Where Can Seniors Stay Active in the Baltimore Area?
From the Baltimore County Department of Aging’s fitness centers, exercise classes and health and wellness programs, to local YMCAs, there are many easily accessible and affordable programs to help you or your loved one stay physically active no matter your mobility level. If you’re up for a game of tennis, or would like to take a quiet walk in the woods or around your neighborhood, Avila Home Care has researched ways to stay active locally that also provide opportunities for socializing and staying connected to the community and nature. If you can’t walk or drive yourself to your destination, the Caregivers at Avila Home Care can provide companionship and transportation – feel free to call us at 410-826-6100 to find out more today!
The Baltimore County Department of Aging Has A LOT of Fitness Programs!
The Baltimore County Department of Aging encourages seniors to “Energize Your Life” at any of their 20 senior centers located throughout Baltimore County. Avila took a gander at the Department of Aging’s website, and found that they have 13 fitness centers, and even at their regular senior centers, loads of fitness and exercise programs, as well as health and wellness programs. If you or your loved one isn’t able to leave home, they even offer online fitness classes, including several classes that can be found on YouTube.
1. Fitness Centers
You or your loved one can have membership privileges at 13 fitness centers operated by the Baltimore County Department of Aging for the low annual fee of only $100. The fitness centers have many types of equipment, including treadmills, recumbent bikes and free weights.
Fitness and Exercise Classes – Baltimore County (baltimorecountymd.gov) include everything from aerobics and cycling to lower-impact workouts seated on a chair like chair pilates and yoga.
2. Health and Wellness Programs
In addition to exercise gyms and classes at their fitness centers, the Baltimore County Department of Aging has robust Health and Wellness Programs – Baltimore County (baltimorecountymd.gov). Below are examples of a few:
Fit and Strong! is an eight-week program for older adults with osteoarthritis.
The Geri-Fit workout class accommodates all fitness levels and modifications of the exercises will be demonstrated so that everyone is able to participate.
Bingocize combines a bingo-like game with exercise and health education.
Some seniors struggle with balance, which can be an issue with aging in general, or can be caused by a specific underlying condition. The Baltimore County Department of Aging offers in-person and online classes to help with balance, including Stepping On: Fall Prevention Education, Tai Chi for Better Balance, and Move With Balance – On Line. The goal of these classes is to improve balance and brain function, which can lead to “increased coordination, sharper cognitive skills, better vision and enhanced self-confidence.”
3. YouTube Channel
Seniors can stay fit at home with the Baltimore County Department of Aging’s YouTube channel! Some examples of these online classes that you can watch any time include:
• Chair Yoga with Brooke Mulholland
• Power Up Cardio with Mary Lewis
• Strength Training with Karen Kansler
• Zumba Gold with Karen Daniels
• Tai Chi with Andrew Giordano
Fitness at The Y, Tennis and Hiking, Oh My!
In addition to fitness opportunities that the Baltimore County Department of Aging offers, check out Senior Fitness | The Y in Central Maryland (ymaryland.org). From low-impact Zumba to cardio training, and a walking club to swimming, there are many ways to engage and stay fit close to home at your local YMCA!
If you are up for a game of tennis, there are hundreds of tennis courts in the Baltimore area: www.TennisBaltimore.com | Baltimore Tennis Courts
Last but not least – spend some time in nature! Check out these trails in the Baltimore area – many of which are within just a few minutes’ drive: Best trails in Baltimore, Maryland | AllTrails and 12 Gorgeous Hikes Near Baltimore for All Levels – Urban Outdoors (theurbanoutdoors.com).
Avila Home Care is here to support you with your fitness adventures – whether driving you to a class, accompanying you on a walk, or connecting you to online classes in the comfort of your own home. Call us today at 410-826-6100!
*Avila recommends always checking in with a physician before starting any exercise program.*
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