There's a new trend in the fitness business: medical fitness centers are attracting more of the older crowd. More adults over the age of 55 are getting attuned to the health benefits of fitness and are looking for a center that will help them. According to the Medical Fitness Association, there are now more than 550 such centers in the U.S. and Canada.

The Association reported that nearly half of medical fitness center members are 55 or older, compared to less than 14% of members in commercial clubs. Medical fitness center members consistently rank "improving health" as the most important reason for joining a center, in contrast to improving appearance, which is a driving motivator for younger people. The older members ranked the presence of clinically trained and certified staff as the most important attribute of medical fitness centers.

Such centers are usually affiliated with a healthcare system or hospital. To find one near you, ask your health plan or the hospitals in your area.

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