Fitness a year-round resolution at Eagle’s Trace

According to a Nielsen survey, nearly 70 percent of all New Year’s resolutions are either to “stay fit and healthy” or “lose weight.”

Many residents of Eagle’s Trace have made achieving their fitness goals a year-long activity, empowered by on-campus resources and the ability to create an individual plan.

Jim Hughes has lived at the Erickson Living retirement community in west Houston with his wife, Mauree, for more than two years.

A member of the health and wellness committee, he looked to begin a water aerobics program designed specifically for men.

He crafted a proposal, discussed the idea with committee members and then promoted the project throughout the campus.

“Water aerobics is such a great all-body workout. The water provides low-level resistance that makes the exercises even more effective in firming and toning muscles and improving cardio health,” said Jim, who worked in the financial services industry in Texas prior to retirement.

Under his guidance,

the one-hour class is held three times per week in the indoor heated pool at Eagle’s Trace.

“There are a dozen men who are regular participants, and we are always welcoming new residents to join us,” he said. “Another added benefit is socialization.

“We enjoy each other’s company and provide encouragement to push forward.”

The water aerobics class is just one offering of a comprehensive program available to residents of Eagle’s Trace.

They have complete access to a fitness center that is conveniently open 24/7, stocked with free weights, cardio machines and strength training equipment, and the aquatics center also includes a hot tub next to the pool.

“I use the weight and resistance machines in the fitness center as part of my regimen,” Jim said. “Everything you could possibly want is right here, conveniently located near your apartment home. And the trainers are excellent.”

Shirley Woods, fitness coordinator at Eagle’s Trace, oversees these offerings.

Her job is to help residents achieve personal goals, in part by balancing expectations and reality.

“Jim Hughes is a tremendous role model for us at Eagle’s Trace. Through his enthusiasm and organizational skills, he shows the many advantages for older adults to either have or begin a fitness routine. I’ve seen balance and overall demeanor improve quickly as well as better test results for blood pressure and cholesterol,” Woods said.

A certified trainer with more than 30 years of experience, Woods teaches exercise classes that include tai chi, pilates, yoga, water aerobics and the Ageless Grace program.

It’s all part of the integrated health and wellness program at Eagle’s Trace that includes an on-site medical center.

For those committed to a New Year’s resolution involving fitness, Woods recommends that her residents check with a physician.

Once cleared, embracing a variety of activities and classes is a must.

“People of all ages tend to take too much on at one time. Instead of resolving to get to the gym seven days per week for an hour, begin by working out three days per week for 30 minutes, for example,” Woods said. “Incremental change, whether it’s to lose weight or improve diet, is the way to go for long-term results.”