New Year’s Challenge: Jump in With a SilverSneakers Class

Get to know SilverSneakers. From strength training to yoga to EnerChi, we’ve got you covered for a fun full-body workout. 

Keep up with the Strong Body, Strong Mind, Strong You Challenge here and on our Facebook page. 

Now that you’ve tried out your dancing shoes with yesterday’s Energizing Cardio Dance Workout, it’s time to explore other fun ways to move. SilverSneakers group fitness classes take place at thousands of locations around the country.  

Don’t want or aren’t able to go to a gym for classes? Not to worry. You can take SilverSneakers LIVE online classes from the comfort of your home, too.   

The really cool part? Our classes are available at no additional cost for people over 65 through select Medicare Advantage plans. Not sure if you’re eligible? You can check right now by clicking here.  

Get to Know SilverSneakers 

SilverSneakers classes provide a structured, full-body workout designed specifically for older adults. Classes are led by supportive instructors who are trained in senior fitness. That means they’re familiar with the health issues many older adults face and know how to adapt exercises and movements to suit individual needs.  

You can learn more about the full program features by reading 11 Burning Questions About SilverSneakers — Answered! And discover what makes our instructors special here.   

There are lots of different ways to enjoy SilverSneakers classes:  

• Browse Community classes near you here 
• Find a participating fitness location here 
• View the current schedule of SilverSneakers LIVE online classes here 
• Check your eligibility here  

Not eligible for SilverSneakers? You can still get 200+ free SilverSneakers On-Demand videos and stay in touch with us by creating your online account.  

What to Expect in a SilverSneakers Class 

Every class begins with a warm-up that gets your muscles ready to move. A good warm-up also helps your mind transition from whatever you were doing and thinking before and helps you get in the right mindset for a good workout. After all, this is your me time! 

After you’ve warmed up, the instructor will transition into a period of moderate-intensity exercise. This is what SilverSneakers LIVE trainer Shannon Thigpen refers to as the “meat-and-potatoes portion” of the workout. Finally, every class ends with a short cool-down period, with movements that will safely return your heart rate to normal and stretch the muscles you’ve just worked.  

What type of exercise you will do depends on the class you take, so you might be focusing on strength training, cardio, yoga, or our distinctive SilverSneakers EnerChi tai chi sequences.   

Moderate-intensity exercise provides a boost for your body — plus, it plays a key role in your brain health. Regular physical exercise helps older adults improve or maintain key cognitive functions, such as the ability to shift quickly between tasks and make plans, according to the National Institute on Aging.   

And there’s something extra special about the social component of a SilverSneakers group fitness class, too, says Thigpen. Friendships are made every day at a SilverSneakers class, she says.   

Today’s short video (above) gives you a snapshot of what it’s like to take a class. Press play and watch as Shannon shows you what to expect, so you’re ready to get started — and have fun — no matter which class you choose.   

For a taste of a SilverSneakers class, you can find 10-minute versions of our popular SilverSneakers Classic workout here and here.  

As always, safety is key. Get your doctor’s OK before beginning a new exercise program. If you have a chronic condition (including osteoporosis), balance issues, or injuries, talk to your doctor about how you can exercise safely.     

Check Your SilverSneakers Eligibility Instantly 

SilverSneakers members can go to thousands of gyms and fitness locations across the nation, plus take SilverSneakers LIVE online classes that are designed for seniors of all levels. If you have a Medicare plan, it may include SilverSneakers—at no additional cost. Check your eligibility instantly here.  

Not eligible for SilverSneakers? You can still get 200+ free SilverSneakers On-Demand videos and stay in touch with us by creating your online account.