1. health and fitness

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the SilverSneakers® Fitness Program (SSFP)?
SilverSneakers® is a fun, energizing program that helps older adults take greater control of their health by
encouraging physical activity and offering social events. The SilverSneakers® Fitness Program (SSFP) is offered
in partnership with select health plans at no additional cost to Medicare-eligible members. Each member is
entitled to a “basic” membership at contracted SilverSneakers fitness center. At the Tulane University Reily
Student Recreation Center, the “basic” membership includes the SilverSneakers® classes, guidance from
qualified fitness instructors and Program Advisor, social activities, methods to help you track your health
progress, health education seminars, the newsletter and the use of fitness center amenities such as swimming
pool, saunas and indoor track. Personal training, special instructional programs, towel service and monthly
locker service are at an extra cost and available only if you want to pay the additional fee.
What is a Program AdvisorSM and what does she do?
Program Advisors are employees of the participating locations. As experts in older-adult wellness, they are the
most qualified people to assist you with enrollment, tours and equipment orientation. Program Advisors are
usually available Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. In addition to assuring quality service,
the Program Advisor serves as a contact for you – answering questions and helping to make sure you always
feel comfortable and welcome. Facility orientations conducted by appointment. Contact Debra Mouton, Reily
Center, Program Advisor at 504-247-1275 or email to dmouton@tulane.edu.
Do I need to see a Physician before enrolling?
Please consult with your physician before beginning any exercise program. By carefully reading and
completion of the Healthways Waiver and Assumption of Risk form, you expressly assume all risk for your
health and well-being and expressly assume the other risks associated with participating in the Program.
Please note, we do not have health care professionals on staff. You should seek your physician’s advice on all
health-related questions.
What are SilverSneakers® classes?
SilverSneakers® classes are total-body conditioning classes designed to increase muscular strength,
endurance, range of movement, flexibility, balance, agility and coordination. They range from 45 to 60
minutes. Class options are [SilverSneakers Classic (formerly known as MS-ROM Muscular Strength and Range of
Movement), SilverSneakers Yoga (formerly known as YogaStretch), SilverSneakers Circuit (formerly known as Cardio
Circuit) or SilverSneakers Splash (formerly known as SilverSplash)]. Land classes typically involve the use of handheld weights, elastic tubing with handles and a small exercise ball. In some classes, a chair may be available for
seating or additional support. SilverSneakers® classes are taught by certified instructors who are specially
trained in creating fitness programs for older adults. All SilverSneakers® class instructors are
accredited/certified/licensed, CPR/AED certified, aware of the procedures to follow in case of emergency as
well as undergo a comprehensive training and certification process to become a SilverSneakers® instructor.
Unlock the door to greater independence and a healthier life with SilverSneakers structure classes.
What other type of exercise can I do at your location?
If you like to work out on your own, the Reily Student Recreation Center provides access to treadmills,
ellipticals, rowing machines, weight room equipment, recumbent & stationary bicycles, swimming lap lanes,
basketball and all the amenities included in a “basic” fitness membership. You can also attend exclusive
SilverSneakers classes or non-traditional SSFP classes like Line Dancing, PiYo50+, Ball, Balance & Beyond,
PiYo50+ and/or Cardio Dance designed specifically for Active Older Adults-50+ (AOA50+). These classes vary in
intensity and offer multiple formats to fit your personal needs and interests. Or, at a fee, you can contract a
Personal Trainer for a more individualized program.
How do I know if I am eligible for the SilverSneakers® Fitness Program?
All eligible individuals for the SilverSneakers® program should have received a Healthways/SilverSneakers® 16digit code or card:
Full Name
0000-0000-0000-0000
At the Reily Student Recreation Center this card is only good as proof of eligibility and you should bring it with
you when you enroll. After completing an application, the Reily Membership Office will issue you a Reily key
tag in order to gain access to the facility. If you have not received a card, contact Healthways customer service
at 888-423-4632 for more information.
What do I have to do to join today?
A membership packet to join the Reily Student Recreation Center SilverSneakers® program can be obtained by
visiting the Membership Services office (Reily Center - 2nd floor). Your application packet should include:
Reily Center Membership application (2-sided-document)
Healthways Waiver and Assumption of Risk
A Membership Services associate will also need to photocopy your eligible Healthcare Provider member card
or Healthways/Silver Sneaker 16-digit code ID and a picture ID.
What do I need to know about starting an exercise program at the Reily Student
Recreation Center?
 Check with your Physician
 Wear comfortable, breathable clothing appropriate for fitness and rubber-soled shoes (not blacksoled).
 Have a water bottle with you during exercise, and drink often
 Bring your own towel to ensure personal hygiene (towel rental is available at a fee)
 Remember to listen to your body. It is okay if you need to slow down and rest
 Always take a few minutes to stretch before and after exercising
 Daily self-serve lockers are available at no charge for storing belongings.
What if I am visiting from out-of-state or another local fitness center?
No problem. You are welcome to use any of the more than 11,000 participating locations nationwide. When
you travel, simply visit the SilverSneakers® Fitness participating facility locator at their website at
www.silversneakers.com. Your primary membership will be at the fitness center where you originally joined.
When you visit the Reily Student Recreation Center you will need to present your Healthways 16-digit code
card or Healthcare Provider member card, a photo ID and complete a Guest Waiver.
Did we answer all your questions?
If not, contact Debra Mouton, Senior Advisor, Reily Student Recreation Center at 504-247-1275 or email to
dmouton@tulane.edu, visit the SilverSneakers® website at www.silversneakers.com or call your healthcare
provider’s customer services number.