EnhanceFitness is a multi-component group exercise program designed for community-based organizations and intended to promote physical activity among older adults. The hour-long EnhanceFitness class is held over three sessions per week. Classes are taught by a fitness instructor nationally certified and trained in EnhanceFitness protocols. The instructor typically teaches at community sites, with senior centers the most likely setting.
EnhanceFitness (formerly known as the Lifetime Fitness Program) was developed and tested in 1994 by researchers at the University of Washington (UW) in collaboration with Senior Services (Northshore Senior Center), and Group Health Cooperative (GHC). The original study, published in 1998, found that participation in EnhanceFitness improved physical and psychological functioning in older adults, and was an effective way to prevent functional decline.