Although the long days of summer present a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, seasonal heat can make maintaining a regular fitness routine more challenging. At Ingleside, residents have access to indoor fitness classes, social movement programs, wellness resources, and personalized support that make it easier to stay active safely all year long. We spoke with Emily Harkness, Fitness Manager at Westminster at Lake Ridge, about how Ingleside helps residents keep moving when temperatures rise and why group fitness can be such an important part of wellness.
How can older adults adapt wellness and fitness programming during periods of extreme heat?
“When the weather gets warm, it can be easy to say, ‘I’ll exercise tomorrow; it’s just too hot today,’” Emily says. “But at Ingleside, we make it easy to stay active and exercise safely indoors, so the heat doesn’t have to be an excuse!”
“From our daily, in-person fitness classes held in the studio and indoor pool, to our fitness center where you can walk on a treadmill while taking in the breathtaking scenery of Zion, there are plenty of ways to stay moving,” she adds. “If a resident prefers to exercise in the comfort of their own home, we also offer prerecorded fitness classes that you can enjoy whenever it works best for you.”
That flexibility helps residents choose the setting, pace, and type of movement that works best for them on any given day, especially during stretches of extreme heat.
“No matter your fitness level or preferred workout style, there’s an option for everyone,” Emily says. “And remember, even just 10 minutes of exercise a day is better than none at all. So, when the temperatures rise, keep moving, stay cool, and make your health a priority!”
What kinds of indoor wellness opportunities help residents stay active?
At Ingleside, wellness extends beyond the fitness center and includes a wide range of programs that support different interests, abilities, and experience levels. Depending on the community and schedule, residents may participate in options such as:
- Tai Chi to improve balance, coordination and flexibility through slow, controlled movements.
- Yoga to enhance strength, mobility, breathing and relaxation.
- Aerobics classes that promote cardiovascular health while being mindful of different fitness levels.
- Group dance and salsa classes that combine exercise with fun, music and social engagement.
- Strength and balance programming helps senior living residents maintain independence and confidence in everyday activities.
- Walking clubs and outdoor activities scheduled during cooler parts of the day when weather permits.
Beyond the physical benefits, what social or emotional benefits do residents experience in group fitness classes?
“Participating in a group fitness class offers more than just physical benefits; it can provide a mental and social boost as well,” Emily says. “Exercising alongside others can help keep you motivated, encourage you to challenge yourself, and make your workout more enjoyable.”
“When exercising on your own, it can be easy to think, ‘That’s enough for today,’” she explains. “But when you step into a group fitness class, the energy, encouragement, and camaraderie of those around you can inspire you to keep going and push a little further.”
The social connection is just as meaningful. “A fitness class is a great opportunity to catch up with friends, meet new people, and build a stronger sense of community,” Emily says.
“When a new resident joins a fitness class, it never goes unnoticed!” she says. “Residents are quick to welcome them, check in throughout the class, and share information about other classes happening throughout the week. This sense of community helps new residents feel comfortable, connected, and encouraged from the very beginning.”
Over time, those classes can become part of a resident’s regular routine. “Fitness classes also give residents something to look forward to and add to their calendars, making it easier to establish a healthy routine and build positive habits early in their time at Ingleside,” Emily says. “What starts as a workout can quickly become a favorite part of the week and a great way to connect with neighbors along the way.”
For more information on Ingleside communities and resident wellness programming, visit us online or schedule a visit today.