RED BANK — The perceptions of what it means to be an older adult have been transforming from outdated concepts to the new reality that many seniors are very active physically, socially and mentally.
“All research shows that you have to stay busy and exercise to lead a healthy, fit lifestyle,” said Pat Weir, a personal trainer and water fitness instructor at The Atlantic Club.
Weir said she thinks that many older people don’t know what is available to them in terms of exercise and activity. While some may have conditions – such as arthritis – that they believe limit what they can do, exercises and equipment can be adapted for any challenges seniors may have, she said.
The Atlantic Club will recognize Active Aging Week from Sunday. Sept. 23, to Saturday, Sept. 29 to help older adults see the many choices available to them.
The Atlantic Club is embracing the Active Aging Week theme, Many journeys, many destinations, by hosting a week full of special classes, educational lectures and social events. Those age 60 years and older are invited to be guests of the club and enjoy everything it has to offer.
“The main reason we’re doing this is because it really fits what we do,” said Pamela D’Luhy, digital media marketing specialist at The Atlantic Club. “We’re trying to make sure that seniors stay active…We find that once they take that first step and try something new, they want to continue doing it.”
D’Luhy said The Atlantic Club has lots of activities available to seniors – from playing board games to doing strengthening exercises to yoga or swimming laps in the pool.
Among the club’s offerings during Active Aging Week at The Atlantic Club, 325 Maple Ave., are:
Eat Well, Age Well lecture at 11:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 24: Join Tom Bilella, founder and director of the Nutrition Treatment Center, for this informative workshop on Healthy Eating for Healthy Aging. Bilella specializes in fatigue, anxiety, depression, weight loss, chronic illness and other ailments that have a nutritional basis for their development and progression.
Zumba Gold at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 26: Join Patty McGill for a low impact, easy-to-follow and fun Latin-inspired dance class. Zumba Gold keeps you in the groove of life.
Crest Balance Assessments and Workshop at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday Sept. 26: Matt Smelas from Crest Physical Therapy will lead a lecture on the importance of balance for an active lifestyle. Smelas has been practicing physical therapy since 1996. He earned his doctorate in physical therapy this year.
Total Body Workout with Kim Cugini at noon Thursday, Sept. 27: This class offers participants all they need for a total body workout – strength, cardio and flexibility training. The session aims to build stronger muscles, improve circulation and increase joint mobility by using light weights, executing simple cardio moves and easing the body through range of motion.
Aqua Zumba at 11:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 28: The hottest dance craze is cool in the pool. This Latin-inspired class taught by certified Zumba instructor, Amanda O’Neil, will have participants joyfully moving and grooving to great music without stressing the joints.
Those interested in taking a class or listening to a lecture during Active Aging Week are asked to call a wellness coordinator at 732-223-2100 or visit The Atlantic Club’s website at www.theatlanticclub.com/active_aging_week_at_the_ atlantic_club.aspx to view a full schedule of events.
Active Aging Week, organized by the International Council on Active Aging®, is a national observance that showcases the healthy choices and diverse opportunities available to older adults in a fun and educational atmosphere.
“In today’s world, older adults have longer life spans and can choose lifestyles that support better health — physical and mental. Their wisdom and experience are needed by their communities and their own well-being is stimulated by choosing meaningful pursuits,” said Colin Milner, CEO of International Council on Active Aging. “Active Aging Week is the annual event that reinforces the tremendous opportunities available to the aging population.”
The Atlantic Club, Inc., established in 1977, provides a full spectrum of fitness programs and activities for the health, education and recreation needs of its members and the community at its two locations, in Red Bank and Manasquan. The company offers cutting- edge fitness facilities and services, including comprehensive exercise classes, mind-body programs, top personal trainers, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis/racquet courts, hiking trails, hot tubs, steam rooms, locker rooms and a café. Additional information is available at www.theatlanticclub.com.
