By Andrew Walker, MPH; NSGA Director of Health & Well-Being
“Team Dream” panel and screening at the National Senior Games in 2023.
Health and well-being resources for athletes and the broader community will be available throughout the 2025 National Senior Games presented by Humana. Key highlights include the Sustained Athlete Fitness Exam (SAFE), Optimal Aging Day in Iowa health exchange, a tai chi skill-building workshop for athletes and instructors, and a mental performance panel led by U.S. Olympians.
Additionally, the Iowa premiere of the award-winning documentary “Team Dream” will showcase the inspiring journey of two women from Chicago preparing for and competing in the National Senior Games. Watch the trailer here.
Athlete and Community Well-Being Events
Sustained Athlete Fitness Exam (SAFE)
Boost your sports performance with this research-based, Senior Games-specific assessment. The SAFE evaluation is a complimentary service for athletes, featuring personalized feedback and actionable tips to help you compete at your best. Assessments and education are available daily at the Mid-American Energy Company RecPlex from July 23–Aug. 2. View hours here.
Optimal Aging Day in Iowa
On Friday, July 25, athletes, families and community members are invited to the Optimal Aging Exchange, featuring interactive activities designed to enhance well-being. In partnership with the University of Iowa Csomay Center for Gerontological Excellence and local health providers, participants can access screenings, assessments and resources from 4:30-7:30 p.m. on the Iowa State Capitol grounds. This event coincides with the Mile for the Ages run/walk and the Flame Arrival Ceremony.
Tai Chi Skill Builder Workshop
Tai chi makes its debut as a sport at this year’s National Senior Games. On Friday, July 25, Master Kevin Sun will lead a fundamentals workshop for registered tai chi competitors and Taiji for Health instructors from 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. at the MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex.
Here’s why all athletes should try tai chi.
Team Dream Documentary Premiere
Join us on Saturday, July 26, for the Iowa premiere of “Team Dream,” an award-winning short film that follows two women swimmers from Chicago on a journey to compete and medal in the National Senior Games. After the screening, a panel and the audience will discuss themes of positive aging, women in sports and the role of physical activity in later life. This special event honors the achievements of the pioneering pre-Title IX women of the National Senior Games. .
Location and time to be announced.
Mental Performance and Guided Mindfulness Meditation
On Sunday, July 29, U.S. Olympians Thomas Hill (’72), Tom Lough (’68) and Gary Morgan (’68) will offer tips on mental performance for athletes. NSGA Director of Health and Well-Being, Andrew Walker, MPH, will guide participants in mindfulness-based stress reduction and meditation.
Location and time to be announced.
