Best Community Exercise Programs for Seniors in Anchorage, Alaska | Stay Active & Healthy
A diverse group of people participates in a seated yoga or fitness class, stretching on colorful exercise mats in a spacious, well-lit setting.
Continuing regular physical activity and exercise is essential for maintaining overall health and preventing falls, especially as we age. Everyone has the potential to improve strength, balance, and flexibility at any age! Activities like walking, strength training, and balance exercises can enhance coordination, increase mobility, and build endurance, making it easier to navigate daily tasks and stay independent. By staying active, individuals not only boost their physical health but also improve their confidence, which contributes to a safer and more active lifestyle, reducing the likelihood of falls and injury. Regular exercise also helps reduce the likelihood of developing chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis.
Make It Enjoyable: The best way to stay consistent with exercise is to choose activities that are fun and engaging. Group exercise is a great way to add a social component and increase the fun.
For older adults in Anchorage, Alaska, there are numerous community resources available. Whether you're looking for a place to walk indoors during the winter months, participate in fitness classes, or meet others with similar goals, Anchorage has a variety of options to support active living for seniors. Here's a look at some of the best community exercise resources available.
1. B Fit & Well
B Fit & Well offers a fitness center dedicated to seniors and individuals of all abilities. This facility focuses on providing exercise programs that help older adults maintain their independence, improve mobility, and build strength.
What B Fit & Well offers for older adults:
Personalized fitness training to help individuals achieve their specific health and fitness goals.
Small group personal training
Fitness classes designed for seniors, including stretching, strengthening, endurance and balance.
Brain Heath Fitness enhance cognitive function through exercise
Rock Steady Boxing non- contact boxing designed specifically for people with Parkinson’s
Contact:
B Fit & Well
Address: 3934 Spenard Rd, ste B, Anchorage, AK 99517
Phone: (907) 529-1462
Website: www.bfitandwell.com
Email: bonnie@bfitandwell.com
2. The Dome - Alaska Sports Complex
The Dome at the Alaska Sports Complex is an excellent option for older adults who enjoy staying active in a climate-controlled environment. During the colder months, it can be challenging to maintain an exercise routine outdoors, but The Dome offers a perfect solution with its indoor walking track. It's a great place to meet with friends and walk or jog while avoiding the harsh winter weather.
What The Dome offers for older adults:
Indoor walking track: A safe, climate-controlled space for walking or light jogging year-round
Pickleball Court
Table Tennis
Free entry for seniors Monday, Wednesday, Friday 11am - 1pm
Free entry for seniors with an exercise prescription from a healthcare provider
Contact:
The Dome
Address: 6501 Changepoint Dr, Anchorage, AK 99518
Phone: (907) 770-3663
Website: The Dome - Home
3. Anchorage Senior Activity Center (ASAC)
The Anchorage Senior Activity Center (ASAC) is a vibrant hub for older adults, offering a wide range of fitness and recreational activities. ASAC focuses on promoting wellness and active living for seniors through group exercise programs and individual fitness opportunities.
What ASAC offers for older adults:
Exercise classes such as water aerobics, strength training, and yoga tailored to older adults.
Walking groups and social opportunities to encourage staying active and engaged with others in the community.
Contact:
Anchorage Senior Activity Center
Phone: (907) 743-7700
Website: www.senioractivitycenter.org
4. YMCA of Anchorage
The YMCA of Anchorage offers a variety of fitness programs that cater to older adults, including those with limited mobility or those just starting their fitness journey. The YMCA is a fantastic resource for seniors looking for safe, supportive fitness classes that improve strength, flexibility, and overall health.
What the YMCA offers for older adults:
Water aerobics classes that are gentle on the joints but still provide an excellent cardiovascular workout.
Tai Chi and yoga classes for seniors looking to improve balance and flexibility.
Contact:
YMCA of Anchorage
Phone: (907) 563-3211
Website: www.ymcaalaska.org
5. The Alaska Club
The Alaska Club offers an excellent range of exercise programs for seniors at its various locations across Anchorage. With a focus on making fitness accessible for all ages, The Alaska Club provides a supportive environment for older adults looking to stay active and improve their physical health.
What The Alaska Club offers for older adults:
Fitness classes such as chair yoga, stretching, and low-impact aerobics designed specifically for seniors.
Strength training classes to help build muscle mass, improve bone density, and reduce the risk of falls.
Swimming and water fitness classes, ideal for seniors looking for a low-impact workout that provides a full-body exercise.
Contact:
The Alaska Club
Phone: (907) 522-4500
Website: www.thealaskaclub.com
SilverSneakers®
SilverSneakers® is a fitness program designed for older adults, typically available through Medicare Advantage plans and some other insurance plans. It offers access to fitness centers, fitness classes, and online resources tailored to seniors. The program focuses on improving physical health and well-being by offering low-impact exercises that help seniors stay active and maintain their independence. SilverSneakers® classes may include strength training, aerobic exercises, balance and flexibility work, and even social events for added community engagement.
The following fitness centers in Anchorage offer SilverSneakers® programming:
YMCA of Anchorage (Lake Otis Location)
Planet Fitness (Benson, Dimond, and Eagle River Locations)
Anytime Fitness (Lake Otis Location)
If you're eligible for SilverSneakers® through your Medicare Advantage plan, these locations provide the perfect opportunities to enhance your fitness, improve balance, and meet new people in your community.
Conclusion
For older adults in Anchorage, staying active is essential for maintaining physical and mental health. Whether you enjoy indoor walking, water aerobics, yoga, or strength training, Anchorage offers a wide range of community exercise resources to help you stay fit and engaged. B Fit & Well, The Dome, Anchorage Senior Activity Center, the YMCA of Anchorage, and The Alaska Club, and all provide excellent programs for seniors that make it more approachable to stay active and healthy.
