From yoga to water aerobics, Oak Park is full of fun and friendly fitness options that keep seniors moving and feeling great.
Park District of Oak Park
A diverse selection of fitness classes is available through the Park District of Oak Park’s Lifelong Learning Program, which is designed for adults aged 50 and older. The list of fun and engaging classes includes basic fitness, dancercise, yoga, line dance, Tai Chi, mat Pilates, Zumba, Double Dutch and walking club.
“Our basic fitness and line dancing classes are hugely popular,” said Ann Marie Buczek, director of marketing and community engagement for the Park District of Oak Park.
Buczek said anyone is welcome to sign up for the classes, with no membership required—though becoming a Lifelong Learning member is encouraged, since the classes are then free.
“When people join, they get to know one another and participate in classes together,” Buczek said. “It’s a really nice community.”
For more details about the classes offered, visit https://pdop.org/programs/lifelong-learning/
In addition to fitness, the Lifelong Learning program also includes a wide variety of arts & crafts classes and recreation opportunities. Membership costs $52 per year. For more information, call 708-725-2000 or visit https://pdop.org/programs/lifelong-learning/
West Cook YMCA
Seniors can stay active and have a blast at the West Cook YMCA. They currently offer six water fitness classes, as well as open swim times for independent water activities. Other options include a senior strength class, a balance and mobility class and yoga classes.
“The majority of the time those classes fill up to capacity so I would say they’re well attended,” said Bruce Ferguson, West Cook YMCA’s lead fitness instructor. “It is our intention to expand these offerings as we move into the fall as well.”
The West Cook YMCA is also a partner of the Renew Active program. Offered by UnitedHealthcare, the program provides free access to YMCA memberships with select Medicare plans.
For more information about activities for seniors at the West Cook YMCA call 708-383-5200 or visit https://www.westcookymca.org/
Rock Steady Boxing
Rock Steady Boxing is a non-contact boxing program designed specifically for people with Parkinson’s disease. It aims to improve quality of life through exercises that enhance balance, strength, agility, and overall fitness. The program is tailored to accommodate individuals at various stages of the disease, ensuring a safe and effective workout. It’s offered at more than 800 gyms worldwide, including one right here in Oak Park. Last year, Rock Steady Boxing was rolled out at The Tennis and Fitness Centre, 301 Lake St.
Laurie Berggren, fitness director at The Tennis and Fitness Centre said the program entails fast footwork, strength, balance and stretching.
“They’re punching and kicking heavy bags. They’re doing speed footwork drills. They’re lifting weights and doing strength work like lunges, squats, step-ups and lateral movements,” Berggren said. “They are activating parts of their brain that are activated through high intensity training.”
For more information about Rock Steady Boxing at The Tennis and Fitness Centre, call 708-386-2175.
West Suburban Medical Center
Free exercise classes, including Building Balance, Tai Chi, and Lunchtime Yoga are available for adults ages 60 and older through the Senior Center at West Suburban Medical Center, 3 Erie Court, Oak Park. For more information, call 708-383-6200 or visit 708-383-6200.