In a study from the National Library of Medicine, Elgaddal and Kramarow found that only 13.9% of adults 65 and older met federal physical activity guidelines in 2022. As we get older, it's easy to fall into the trap of inactivity, especially since we don't have as much energy and have more pain and discomfort.
However, a lack of physical activity can cause our health to further deteriorate. This can affect our overall well-being, and our quality of life can suffer.
The good news is that if you live in Dallas, TX, there are many wellness activities available. Here are some suggestions to help you get into an active senior lifestyle.
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden often has fitness classes that are suitable for older adults. Currently, they're running a "Yoga in the Garden" series from June 8th to July 13th. Every Sunday, from 8:00-8:45 am, you can participate in this all-level Vinyasa class.
These classes are led by Thomas Renner, who has over 15 years of experience in the fitness industry. The class includes:
For a single session, it'll cost $35 ($30 if you're a member). The ticket includes admission to the arboretum and botanical garden, so you're welcome to tour the grounds after the yoga class.
Tai chi and qi gong are excellent for senior fitness in Dallas, as they allow you to ease into wellness through low-impact exercises. Both include slow, meditative movements, which are perfect for:
You'll find these free classes at Klyde Warren Park on Saturday mornings from 8:00-8:45 am. They're led by Dr. Michael Braitsch, PT, DPT, who's also a doctor of physical therapy.
Since you're in the park anyway, you can always take a nice stroll after your classes.
If you're already a more active senior and would like more healthy aging in Texas, then try out the Body Mountain Bootcamp or Sweat & Sculpt at Klyde Warren Park. The GEM hosts these sessions, and they're on every Saturday (bootcamp) and Sunday (Sweat & Sculpt) from 8:45-9:25 am. Since the bootcamp sessions are right after the tai chi and qi gong classes, you can always combine the two for an active Saturday morning.
In Body Mountain Bootcamp, you can learn a heart-healthy HIIT routine. And with Sweat & Sculpt, you'll enjoy a low-impact blend of Pilates, dance, and resistance moves.
Whichever you choose, you'll build strength and cardio health, all while soaking up energy in an outdoor group environment.
Fair Park has a series of yoga classes held by Transcend Wellness. Examples include:
This is part of their Self-Care Saturdays, and you'll meet at the Museum Green at 10:00 am. There's always a live DJ playing great tunes, and each session is taught by a different expert to switch things up.
Bring your yoga mat, as well as your friends if they'd like to get active too. These events have sponsored giveaways, so you might just walk away with some new gear.
The Trinity River Audubon Center is an amazing location to immerse yourself in nature, and it's only 10 miles south of Downtown Dallas.
Forest bathing is a Japanese practice, and it's where you mindfully walk through natural settings to:
There are easy, well-maintained trails you can stroll through, and you'll see native hardwood forests, wetlands, and prairie lands. There are often guided mindful walks, but it's not difficult to do a self-paced visit. As you hear the birdsongs, see the butterflies, and breathe in the trees, you'll feel grounded in the moment.
If you're in senior independent living, then you may already be familiar with group wellness classes. Otherwise, you can seek them out yourself by going to the YMCA.
This organization has active older adults (AOA) programs that are specifically designed for those over 55. They're focused on holistic wellness, meaning that you'll improve your cardio strength, social connections, and brain health.
Activities here include:
Not only will you get to keep up with your physical wellness, but you can reduce isolation and loneliness too.
If you've got ailments that prevent you from being as active as you'd like, then a good alternative is gentle chair yoga. You can take classes by having someone come teach you at home, or you can log on for virtual sessions.
Either way, you'll enjoy accessible, low-impact exercises that can enhance:
If you have chronic conditions like arthritis or COPD, instructors can modify their classes to accommodate these issues.
As far as outdoor activities for older adults go, an outstanding destination is Oak Point Park. It's not actually in Dallas, but rather, Plano, which is a 30-40 minute drive away.
It's worth the drive though, as the park provides a scenic retreat. It has paved and soft trails that are under 5 miles long, making it ideal for both solo strolls and walking clubs.
There's also a lake here, where you can:
Make sure to practice good sun safety so you have a good time and don't risk exacerbating health issues.
As you can see, you can participate in several wellness activities in Dallas. Not only can you boost your physical fitness, but you can also uplift your mind and spirit.
Just make sure to check the schedules and register (if necessary) before you head out. That way, you can avoid disappointment.
If you're interested in senior living in Dallas, TX, then get in touch with us today. The Bentley Senior Living has spacious, pet-friendly apartment homes available.