Web Exclusive Finding Workout Buddies

Web Exclusive...

By: Sarah Mahoney | Source: AARP.org | March 16, 2005

You're more likely to stick with a sport if you can connect with people who share your interest. Thanks to the Internet, finding them has never been easier. Here are 17 websites to get you moving.

For general information:

The American College of Sports Medicine publishes body-fat and heart-rate calculators, healthy aging tips, and an excellent electronic newsletter.

The American Council on Exercise, which certifies personal trainers, has an extensive library of healthy recipes and specific exercises for any body—or body part. It also offers guidance on choosing a gym, trainer, or exercise routine.

The Active Network has a site that links millions of exercisers with events and clubs around the country, whether you're looking for a cricket match or fencing lessons.

Roughly 10 percent of the YMCA's members are over 55, so most Ys offer programs targeted specifically to over-50 exercisers. Some offer discounts as well.

The National Senior Games Association organizes events in 49 states in mainstream competitive events, such as golf, track, or softball, as well as regional passions, like candlepin bowling.

For more on specific activities:

Swimming

The Red Cross offers classes to fine-tune your swimming techniques and U.S. Masters Swimming runs clubs around the country.

Walking/Running

The Road Runners Club links local chapters to help you find races, clinics, and running buddies. For specific training tips, try www.runningplanet.com. Got a secret marathon dream? Since it started in 1988, 220,000 participants of Leukemia Team in Training events have raised over $500 million. Participants—many who can barely run a mile when they sign up—get four to five months of personal training, instant teammates, and all the encouragement in the world.

Hiking

The Sierra Club organizes supervised hikes—some easy, some more challenging. (On the website, select "my backyard.") Feeling more ambitious? Get maps and ideas about how to tackle a portion of the Appalachian Trail, which stretches from Maine to Georgia.

Dancing

Dance is hot right now, including swing, salsa, Celtic, tap, and ballroom dancing. If you can't find what you want at a local dance studio, check out www.dance.thelinks.com, a site that brings together dozens of dance resources. The U.S. Amateur Ballroom Dancers Association can hook you up with local classes.

Tennis

The U.S. Tennis Association recently launched a program to help people—including those 50 and over —get back into tennis, linking up local tennis clubs that can find you lessons, partners, and tournaments. Enter your Zip Code in the box up top.

Golf

At www.playgolfamerica.com, your Zip Code connects you to local clubs, lessons, and age-specific tournaments.

Rowing

The Masters Rowing Association provides training tips and seminars to polish your technique.

Additional Related Links:

Follow Along With Mitch and Debbie: Web Fitness Diary

Get Fit Tips

How'd I Get So Fat? (January & February 2005)

Breaking Free: Dropping Bad Habits After 50 (January & February 2005)

Calculating Your Body Mass Index

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