Sticking to a fitness schedule can make for better, and faster, results from your fitness program.  Getting and staying active is beneficial for people of all ages, but the added benefits of mobility and stronger bones make it an even more worthwhile endeavor for seniors.  The problem is that too many seniors get side tracked from their fitness routines because of the lack of a solid plan or definable schedule.

Things change for you as you get older, there are less things that you need to be “on time” for – no job, no alarm clock, less regular activities and less meetings with friends means that you aren’t bound to any kind of schedule – and though that may sound like a blessing, it can really turn your world and your health upside down if you aren’t careful.

If you find yourself having difficulty getting out and getting the activity you need on a regular basis, you need to develop a plan, complete with a schedule (preferably written down so you can actually feel and see it and be held accountable if you fail to meet it).  Try it and you’ll be surprised at just how effective the simple act of writing down a regular schedule can be in terms of keeping you active in your fitness plan.

It also helps if you are in an independent or assisted living community that has regularly scheduled activities to participate in – or a facility like the Wilsonville that has a physical fitness program that residents can participate in to ensure that they get the activity they need to remain mobile and healthy.  A fitness plan can be incredibly beneficial, but the only way it will actually lead to any positive benefits is if you follow it regularly.

photo credit: koalazymonkey