1. Try New Activities

Even if your fitness routine includes tried-and-true forms of exercise, such as walking to improve mobility, it's fun to mix things up. All kinds of group fitness classes are offered in Glendale to help stave off boredom.

The Glendale Adult Center, just a few miles from LifeStream at Glendale, offers classes such as Zumba, tai chi and total-body workouts. You can also try water aerobics at the Foothills Recreation and Aquatics Center.

2. Benefit From Professional Guidance

While you can do strength and stretching exercises in your independent living apartment, skilled instructors ensure you're moving safely and comfortably in class. They can show you the proper form for using hand weights or correct your yoga poses. They can also tailor exercises so you progress confidently at your own pace. Every group class at the Fitness Centers at Glendale Community College, for example, offers modifications to accommodate all fitness levels.

3. Make Exercising a Habit

It's easier to make physical activity a part of your routine when you join an exercise class. Because sessions are offered at set times, you can add them to your calendar and have a plan for when and where you're working out each week. For example, make an early class part of your morning routine and kick-start your day.

4. Expand Your Social Circle

Fitness classes for older adults connect you to peers at a similar life stage. They're a natural setting for camaraderie, as you share a laugh with the person beside you or swap tips on the best place to get running shoes in Glendale. It's also easier to get to know people if you have something in common. You can transition from your exercise session to a friendly cool-down walk in the Arizona sunshine or lunch at a café.

5. Find Inspiration

Group-based exercise programs can give you the motivation to stay on track with your fitness routine. You're more likely to attend class if you've signed up for it and an instructor is expecting you. And as you start to see familiar faces, the social interaction, shared energy and encouragement can provide the get-up-and-go spark you need.

6. Improve Your Physical and Mental Health

It doesn't take long to reap the benefits of group exercise. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a single session of moderate physical activity delivers immediate rewards such as improved sleep, reduced anxiety and lower blood pressure. Additionally, regular physical activity can improve heart health, improve balance and coordination, strengthen bones and reduce the risk of dementia and cancer.

7. Be Part of the Community

Local community centers usually offer more than exercise classes. If your health plan includes the SilverSneakers® benefit, the Glendale Adult Center will provide you with a center membership at no extra cost. This allows you to participate in SilverSneakers fitness programs and other services. Use the ceramics kiln, play bridge in the game room or get creative in the art room. It's a great way to meet your Glendale neighbors and stay engaged in the community.

8. Have Some Fun

Exercising with a group is just plain fun. Instead of thinking of your workout as a chore, join a class and soak up the lively atmosphere. The catchy music, enthusiastic instructors and vibrant group energy will have you smiling and looking forward to exercising. You don't have to leave our independent living community to get started, either. Check out the activity calendar at LifeStream at Glendale and try a group fitness class today.