Staying active can be a stretch for seniors, but a program in Marine Park aims to make it easy —with yoga.
A free fall program will give seniors 60 years old and up a chance to work up a sweat with twice-weekly yoga or tennis classes.
The six-week Seniors Fitness Program, organized by City Parks Foundation and sponsored by Airbnb, kicks off next week — Sept. 22 for the yoga classes, and Sept. 23 for tennis.
Exercise is particularly important for seniors, because it improves more than just their physical fitness, according to the foundation’s sports program manager.
“Exercise is essential at all ages, but it is especially important for seniors who, in general, tend to lead more sedentary lifestyles,” said Jonathan Gamberg, who coordinates the City Parks Foundation’s activity programs. “Even in moderate amounts, exercise can help participants feel better mentally and emotionally, maintain or lose weight, reduce risk of heart disease and diabetes, and minimize the symptoms of arthritis.”
But it’s not just about fitness. Gamberg said the program also gives seniors a chance to socialize.
“Often as people age they get lonely, which can lead to unhappiness or depression,” he said. “The Seniors Fitness Program provides seniors the opportunity to be more social and meet new people, while getting outside and having some fun.”
Gamberg said seniors should dress in weather-appropriate workout clothes. And wearing shoes with support is essential — especially if participants have medical conditions like diabetes, which can impair circulation.
Seniors can register on the first day, or beforehand by printing out the registration form available on the City Parks Foundation website and mailing it in.
City Parks Seniors Fitness Program in Marine Park. Yoga at the Salt Marsh Nature Center (Avenue U and E. 32nd Street). Beginning Sept. 22. Mondays and Wednesdays at 9 am. Free. Tennis at the tennis courts (Avenue S and E. 32nd Street). Beginning Sept. 23. Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11 am. Free.
