Veterans Fitness Program: Gerofit

Physical activity is a key component of nearly every health and wellness program, and it is especially important to aging seniors. This is why the Gerofit program has become a staple within 21 VA Healthcare Systems throughout the country. From Seattle to Baltimore, Veterans are improving their mental and physical health by taking advantage of this program.

Developed in 1986 by Dr. Harvey Cohen at the VA Medical Center in Durham, Gerofit is an individually programed, group-based exercise solution specifically for aging Veterans. It includes a variety of exercise modalities from tai chi to strength and toning classes and makes use of equipment ranging from treadmills to resistance bands to stability balls.

All Veterans are provided with a personalized program and guidance from trained exercise staff such as physiologists, nurses, and physical therapists.

Gerofit Locations

Gerofit can be found at the following VA Healthcare Systems:

Ann Arbor, MI
Atlanta, GA
Baltimore, MD
Boston, MA
Canandaigua/Rochester, NY
Cincinnati, OH
Coatesville, PA
Denver, CO
Durham, NC
Honolulu, HI
Little Rock, AK
Las Vegas, NV
Los Angeles, CA
Spokane, WA
Miami, FL
Murfreesboro, TN
Long Island, NY
Pittsburgh, PA
Puget Sound, WA
Salem, VA
San Antonio, TX

Some programs offer telehealth options for Veterans unable to attend classes on site. You can also connect with the National Outreach Physiologist if you want to participate but do not live close to one of the 21 flagship locations listed above.