The YWCA of Northwest Indiana has announced the start of Senior Fitness and Forever Active Classes designed to inspire the senior community to lead active and healthy lifestyles. These classes will cater to any fitness level and will offer a wide range of activities to keep the class engaged and active.
“We are thrilled to launch these Senior Fitness Classes as part of our commitment to promoting active and healthy lifestyles for our senior community,” said Executive Director of the YWCA Caren Jones.
The YWCA’s Senior Fitness Classes will feature Aerobics, Dance, and Strengthening sessions every Tuesday starting at 10:00 a.m. and Thursday starting at 11:30 a.m. These classes will be instructed by Glenda Clark of Mindful Movements.
There are many benefits to an active lifestyle including preventing or delaying many of the health problems that seem to come with age. Sometimes a healthy lifestyle can make you a better candidate for a lifesaving procedure as it did for Daisy Garner.
Several years after the death of Daisy Garner’s husband, she began walking in a local fitness center and participating in strength training classes. She met other seniors and together they encouraged and motivated one another. It made them all keep a routine and it made the whole experience more enjoyable.
One day the 77-year-old didn’t feel so great and was rushed to the hospital. Garner was diagnosed with an abdominal aortic aneurysm that had a great chance of rupturing without surgery. Several doctors were not optimistic because of its size, her age, and health.
However, one doctor with extensive experience repairing large aneurysms was willing to perform the surgery.
During the doctor’s assessment to determine whether Garner had the strength to undergo the surgery, the doctor felt reassured it would be successful when she learned Garner routinely exercised at the local fitness center. It has been nearly 10 years now since the surgery and Garner continues to exercise according to her ability.
In addition to the fitness class, the Forever Active Classes take place on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, starting at 10:00 a.m. The classes will be instructed by Coach Brandon Smith and will focus on Chair Aerobics, Resistance Training, Low Impact Movements and Strength Training.
“Our dedicated instructors bring a ton of experience and expertise to ensure that our seniors enjoy a fulfilling, safe and beneficial fitness experience,” added Jones.
Seniors in the community are encouraged to join these classes to continue maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle. The YWCA accepts Silver Sneakers for these classes, making them accessible to everyone. For more information about membership, call 219-881-9922.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as an older adult, regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health. It can prevent or delay many of the health problems that seem to come with age. It also helps your muscles grow stronger so you can keep doing your day-to-day activities without becoming dependent on others. Some physical activity is better than none at all.
