Volleyball Tournament at Village Park on May 5th
Calling all Creative Types! Science Center Hosts Maker Faire
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SOUTH FLORIDA SCIENCE CENTER AND AQUARIUM HOSTS MINI MAKER FAIRE
Creative Types Wanted for The Greatest Show (and Tell) on Earth
(West Palm Beach, Fla.) – The South Florida Science Center and Aquarium is hosting the third annual Mini Maker Faire Saturday, April 28th from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. This event embraces the spirit of the do-it-yourself movement and features local and regional makers sharing emerging tech, hobbies and experiments across a variety of categories.
This family-friendly showcase of invention, creativity and resourcefulness celebrates the Maker Movement by dedicating a place for people to show what they are making and share what they are learning with like-minded people. Tech enthusiasts, crafters, visual artists, scientists and tinkerers of all ages and backgrounds are invited to connect and grow together.
“This event will be part science fair, part county fair, and part educational,” said Kate Arrizza, CEO of the Science Center. “We’re always looking for ways to open every mind to science, and this is the perfect place to engage the community to tinker, build and grow their curiosity. This is an important opportunity to encourage makers of all ages and backgrounds to solve problems and engage their creativity, and we are so grateful to our sponsors for making this day happen.”
All ages are invited to experience DIY robotics, maker workshops, 3D printing, live science demos, local artists and so much more. Some featured Maker projects include bottle rocket launches by Aerojet Rocketdyne and Resource Depot, drone obstacle courses by FAU’s Tech Garage, and woodworking workshops by the Delray Beach Children’s Garden.
The original Maker Faire was held in San Mateo, CA in 2006, and has grown to more than 1,100 makers and 145,000 attendees. World Maker Faire New York, the other flagship event, has grown in four years to include more than 600 makers and 80,000 attendees. Cities all over the world, including Atlanta, Orlando, San Diego, Paris, Rome, Tokyo, and more, are home to larger-scale Maker Faires. In addition, more than 120 community-driven, independently organized “Mini Maker Faires” are now being produced around the United States and the world—including right here in Palm Beach County.
Sponsors for the Mini Maker Faire include Palm Beach Tech Association, Resource Depot, FAU’s Tech Garage, AR Design, MAKE: Magazine, Jaycon Systems, PCBWay, MaKey MaKey, Palm Beach County, the Cultural Council of Palm Beach County and Discover the Palm Beaches.
This event is included in regular admission to the Science Center, which is $16.95 for adults, $14.95 for seniors, $12.95 for children (3-12), FREE for children under 3, and FREE for members.
The mission of the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium is to “open every mind to science” and the indoor/outdoor venue features more than 100 hands-on educational exhibits, a 10,000 gallon fresh and salt water aquarium- featuring both local and exotic marine life, a digital planetarium, conservation research station, Florida exhibit hall, Pre-K focused “Discovery Center,” an interactive Everglades exhibit and the 18-hole Conservation Course – an outdoor putting course with science-focused education stations. For more information, call 561-832-1988 or visit www.sfsciencecenter.org. Like the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium on Facebook and follow them on Twitter and Instagram @SFScienceCenter.
The South Florida Science Center and Aquarium is located at 4801 Dreher Trail North in West Palm Beach and is open Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., and on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Admission to the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium during Astronaut is $16.95 for adults, $12.95 for children ages 3 to 12 and $14.95 for seniors aged 60 and older. Science Center members and children under 3 are free. Planetarium shows and mini golf are not included in general admission pricing.
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World’s Most Famous Hacker Headlines Science Center’s Annual Benefit
SOUTH FLORIDA SCIENCE CENTER AND AQUARIUM HOSTS WORLD FAMOUS HACKER
Kevin Mitnick spoke at Center’s Annual “Smarty Party” Benefit April 4th
(Palm Beach, Fla.) – Former FBI Most Wanted criminal, Kevin Mitnick shocked guests at the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium’s annual benefit at The Breakers Palm Beach when he demonstrated just how easily personal information can be acquired through little effort from a hacker, eliciting gasps from the crowd. Through his demonstrations, Mitnick explained the most vulnerable area of a security system is the human element.
Unlike a traditional dinner/dance benefit, the annual “Smarty Party” features a well-known guest speaker for an informative and entertaining evening. This year, the notorious hacker shared how he invaded nearly 40 major corporations just for the challenge, and how he has moved on from the FBI’s Most Wanted to a most-wanted cyber security speaker and top selling author.
“Kevin Mitnick was a fascinating and perfect fit for our mission to ‘open every mind to science,” said Kate Arrizza, newly promoted CEO of the Science Center while current president, Lew Crampton, does double duty for the community as a newly elected Town Council member. “His presentation resembled a technology magic show, including the latest techniques that educated, informed and likely terrified those in attendance, while keeping them on the edge of their seats.”
At the event, Crampton introduced Arrizza, congratulating her on her new position as CEO. “I am honored and humbled in my new role,” Arrizza said. She continued her speech, giving a call to the heart to raise funds for the Florida Forever Backyard at the Science Center, which will feature a Physics Forest, human sundial, dinosaurs and an Environmental Amphitheater, providing space for unique programs and seating for 300.
Guests took home a copy of Mitnick’s best-selling book, Ghost in the Wire: My Adventures as the World’s Most Wanted Hacker along with a raised awareness of security.
Event chairwomen were Mary Freitas, Elizabeth Gordon and Caroline Cummings Rafferty. Honorary chairs were Kathleen and Lew Crampton, Frances and Jeffrey Fisher, Helene and Matthew Lorentzen, and Heidi and John Niblack.
Other guests included Christine and Robert Stiller; Lynn and David Nicholson; Jeff Greene; LeeAnne LaBanz; Julie and Peter Cummings; Christina and Benjamin Macfarland; Suzanne and David Frisbie; Christopher Goldberg and Juliana Gendelman; Harvey Oyer; Lesley, Rick and Bennett Stone; Lucinda and Eric Stonestrom; Cathy and Dale Hedrick; Caroline and Tom Forrest; Barb and Dave Nuti; Nick Manifold and Kelly Klein; Sara and James McCann; Maggie Zeidman; Pandora and Robert Crippen; Deborah and Dan Cane; Sarah and Robb Allan; and Kate and Evan Arrizza.
Major sponsors of “The Science of Invisibility: An Evening with Kevin Mitnick” include Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Fisher, Mr. and Mrs. John Niblack, the Stiles Nicholson Foundation, Palm Beach Illustrated, PNC Bank, Mr. and Mrs. Robb Allan, Mr. and Mrs. Lew Crampton, Mr. and Mrs. Llwyd Ecclestone, Mr. and Mrs. Mark Freitas, Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Gordon, Mr. and Mrs. Stuart Haft, Mr. Amin Khoury, Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Lorentzen, Mr. and Mrs. James McCann, Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas Rafferty.
The mission of the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium is to “open every mind to science” and the indoor/outdoor venue features more than 100 hands-on educational exhibits, a 10,000 gallon fresh and salt water aquarium- featuring both local and exotic marine life, a digital planetarium, conservation research station, Florida exhibit hall, Pre-K focused “Discovery Center,” an interactive Everglades exhibit and the 18-hole Conservation Course – an outdoor putting course with science-focused education stations. Astronaut, the blockbuster exhibit on display until April, immerses visitors in life on board the International Space Station. For more information, call 561-832-1988 or visit www.sfsciencecenter.org. Like the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium on Facebook and follow them on Twitter and Instagram @SFScienceCenter.
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Wellington Celebrates Earth Day & Arbor Day this Weekend
Wellington Celebrates Earth Day & Arbor Day this Weekend
Enjoy a free day of fun and learning at Wellington’s Earth Day and Arbor Day Celebration, at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 Forest Hill Boulevard), on Saturday, April 21st, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
The event features more than 20 local vendors, earth-friendly products and demonstrations, free seedlings, give-a-ways, face painting, food trucks, a coloring mural, kids’ activities, and more. See a demonstration of proper tree pruning techniques, and enter a free raffle for a tree in a 15-gallon container. Children will also enjoy meeting Smokey the Bear and learning about recycling, composting, and respecting the Earth.
Visitors may also stop by booths highlighting the Wellington Garden Club, the Wellington Art Society, and Wellington’s Tree Board. This year, join the Village of Wellington Council as they plant a Bald Cypress Tree, provided by the Rotary Club of Wellington, in honor of Arbor Day.
Attendees are invited to remain at the Wellington Amphitheater for a Fleetwood Mac Tribute by Dreams: Crystal Visions of Fleetwood Mac, immediately following the Earth Day festivities. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. and guests are encouraged to bring their own seating.
Find more family-friendly events coming up in Wellington at www.wellingtonfl.gov/Events.
Wellington would like to thank Joe Dimaggio Children’s Hospital at Memorial for their support of this event.
As another way to stay informed on the latest news and updates from the Village, residents are invited to sign up for Wellington information and updates at www.wellingtonfl.gov/enews.
For information about other Wellington programs, events, activities, and updates, please visit www.wellingtonfl.gov or watch WellingtonTV for the latest happenings.
Choral Masterpieces Through the Ages
The Choral Society of the Palm Beaches culminates 56th season of singing with
“ Choral Masterpieces Through the Ages”
A collection of Leonard Bernstein’s great choral performances, evocative music
Student winners from The Society’s “Young Artist Vocal Competition” to perform on program
April 11, 2018 – Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. – The Choral Society of the Palm Beaches is pleased to announce an exciting program that highlights ageless music and young vocalists in its final concert of the season: “Choral Masterpieces Through the Ages.” The 70-member, not-for-profit chorus, takes the stage 4 p.m. Sunday, April 29 at Florida Atlantic University’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Auditorium, 5353 Parkside Dr., Jupiter, Florida. Tickets are $25; $10 for students.
“Choral Masterpieces Through the Ages” promises a diverse performance of selections from folk to contemporary, headlining Leonard Bernstein’s great choral repertoire, including the chorale from “Mass” and other evocative music for chorus and piano. The vivacious, eclectic program features luminary compositions including “Sure On This Shining Night” by Morten Lauridsen, to words by James Agee; “The Seal Lullaby” Eric Whitacre; and “Earth Song” by Frank Ticheli.
Led by its dynamic Artistic Director S. Mark Aliapoulios, and accompanied by Pianist Erikson Rojas, the 70-member chorus will perform an exciting selection of choral performances to commemorate Leonard Bernstein’s 100th year of musical genius. A highlight of the concert, are planned performances by the 2018 winners of The Choral Society’s Young Artist Vocal Competition – Skyler Sajewski, of Palm Beach Gardens, and Alexandra Slusarenko, of Wellington, awarded first- and second-place honors, respectively, and earned scholarship awards, in the nonprofit’s 5th annual competition. Both are students at West Palm Beach’s prestigious Alexander W. Dreyfoos School of the Arts. Ashlyn Taylor, 18 and Dylan Melville, 17 were honored with the Director’s Award for exceptional promise and merit and will also perform on the program.
Featured on the program in a poignant, unified voice for peace, is The Choral Society of the Palm Beaches’ moving performance of “This Will Be Our Reply To Violence,” lyrics by Bernstein and music by Aaron Robinson: “This will be our reply to violence: to make music more intensely, more beautifully, more devotedly than ever before,” – Leonard Bernstein
For more information about The Choral Society of the Palm Beaches, visit www.choralsocietypalmbeaches.org, or call: 561.626.9997.
MISSION: The Choral Society of the Palm Beaches is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit corporation that brings quality, live music to the community. It values the importance of supporting young artists and is dedicated to providing scholarships and prizes to high school seniors for excellence in choral music performance
Mother’s Day and Father’s Day Ideas
Teen Talk
Mother’s Day and Father’s Day Ideas
By Gianni Giordano, a 6th grade student at Eagle Arts Academy
When the time comes for Mother’s day and Father’s day I like to make my mom and dad lots of paper crafts. So now I’ll share some fun and creative gifts or crafts you can give to your mom and dad. For one I think that you should make your parents breakfast in bed. For my mom’s most recent birthday (which was on a Monday), I woke up early and made her bacon, eggs, and waffles with syrup for her breakfast in bed. I’m sure that your parents will appreciate this, since they have fed you and made meals for you ever since you were born. I think it’s a way for you to repay them for their kindness. Or you can make them papercraft diys. For instance my dad likes to golf, so I made him a tiny paper golf course out of cardboard. So whatever your parents may like, make something that you know they’ll appreciate. Whether their gifts would be made out of cardboard or paper or just a breakfast in bed. Just show them that you appreciate them.
Wellington Cares…Helping Seniors
Wellington Cares
By Anya Millard, 6th Grade, Eagle Arts Academy
Wellington Cares is a non profit organization that helps people 65 and older. They provide seniors food, make them feel safe and take care of them. They can set up doctors appointments, provide transportation within the Wellington area, although they are hoping to expand in Royal Palm, Boynton Beach and more. They also provide hospitality and will call on seniors every day to check up on them. If a patient is weak, volunteers or staff from Wellington Cares can do some errands for them. The patients can also call just for a conversation because it can be very lonely sitting in a house all day.
Wellington Cares does this because most people can’t afford to get available assisted living or memory facilities in the area. Luckily, Wellington Cares is free, but they do take donations if you would like. The people who provide these services are all volunteers. They have 52 volunteers and 58 patients. The patients can call anytime and get to know their assigned volunteer not just as a person who can help them, but also as a friend. They also have a few bilingual volunteers.
Wellington Cares was started by Kathy Foster. It all started when she found a magazine that read, “ What is NORC?” NORC means “Naturally Occurring Retirement Community.” As Diane Gutman said “we are NORC organization.” They have been providing since 2010. They have many sponsors such as: Wellington Regional Great Charity Challenge, FPL and more. Wellington Cares was part in the Great Charity Challenge for equestrians. They have been chosen 3 times to be recipients of the funds.
We talked with Diane Gutman and she provided me and my class with a lot of important and interesting information. If you choose to volunteer you can even work from home. Before they help people they don’t really know, they will do a background check on them. They have a food pantry where people can donate food. Diane told us that if patients have a type that they like, the staff and volunteers from Wellington Cares can usually find it, or at least something close, in the food pantry. Diane told us that one of her patients loves olives. Sadly, she can not afford any. So, when that person needs more food they use some of the money from donations and get some olives for her.
In conclusion I would recommend anyone and everyone volunteer for Wellington Cares, especially if you are worried about someone in your family who is 65 or older. If you are a minor and would like to volunteer, then you have to bring a parent too. They are a very big help to seniors, and who knows? Maybe in a couple of years they will be worldwide and not just in Florida. Do the right thing and help your fellow citizens. Maybe one day you too might need some help.
More information:
Website- WellingtonCaresOrg.com
Phone number- (561) 568.8818
Email- wellingtoncaresllc@gmail.com
Free Earth Day Event at Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens on April 22
EARTH DAY ACTIVITIES AT ANSG SPOTLIGHT MISSIONS OF LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS
FREE admission to Gardens for presentations to unveil new ANSG Field Guide
(WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.) – The Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens will host a free community day for the public in honor of Earth Day on April 22. The event will convene several local organizations who have formed an alliance to call attention to the day’s significance and educate the community on actions they can take to protect our earth.
Designed to embrace Ann Norton’s vision for maintaining an urban preserve that supports the coexistence of art and nature, Earth Day at the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens will spotlight the missions of ANSG, Audubon Florida, Everglades Foundation, Loggerhead Marinelife Center, Manatee Lagoon – An FPL Eco-Discovery CenterTM, Pine Jog Environmental Education Center and the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium, among others, with interactive learning stations, garden and exhibit tours and a fun discovery hunt through the Gardens with prizes for participating families.
“Ann Norton described the Gardens as her legacy to the community − encompassing an environmental showplace intended to display her nine monumental sculptures and the work of visiting artists amidst her collection of over 250 native plants, rare palms and cycads,” said Roger Ward, president and CEO of ANSG. “She defined its purpose as an educational museum and urban sanctuary for the public’s enjoyment of art, gardens and natural history. She would love the idea of this celebration and we are grateful to our partners for their collaboration.”
Participants in the discovery hunt will be invited to sign a #earthdayeveryday pledge – taking action over the next year to participate in sustainable activities in an effort to protect the planet. Families will use the Gardens’ new Field Guide, Guide to the Gardens, to debut during the Earth Day activities, to lead their discovery hunt exploration through the interactive learning stations and the Gardens’ two-acre sanctuary.
An initiative of the ANSG Gardens Conservancy, the Guide to the Gardens offers visitors a guide to Ann Norton’s gardens and artwork, with a history of the location and a pictorial guide to its sculptures, and rare palms and cycads. The new guide is presented in partnership with FPL, The Gentlemen of the Gardens, Manatee Lagoon, The Gardens Conservancy, Cultural Council of Palm Beach County and Discover the Palm Beaches.
“The Gardens Conservancy gratefully dedicates this Guide to the vision of Ann Weaver Norton,” said Frances Fisher, ANSG board chairman and founder of the ANSG Gardens Conservancy. “The unique educational opportunities offered by the Gardens have inspired many thousands of nature lovers, art enthusiasts, environmentalists, families and students. We are grateful to our partners for embracing the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens and for the opportunity to inspire generations to come to experience its magic and beauty.”
The Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens is located at 253 Barcelona Road in West Palm Beach. Parking for the event is available on neighborhood streets or the adjoining lot at Palm Beach Day Academy. For more information, please visit www.ansg.org or call 561-832-5328.
ABOUT THE PARTICIPANTS:
Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens:
The historic Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, Inc. is a nonprofit foundation established in 1977 by the prominent sculptor Ann Weaver Norton (1905-1982). The two-acre sanctuary is comprised of rare palm and sculpture gardens, Ann Norton’s historic home and exhibition galleries, and Norton’s own Wyeth-designed artist studio. Located at 253 Barcelona Road in the historic El Cid neighborhood of West Palm Beach, the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens are open Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Gallery and garden exhibition talks are available on Wednesdays at 11 a.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. For information, please visit www.ansg.org or call 561-832-5328.
Audubon Florida:
For more than a century, Audubon has encouraged people to take care of the places that make Florida special. Using science to guide our work and birdlife to measure ecosystem health, Audubon works to protect land, water, and wildlife. Today, Audubon is Florida’s most influential conservation organization and leads efforts to preserve the Everglades, coastal bird habitats, and other special places. Audubon manages sanctuaries that cover thousands of acres along with two popular nature centers. Audubon also promotes stewardship and appreciation of public land and water so people experience and cherish Florida’s natural beauty. For more information visit Fl.Audubon.Org or call 305-371-6399.
Everglades Foundation:
The Everglades Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to leading efforts to restore and protect the greater Everglades ecosystem. Since its founding in 1993 by a group of local outdoor enthusiasts, the Foundation has become a respected and important advocate for the sustainability of one of the world’s most unique ecosystems. For more information, please visit EvergladesFoundation.org.
Loggerhead Marinelife Center:
Loggerhead Marinelife Center is a non-profit sea turtle hospital that promotes conservation of ocean ecosystems with a focus on threatened and endangered sea turtles. The center features an on-site campus hospital, research laboratory, educational exhibits and aquariums, and also operates the Juno Beach Pier, a pier that hosts world-class fishing and sightseeing. Situated on one of the world’s most important sea turtle nesting beaches, Loggerhead Marinelife Center is open daily and hosts over 300,000 visitors each year. For more information, visit www.marinelife.org or call (561) 627-8280.
Manatee Lagoon – An FPL Eco-Discovery CenterTM
Manatee Lagoon – An FPL Eco-Discovery Center™ offers visitors engaging opportunities to learn about the threatened and unique Florida manatee and the Lake Worth Lagoon ecosystem it inhabits. The center hosts field trips for science programs, offering site-based enrichment and educational activities. Visitors will also understand the role power plants play in supporting the species. The warm-water outflows from the adjacent FPL Riviera Beach Next Generation Clean Energy Center attract hundreds of manatees each year during cold winter months. The waterfront facility provides opportunities for the public to learn more about these marine mammals and what is needed to protect their environment. The 16,000-sq.-ft. center offers free admission, two levels of exhibit and meeting space, a boardwalk to observe manatees in the Lagoon, picnic area, pavilion and gift shop. Manatee Lagoon hosts myriad educational and recreational activities from yoga and art classes to a Junior Aqua Lab and an environmental lecture series. For more information, go to VisitManateeLagoon.com.
Pine Jog Environmental Education Center
As one of the first environmental education centers in Florida, Florida Atlantic University’s Pine Jog Environmental Education Center (FAU PINE JOG) is also among the oldest in the nation. Established in 1960 to provide a natural habitat to teach children about the environment, Pine Jog Environmental Education Center entered into partnership with FAU in 1970 and is now a self-supporting unit of the College of Education. FAU PINE JOG’s mission is to research, develop and disseminate environmental education programs and services aimed at creating environmentally knowledgeable and responsible citizens of all ages. For over 50 years, FAU PINE JOG has been teaching people how to conserve and protect the earth. FAU PINE JOG provides direct and indirect services such as Everglades Literacy workshops, H2O to Go Summer Institute for high school students and the Green School Recognition Program to more than 40,000 people.
South Florida Science Center and Aquarium:
The mission of the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium is to “open every mind to science” and the indoor/outdoor venue features more than 50 hands-on educational exhibits, a 10,000-gallon fresh and salt water aquarium- featuring both local and exotic marine life, a digital planetarium, conservation research station, Florida exhibit hall, Pre-K focused “Discovery Center,” an interactive Everglades exhibit and an 18-hole Conservation Course – an outdoor putting course with science-focused education stations. Located at 4801 Dreher Trail North in West Palm Beach, the SFSCA is open Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call 561-832-1988 or visit www.sfsciencecenter.org.
#earthdayeveryday
I pledge to protect our earth by including at least 3 of the sustainability tips below into my daily routine in order to make a positive impact on our environment:
- Ditch the plastic: Forgo single-use bottled water; buy a fun reusable water-bottle and BYOW (bring your own water.)
- Pick it up: On your morning walk, consider picking up litter or beach trash, recycle it when possible, or consider making a found art piece.
- Bring the bag: Reduce plastic or paper bag consumption when shopping by bringing reusable bags to the grocery and convenience stores. Leave the bags tucked into your car so you don’t forget them.
- Say no to straws: One of the top 10 items found on the beach is the single-use plastic straw. Skip the straw or ask for paper straws the next time you order a beverage.
- What goes up must come down: Forgo balloon and sky lantern releases as these items are very often mistaken by wildlife as food, causing significant harm to the environment and wildlife.
- Which endangered species or habitat is your favorite? Learn about them and find ways to preserve them, because when they’re gone, they’re gone.
- Collect rain water and use to water your plants.
- Plant the Planet, but don’t use pesticides which may endanger plants, birds, animals and other wildlife. Carefully read the label before you buy.
- Recycle and repurpose as much stuff as possible! Don’t toss furniture, sports equipment, household items or clothing you don’t need anymore. Donate it!
- Create a garden based on the native flora and fauna of South Florida. Your garden can replicate a coastal community and consist of sea grape, sea oak, cabbage palm, sea lavender, Florida rosemary, and other endemic species. This garden will attract local wildlife – including bees and butterflies.
The Village Music Wellington 2018 Music Summer Camp
Does your child have a musical gift? Or, would you like for them to explore the possibility of one? Then, The Village Music Wellington 2018 Music Summer Camp is for you!
This year, 3 Music Camps will be hosted:
- June 11 – 16
- July 16 – 20
- August 6 – 10
(9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p . Monday thru Friday)
To learn more, click here.
Fitness Through the Ages
Health and Fitness
Fitness Through the Ages
By Cheryl Alker
Physical fitness is one of the most important factors that influence longevity in life, However, the exercise that was suitable for a 20 year old would not then apply to a 60 year old. So what factors should you be taking into account as far as your physical fitness goals as you age?
The first priority lies, no doubt, with your parents. Developing physical fitness habits as early in life as possible paves the way for better health in later life. Getting children involved in team and individual sports has so many benefits that it should literally never be up for debate. Finding their passion is key and that passion normally will be developed when they find something they are good at.
So what happens after childhood when high school or travel sports are no longer an option?
20s
During your 20’s your body is most susceptible to change, so it is during this period that rapid progress can be made in both strength and cardiovascular endurance. Workouts should be kept to a whole body approach working on all the elements of physical fitness, muscular strength, muscular endurance, cardiovascular fitness and flexibility. Take care of all of these factors with a sensible diet and your Body Mass Index (BMI) should take care of itself.
30s
During your 30’s you will begin to notice that you don’t achieve progress as easily as you did during your 20’s and injuries may start to arise. Whilst you should still maintain a high level of physical activity with a full body approach time needs to also be dedicated to recovering sufficiently to avoid injuries and burnout. Start to include regular massages into your workout plan and introduce a little less impact with cardio workouts.
40s
Our 40’s are often accompanied by many extra obligations. Our profession, family life, finances, home ownership etc. can place a huge strain on our time. Consequently, less time is dedicated to physical fitness and all to often our diet suffers also. Problems such as high blood pressure, chronic stress, depression or cardiovascular disease make beginning and maintaining regular physical activity even more crucial at this time in our life. Keeping cardiovascular exercises to low impact alternatives and focus more on free weights as opposed to machines so muscles are worked through full range incorporating all muscle groups involved in the action. This is a time to focus heavily on flexibility and core strength to provide mobility, stabilization and prevention of back pain.
50s
At this stage in your life you may need to begin to modify the type of exercise you choose to accommodate for physical limitations. For example, if you have been a lifelong runner, you may be unable to run as frequently as you used to or indeed be able to manage the longer distances. Not because the mind is weak, but after 50 years or so on this earth your joints will have started to show some wear and tear, especially if you were a road runner. This not only applies to runners but any sport that has been done for a number of years will undoubtedly result in wear and tear due to repetitive movements. This is the time to find a new primary exercise with less impact, maybe swimming, yoga, or pilates. If you focused on your flexibility in your 40’s your 50 year old body will thank you. As we age mobility is key, so flexibility is vital and should be given the respect is deserves.
60s
As you progress through your 60’s time needs to be dedicated to strength training. Strength is extremely important to overall health. The more muscle mass you maintain the more normal you hormone function and less energy will be needed to perform daily tasks. Equal strength between opposing muscle groups will maintain joint support and possibly help prevent injuries from events such as falls. Use your body weight for all strength based exercises and take up swimming, biking or walking to maintain cardiovascular health. Continue with flexibility and core strength exercises daily.
70s and Beyond
At this stage in your life the type of physical activity you chose takes back seat to the amount of daily activity you perform. Keeping moving is key here, sitting for long periods of time is your enemy. Having hobbies that involve movement, taking up tai chi or water based exercises are the way to go. Rule of thumb, just move!