Silver
Silvers wrap exercise in a disguise, as the idea of pure exercise is unappealing to them; in fact, having an alternative purpose keeps them engaged in the activity. Silvers enjoy activities that are convenient, requiring minimal process and planning. Silvers are attracted to new ideas, possibilities, and activities with others. They enjoy variety and tend to cycle through fitness passions. Or, they might avoid the temptation of novelty and keep their exercise program routine and simple.
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Energized by new ideas and possibilities, Silvers eagerly embrace novel concepts and respond to a world of opportunity. Silvers find little that doesn’t interest them. They’re quick to see connections and build on ideas. Silvers enjoy being with people who share their enthusiasm and can contribute to their projects and activities. With so many interests, exercise for its own sake can be boring. It’s best when taken out of the context of pure exercise and wrapped in the guise of something else, such as a challenge, an adventure, an exploration, or spending time with people.
Active Silvers fall into one of two categories: Make It Central or Keep It Simple. When a physical activity takes on a central role, there are likely several layers of experience and achievement to disguise pure exercise for a Silver. For example, training for a marathon with a group, skiing or biking with friends, walking meetings with colleagues, or competitive ballroom dancing. In each case there are multiple enticements and hooks; Silvers will get their exercise along the way. And with their intuitive natures, Silvers can naturally make the mind/body/soul connection and might be attracted to exercise with that as a component. Keep It Simple Silvers, who do not make exercise central in their lives, find exercise success by keeping activities uncomplicated, unremarkable, and easy to accomplish. These Silvers might even become rigid in their program, in contrast to the flexible approach they apply to the rest of their lives, convinced that if they deviate from their routine—or try to improve on it and change it—it might fall apart.
For Silvers with active friends and family, physical activity can become an operating principle in their lives, with positive momentum overpowering any resistance. They approach this lifestyle with enthusiasm and gusto, and rarely miss a day of exercise, even when it’s piled on top of an already full schedule. For Silvers whose interests often pull them in so many directions, many report that regular exercise makes them feel more balanced and in control of their lives.
Convenience is a must. The more decision points Silvers must navigate, the less appealing exercise becomes. Whether they belong to a fitness center, practice yoga or tai chi, or run in the park, Silvers don’t want to spend too much time in transition. Their schedules are tight and time is valuable. Convenience, after all, relates to flow—moving from one activity to another with little effort—much the way Silvers connect ideas.
A stimulating environment, connecting with people around training programs, possibly taking the lead in setting up a training schedule—these can keep a Silver’s interest high. With their busy lives, many Silvers also enjoy exercising alone, finding satisfaction and balance in reflection. A walk at night, a run along the bike path, or solo time at the gym provides an opportunity to be with their thoughts and clear their busy minds.
Advice for Silvers
Biking
The convenience of starting a ride from your front door makes biking a natural choice. Group rides also provide the consistency you need to fit biking into your busy life while adding an appealing social element.
Cardio Equipment
You prefer to get your cardio workouts outdoors but will use a machine as a backup. Meeting friends at the gym and planning something fun for after the workout can help motivate you.
Dancing
With your flair for drama and love of music and self-expression, you may enjoy many types of dance. Saksa, folk, flamenco, swing, and ballroom can be great fitness options.
Group Fitness
Look for fun, social classes. Flexibility is important for you, so find a fitness center that has a variety of classes where you can drop in as your schedule allows. A positive instructor and upbeat playlist will help distract you.
Running
Running requires minimal process and can be done anywhere. This activity provides the biggest bang for your buck—an important consideration with your busy life. Running with others is a great way for you to socialize, maintain accountability, and keep up your momentum.
Strength Training
Straightforward programs can be boring for you, so look for interesting and sociable environments. This is most likely accomplished by working with a trainer, or by disguising exercise through activities such as yoga and pilates.
Walking and Hiking
One of the most convenient activities, it can be done virtually anywhere and requires only a good pair of shoes. Walking also lets you explore your environment. Keep coordination for group outings simple.
Yoga and Tai Chi
Silvers gravitate toward yoga and tai chi for the mind-body connection. These practices provide intellectual and spiritual interest while stressing balance and peacefulness. Taking a regular group class will help keep you accountable.
- Notice signs of inactivity, such as aches, pains, stiffness, or soreness. Activity helps relieve these symptoms.
- Don’t wait until conditions are perfect. Just begin your activity and see where it takes you. Once you start working out, you’re more likely to continue.
- It’s not about exercise. Disguise activity with something more appealing—make it part of something that’s enjoyable and engaging.
- Keep transitions and practical requirements minimal, and restrict decision points to a few. Don’t get sidetracked along the way. For example, go to the gym in workout clothes to avoid wasted time in the locker room.
- Choose activities that will provide an opportunity to explore and learn something new.
Group Ex Classes
The Y offers more than 5,000 group exercise classes per year! Find a class at your family center that’s perfect for your fitness color and schedule.
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