Boomers expected to create new fitness trends
December 8, 2010
As the iconic baby boomer generation retires, they are expected to bring with them an entirely new outlook to the golden years. One of these habits will be fitness, where they will swell the ranks of different sports and exercise classes.
The Kansas City Star reports that, with the senior population expected to grow to 80 million by 2040, many fitness centers are starting to develop specific activities for boomers that are moderate-intensity.
One of the favored sports in the coming years will be pickle ball (half-court tennis), because it is less of a strain on the body than other sports and still offers a solid workout.
“This is an aging segment of the population that understands exercise is important. It’s going to be a real growth industry,” Jack Plunkett, CEO of Plunkett Research, told the news provider.
Boomers will also start to join gyms in huge numbers and experts believe that some facilities would cater to the older crowd, according to The Star Tribune.
Exercise can not only be good for the heart, it can also help improve balance, which is a key factor to avoiding harmful falls. However, older adults may want to guarantee their safety by installing a personal emergency response system in their home. This device can be used to send a medical alert to a doctor if they require assistance.
