Getting Into the Swing of Things
Retirement is an ideal time for concentrating on the hobbies and activities that you've always loved but perhaps haven't had the time to pursue. Number one on the list of many is golf, and after a long and tedious winter, golf enthusiasts at GreenFields of Geneva have been anxious to hit the links.
Although golf seems like a leisurely and relaxing activity, the truth is that it provides excellent, low-impact exercise. Simply the walking component helps to keep golfers in shape, improves circulation, increases endurance and strengthens the knees. Twisting and swinging the golf club helps the body to remain limber and flexible
In order to help golfers prepare for their favorite season of the year, GreenFields' exercise physiologist AJ Alfrey developed a golf-training program. The four-week class was designed to help golfers improve their strength, flexibility and balance, and increase muscle endurance and club speed. At the conclusion of the program the class went to the driving range and hit balls, even though the temperature outside was barely above freezing. Alfrey designed an exercise packet with illustrations so that the golfers can continue with the workout during the golf season.
The residents who enrolled in the program are all experienced golfers but have never participated in targeted training such as this. "They've kept in shape for golf, but have never done specific exercises to improve their golf game and they've loved it,” said Alfrey.
In addition to the obvious physical benefits of golf, there are important social and emotional components as well. Bob Knott, a resident of GreenFields was formerly a marketing executive. “I retired at the age of 55 and that first year, I played 160 rounds of golf,” he said. “Now I golf whenever the sun is shining and I'm in the mood.”
Knott said that he also spends time working as a ranger at Mill Creek Golf Course. “I get people off of the tees, usually on the weekends. I ask people if they've played here before, and I tell them about the course, yardage markers, the speed of play that we like to see, etc.,” said Knott. “I enjoy people and I get to meet a lot of nice people this way.”
A great aspect of golf is that it's one of the few intergenerational sports activities that encourages the participation of almost any age group and certainly either gender, on a level playing field. “It's fun to watch our golfers prepare for the season because they'll be playing with their kids and grandkids this summer and they're going to hold their own for sure,” said Alfrey.
GreenFields golfers have arranged a regular tee-time for the summer. “It's just a fun league, nothing serious. When we're done playing, we'll have lunch together and talk about our games,” said Knott. GreenFields has also put together two foursomes to play in the Chamber of Commerce's Lucky 13 Golf Outing in June, and have also sponsored a tee box.
With enthusiasts in many different areas, Alfrey is likely to develop a targeted class for any sport that the residents would like. “I'm always encouraging the residents to let me k now when they want to work on something specific,” he said.
GreenFields is an exceptional LifeCare community offering an ideal location, a retirement lifestyle you'll love, and the most comprehensive plan available for long-term care if ever needed. Sponsored by Friendship Senior Options, GreenFields is a sister community to Friendship Village, the largest retirement community in Illinois and the first to become accredited. GreenFields is located at 0N801 Friendship Way in Geneva. For additional information, visit www.GreenFieldsofGeneva.org.