Fresno seniors using virtual technology to keep fitness resolutions this year

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- You can find residents living in The Terraces at San Joaquin Gardens getting a workout-- both physical and mental. Cyber cycle is aimed at senior wellness and residents are gladly strapping into the cycling craze.

Fitness Coordinator Aj Castillo said, "It drives their competitive spirit and gets them on here and lets them have fun with that."

The bikes feature a virtual screen through more than 40 adventures, ranging from mountain biking to a ride through the city. Castillo said the bike helps promote the active lifestyle.

"They're not only using this bike but they're using some of the other machines, some of the strength training machines, they're finding their way on the treadmill."

According to a study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, combining physical exercise with computer-simulated environments and interactive video game features, can yield a greater cognitive benefit for older adults than traditional exercise alone.

"Since it's a virtual ride they're having to stay engaged throughout the entire ride," said Castillo.

The Cyber Cycle Program offers monthly competitions. Currently, number one in the New Year's resolution challenge is Lee Wheeler, who has already racked up 49 miles in the last two days.

Outside of tournament style riding there are still a group ride setting to keep riders ambitious.

"It's just more interesting than riding a bicycle," said Charlotte Maschke, rider.

Per doctor's orders after a knee operation, Maschke has been pedal pushing every day for the last six years. At 93-years-old she likes the challenge of riding through the redwood forest.

"It has a lot of curves, you ride through the trees, you go across a bridge down and up, so it's really more fun."

In the future, The Terraces plan to add more bikes and hopefully sponsor their own competition.