We rely on good balance a lot in our day-to-day lives. It helps us walk with ease, climb stairs without stumbling, sit down and stand up, and even dance to our favourite tunes. It isn’t until we start to lose this faculty that we realize how much we need it. So we asked Sam Casmey, Manager of Adult Health & Fitness Programs here at the YMCA of Greater Toronto, to share her advice for building balance while you’re at home right now.

Regular exercise that gets your blood pumping is important for people of all ages, but older adults in particular have a lot to gain. Cardio can strengthen your heart and lungs, boost your energy, and even reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. To help you tap into these benefits, we asked Sam Casmey, Manager of Adult Health & Fitness Programs here at the YMCA of Greater Toronto, for some tips to safely get your heart rate up at home.

One of the reasons I became a personal trainer was to help others. I know from personal experience that leading a healthy lifestyle is a never-ending journey that requires commitment, self-discipline and a burning desire that keeps you from quitting.

Did you know that more than 40% of participants drop a fitness class shortly after it begins if they attend on their own? But if they work out with a friend, the dropout rate decreases to 6%. This suggests that social support encourages physical activity. Beyond the benefits of social interaction, working out with a friend is one of the best ways to keep you accountable, work harder, and stay focused on your goals. In fact, having the right workout buddy can often be the difference between failure and success. Here are 5 reasons why you should consider working out with a friend: