dance style or practicing tai chi to improve your balance with others is more fun. Residents at Pines Village can choose from more than two dozen fitness classes a week, making it easy to try something new with your group of friends.

3. Making New Friends

From hiking clubs to line-dancing classes, there are countless ways to connect with people who share your interests. Popular sports like golf, bocce and shuffleboard provide plenty of opportunities for shooting the breeze as you are working your body and brain. You can also get your family in on the action. Instead of gathering for a meal or a movie, organize a family bike ride or play catch with your grandkids in your backyard.

4. Expert Supervision

If you are a little unsteady on your feet or trying new forms of exercise like strength training, taking a class led by a qualified instructor is the smart way to embark on your fitness journey. Expert supervision removes worries about injury or incorrect technique. It also provides a solution for those with mobility limitations who find it difficult to exercise on their own. A major 2022 study found older adults experiencing slightly reduced mobility, such as difficulty climbing stairs or walking short distances, saw notable improvement after attending group exercise sessions once or twice a week for a year.

Discover Group Exercise Classes at Pines Village

Set within 50 scenic acres in southern New Jersey’s Pinelands, our life plan community offers everything you need for an active life. Residents enjoy a fully equipped fitness center, a putting green, picturesque walking trails, bocce and shuffleboard courts. In addition to a full schedule of group exercise classes designed for active, older adults, we also offer personalized training and attention. Schedule a tour today to see for yourself all that Pines Village has to offer you!