Page 48 March 2015 By Jean Hodgson If you had told me years ago that there would come a day when I was writing something about physical fitness, I would have rolled my eyes. I was the elementary school student who hoped the teacher wouldn’t make me play in the kickball game at recess so that, instead, I could read the next chapter in my book. I was the high school teen who was into music and the Future Teachers Club and never considered wearing an athletic uniform. I was the college freshman who checked out the minimum requirement for the mandatory PE course. Later on in life, the daily activities of my family and career kept me on the move physically; however, it wasn’t until a friend urged me to join her for a new neighborhood aerobics class that I was introduced to the benefits of planned physical activity. Lesson one: It’s never too late to begin! Senior adults, especially, are encouraged For Jean, fitness and fellowship is a winning combination. Continued on page 49 Three lessons in fitness One appointment. Expert doctors. Convenient services. 4350 E. Camelback Rd., Ste F100 Phoenix, AZ 85018 602.955.8700 • FPSAZ.com Because caring for your health has always been our passion, we’ve made the following services conveniently available in our office. • Excellent care for all ages • Same day appointments • On-site clinical laboratory and X-rays • Dermatology and Optometry services • Botox and Obagi skin care now available Celebrating 45 years of family care M-F 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 7 a.m. to noon. Mark A. Wyse, M.D. Kate Montgomery, FNP Allan Goldman, D.O. IMG_0897.JPG IMG_0900.JPG IMG_0898.JPG IMG_0901.JPG IMG_0899.JPG IMG_0902.JPG Lanterman Photo 602.577.1640 David Anderson, O.D. Optometrist David Francyk, D.O. T.E. McCauley, M.D. Tyler Southwell , M.D. Andrew Racette, D.O. Certified Dermatologist James Leap, PA-C Physician Assistant Alisha Archibeck, D.O. Jennifer Francyk, PA-C Victoria Rhodes, P.A. Walter Koppenbrink, M.D. Charles Levison, M.D. Thomas Rd. Indian School Rd. Central Ave. 7th Ave. • Open 5pm - 1am every night of the year • Treat newborns through 18-year-olds • Every patient seen by a pediatrician • X-ray and lab on-site • Accept most insurance and all AHCCCS • Discounts for cash payment • No appointment needed Arizona’s Only All-Night Urgent Care for Kids • Open 5pm - 1am every night of the year • • Every patient seen by a pediatrician • X-ray and lab on-site • Accept most insurance 3600 N. 3rd Ave, Phoenix 602-412-4033 Visit our website for additional locations: www.GoodNightPeds.com 3600 N. 3rd Ave, Phoenix 3600 N. 3rd Ave, Phoenix We Do Sports Physicals

Page 49 March 2015 Lesson two: Find an activity that is right for you! The Arcadia area has an abundance of options for older adults who want to be part of a structured program. Fitness centers include classes specifically designated for seniors, and the trainers I spoke with about their programs explained that most include adaptations for various levels and limitations. If you explore this idea, be sure to inquire about wellness programs that are included in your insurance plan. The yearly recreation pass at Devonshire Senior Center is $20 for residents and includes use of their fitness center, daily indoor walking from 8-9 a.m. and afternoon dances twice a month. The five-week winter session has no less than 17 exercise classes such as yoga, tai chi, aerobics, Zumba, and stretch and flexing. The adjoining Los Olivos Park has a walking path for some sunshine and fresh air, and optional stretching equipment with instructions for use along the route. None of us want to lose our ability to execute and enjoy everyday activities as we age. We don’t want to experience the health issues that can often be prevented or lessened by successful exercise to check with their doctor to be sure their exercise plan is appropriate for their individual needs and abilities. Most tips will include the ideas of starting slowly if your activity level has been low, incorporating stretching and having variety so you stay engaged. Fall prevention through balance exercises and core strengthening is a huge priority for older adults. Exercise for many of us does not mean running a marathon or an intense, strenuous workout at a gym. My college roommate tells me about her daily routine of walking in her house in the fierce winter weather in Idaho, but we are blessed with so many days when walking outside is an option. My membership at Curves has been the perfect match for me for many years now. As an incentive to keep participating, every 100 times you check in, you receive a purple shirt with the number of workouts you’ve completed. I may proudly wear my “500” T-shirt, but as I look around at other women, some significantly older than I am and sporting numbers of 1,000 and above, I am inspired to keep going with something that I am certain contributes to the quality of my life. The added benefit of socialization continues to be a motivator for this nonathletic member. An exercise buddy or the stimulation of a group activity can help fill a need that goes beyond physical fitness. Now What Continued from page 48 Canine and senior both benefit from exercise. Maybe YOUR home is the next... Contact editor@arcadianews.com choices. Which leads me to the next lesson. Lesson three: Start moving for a healthier you.