When it comes to the topic of senior fitness in the new millennium, suffice it to say that the days of the bean-shaped wading pool are over. Today’s 55-plus consumer demands all the amenities of high end health clubs, including pools with dedicated lap lanes and in some communities, submerged walking tracks that aid in rehabilitating knee, hip and joint injuries.

Take the case of a 71-year old distance runner from Ridgewood, N.J. named Barry Reid. He’s been running for almost 40-years, making it his official “hobby” after retiring at age 62. He just learned to swim this year and plans to compete in all legs of a a local triathlon this year, keeping a detailed training journal to maintain an optimal fitness level throughout the year. And how does he feel about fitness? “Training for a triathlon is so motivating and inspiring,” Reid said. “I feel blessed to be healthy and to be able to run everyday, pushing my athletic ability to be the best that I can be.” This certainly sounds like someone who’s not hanging up their running shoes any time soon.

It’s hard to believe but Sylvester Stallone, who as Rocky Balboa inspired thousands to get out and break a sweat back in the 70’s, will turn 65 years old next year.  Still a huge proponent of physical fitness and starring in box office hits the last couple years, Stallone easily looks 10 years younger than his age, and it’s easy to imagine a person like him engaging in a wellness-filled lifestyle very unlike his peers of yesteryear.

Like Barry Reid and Sylvester Stallone, seniors throughout North American are experiencing longer life spans as a result of their lifelong commitments to exercise, diet and greater mental well-being. And it’s a reality CCRC senior communities are quickly learning they need to accommodate if they want to appear on their prospective resident’s short lists.

Looking to get on, and stay on your prospect’s short lists? Stevens & Tate Marketing and Endora Digital Solutions, specialize in senior living advertising and has provided innovative marketing solutions for numerous Senior Living and CCRC communities throughout the Midwest, the East Coast and South Eastern states.