Lifetime Fitness

Lifetime Fitness

Lifetime Fitness

For many years people tried to understand the effects of exercise and physical activity on the human health. However, all understanding remained in the dark till Prof. T.K. Cureton established the Physical Fitness Research Laboratory in 1944. Adult Fitness Program was established shortly afterwards to continue the research initiated by Prof. Cureton which now operates as the Lifetime Fitness Program, directed by Prof. Ellen Evans with varied experience in exercise program management, clinical exercise, physiology body composition and bone health.

Lifetime Fitness Program has evolved to an easy-to-implement turn-key fitness program aimed directly at the senior market. Unlike most exercise programs currently offered in health clubs and fitness centers, the Lifetime Fitness Program is based on measurable results and is backed by research.

Its primary emphasis is to provide opportunities for structured group or individualized fitness activities. Cognitive understanding of the principles and techniques of fitness activities, a supportive non- competitive atmosphere, a pool of research subjects for study of selected aspects of physical activity and health for adults and an avenue for continued adherence to a physically active lifestyle after completion of exercise. Adults 55 and over are encouraged to participate in the Lifetime Fitness Program. The exercises and physical activity opportunities are specially designed to develop overall improvement in health, fitness and performance of activities of daily living.

Activities include structured and supervised walking, jogging, stretching and strengthening exercise using resistance bands, weight training using free weights and plate-loading equipment as also aquatic activities like swimming etc. Newer activities are included as participants desire to vary their modes of exercise. Participants are admitted at any time on a semester (fall, spring or summer) or on yearly basis. The Program runs concurrently with the academic schedule of the University of Illinois.

Fat burning machine: "Eating less or cutting back fat in your diet won't keep the weight off" - advocates the guardians of the Lifetime Fitness Program. "What you really need to do is to strike a good balance between the calories you consume and you burn". Also, with aerobic exercise, you can lose weight without drastically reducing calories you consume or sacrificing essential nutritional needs.

"Follow a moderate low fat diet", advices the program, "and an exercise program that combines aerobic activity and strength training. That is the key to losing weight - and keeping it off."

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