Top 5 Questions Seniors need to Ask: “Being fit” simply defined, basically means that you are able to perform all the functions that you need to perform on a day to day basis.  Other people would say that it is about appearances or particular read-outs of cholesterol and blood tests.  Knowing that one is fit is much different than trying to breakdown what fit is into labels and definitions.  A fit person will say that they have energy, can get everything done that they need to on average, and that they are happy or satisfied with how their clothes fits them. 

If you are a senior and searching for a good fitness program, you may be wondering how they will define fit or define you.  They all will advertise their benefits like billboard signs on a highway telling you that you just passed the best restaurant in the world when you drove past exit 25.  Before you turn around to examine every program which wants you to join it, it is good to ask a few questions to yourself first.  After you know what you are looking for in a fitness program, you will know what questions to ask them.

Your doctor should be able to direct you in appropriate directions to start out.  His office may be connected with another institution which offers classes, personal training, nutritionists and clubs.  The fact that your doctor has connections with fitness programs may possibly make him or her fewer objectives about listening to what you like to do for physical activity and wellness, so know that you don’t have to play badminton every Tuesday for the rest of your life if you don’t want.  Let your doctor know what you want.  If you feel that fit would mean that you can reach the top shelf without getting out of breath or if you want to be able to walk/run five miles a day, then get that specific.  Having you sign up with a square dancing club when you would rather be able to walk on the golf course is not going to keep you motivated in your fitness program.

Other questions that you should ask yourself include:

Do I want to workout with people in a class or group sport? 

Do I want to build strength or maintain it? 

Does my workout need to help me burn more calories? 

Would I stay more motivated if I could just take walks with a friend every morning?

What health concerns do I have? 

The senior body is as diverse as humans are in general.  Make sure that you ask yourself exactly what you want out of a workout, but be open to suggestions.  There may be a sport or activity out there which you would absolutely love.  Staying open to new opportunities keeps the mind young and curious too.

If you have consulted with your doctor and yourself about what you want, it is still possible that you will have to come back to the drawing board a few times.  This depends of course, on what, if any, conditions you have which may make a certain exercise more strain on your body than its worth.  Your doctor will not always know exactly how your body will react.  Keeping an open mind toward your doctor, your body and any place you go to participate in a fitness program will make the process easier.  Most fitness programs are accustomed to people trying them on a trial basis.  Make sure that they offer at least a week trial that is free, so you do not get wrapped into a contract for something you will not be able to use.  The trial period should be long enough for your body to tell you whether you will enjoy the activities which they provide. 

Another key to success with finding an appropriate exercise program for you is to let yourself take everything slowly.  The body does not like abrupt change under most circumstances.  Let your body get adjusted gently.  Most fitness programs are incorporating cross training elements which means that you might walk on a treadmill one day, then do swim aerobics the next.  Your body will need to absorb the various pressures and stretches you will be putting on it.  Agree with yourself that you will apply only the most moderate levels exertion in the beginning of your fitness plan.