In its Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the U.S. Departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services make recommendations about physical activity for adults. To reduce the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease and stroke, the guidelines suggest at least 30 minutes of moderately intense activity most days of the week. Adult fitness programs are essential not only to prevent disease, but also to maintain overall strength and stamina. Before taking part in any exercise program, consult your doctor.
National Institute on Aging
An affiliate of the National Institutes of Health, the National Institute on Aging published a guide to adult fitness in 2009 entitled "Exercise & Physical Activity." Among the NIA's recommendations are increasing your daily activity to 8,000 steps per day as measured by a pedometer, using small weights and resistance bands to perform simple wrist, arm and shoulder exercises, and employing a chair to stretch and strengthen knees and legs.
SilverSneakers
SilverSneakers is an exercise program designed by health-care company Healthways for adults 65 and older. The membership-based program boasts a network of more than 10,000 locations across the U.S., offering classes, support groups and one-on-one access to a trainer. Many seniors can gain access to SilverSneakers through their Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplemental and retiree group health plans.
President's Council on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition
The President's Council on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition began in the 1960s as a fitness test for school children. It introduced an Adult Fitness Test in the 1990s and, later, the Presidential Champions. The Presidential Champions program challenges adults to get regular exercise and compete against friends, family and co-workers to earn points based on energy expended.
YMCA Healthy Living
Each YMCA location offers its own slate of adult-specific fitness programs, from organized classes to open hours at the pool or fitness center. Its Healthy Living program incorporates fitness classes, personal training and Healthy Family Home, a five-tier initiative that stresses the importance of eating healthy, playing every day, exploring healthy habits as a family, going outside and the importance of restful sleep.
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