HONOLULU (KHON2) — Retirement community, Kāhala Nui, celebrated its 20th anniversary in June with a $213,984 renovation to the on-campus fitness center.
Renovations included new commercial-grade equipment, upgraded flooring, improved ventilation and cooling, tinted doors and windows, as well as new mirrors, TVs and cleaning stations.
“Our goal was to create a fitness environment that supports the physical well-being of every resident,” said Melisa Altura, Kāhala Nui’s Life Enrichment Manager.
Inside the renovated fitness center
The renovation took four months to complete. Resident input and evidence-based design were prioritized by Altura and the team in charge of changes.
Altura said, “We approached every detail with care, taking the time to research, evaluate and select the best options to ensure the space is not only functional but also safe, efficient and welcoming for our community.”
Non-slip flooring, a more open layout, proper lighting and easy-to-use equipment with simple interfaces and ergonomic grips were implemented out of consideration for safety, comfort and functionality in the shared fitness space.
Kupuna fitness practices
Upon reviewing best practices in kupuna fitness and safety, the importance of balance training, low-impact cardiovascular equipment and strength-building exercises that support daily living was emphasized.
This aligns with guidelines from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and National Institute on Aging (NIA), which recommend a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity weekly for kupuna 65 years and older. At least two days of muscle-strengthening activities and three sessions of balance exercises each week are advised.
A statement from Kāhala Nui said, “Resident feedback directly influenced several elements of the renovation. Based on suggestions, the amount of cardio equipment was increased to better support individual workout preferences and reduce wait times.”
Exercises to improve health and ability
When performed safely, regular physical activity can boost mental health and reduce the risk of chronic disease. The following exercises are examples from NIA:
Aerobics:
- Dancing
- Swimming
- Bicycling
- Climbing stairs or hills
- Playing pickleball
Muscle-strengthening:
- Using resistance bands, weight machines or hand-held weights
- Lifting your body weight, with exercises such as arm circles, leg raises, pushups, pullups, planks, squats or lunges
- Carrying items, such as groceries
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Balance:
- Yoga
- Walking backward or sideways
- Practicing standing from a sitting position
- Using a wobble board