The Hopedale Wellness Center (222 NW Grove St., Hopedale, IL 61747) is excited to announce a partnership with The Healthways SilverSneakers® Fitness program. SilverSneakers can help you get fit your way.  As a member you will have access to more than 11,000 participating locations nationwide, which now includes the 34,000 square foot Hopedale Wellness Center.

Proper nutrition and physical activity play a critical role as we get older. Millions of older adults are taking stock of their health and hitting the gym to get the physical activity they need to help keep their muscles strong and prevent many health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, colon cancer and high blood pressure. The SilverSneakers program is a fun, energizing way to get the activ¬ity you need to help you stay healthy and independent. Whether you enjoy walking on the treadmill, riding the stationary bike or taking group exercise classes like those available through SilverSneakers, it’s important to keep moving.

Here are some helpful tips for staying active:

• Engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate activity, such as brisk walking, on five or more days.

• Include strength training exercises in your regular workouts at least twice a week to improve and maintain muscular strength and endurance.

• If you have difficulty with your mobility, perform moderate amounts of low-impact activities such as swimming, water exercises or stretching.

• Gentle forms of yoga and tai chi help to promote flexibility, improve balance and increase strength.

The Hopedale Medical Complex and Hopedale Wellness Center are committed to promoting outstanding healthcare, healthy lifestyles, health education, and wellness. Visit HopedaleMC.com to learn more about the services offered at Hopedale Medical Complex, which is just 10 miles south of Morton, off Interstate 155 (Exit 19.)