YMCA offers exercise programs at four sites
MONROE COUNTY — January is a popular month to begin an exercise program. Monroe County residents age 60 and older can take free exercise classes through the Monroe Family YMCA. Enhance Fitness sessions are offered at four area locations.
Amanda Schmitz, marketing director for the local YMCA, answers some questions about the program.
Q: When did Enhance Fitness begin at the Monroe Family YMCA?
A: 2016
Q: What are the goals of Enhance Fitness?
A: The goals of the program are to encourage physical activity, energy and sustained independence. This exercise program uses simple, easy-to-learn movements that motivate individuals with arthritis and other issues of aging to stay active throughout their lives. Participants overcome the obstacles of living with aging issues and revitalize their well-being within a safe community of support.
Q: When did the new group begin?
A: Participants are able to join on a rolling basis.
Q: What are some of the things participants do in Enhance Fitness sessions?
A: The class focuses on exercises that build strength, flexibility, movement and balance. The program is designed for participants to move at a comfortable pace. Some people stand and others are seated or use a chair for support.
Q: Who can attend?
A: Any Monroe County resident age 60 and older.
Q: About how many usually attend?
A: Around 120 participants per week, spread among four sites throughout Monroe County: Bedford Senior Center, Frenchtown Center for Active Adults, Monroe Center For Healthy Aging and Monroe Family YMCA.
Q: What do participants say about Enhance Fitness?
A: Participants report benefits of the program, include increased energy, better balance, increased body strength, more flexibility and range of motion, better sleep, more feelings of happiness, a sense of independence and an opportunity for socialization.
Q: Is it still free for all, even non-members of the YMCA?
A: Yes, all sites are free for Monroe County residents ages 60 and older, thanks to the generosity of financial support from the Monroe County Commission On Aging’s Senior Millage.
Q: Was Enhance Fitness created by the Monroe Family YMCA, or is this something that is offered elsewhere?
A: Enhance Fitness is an evidence-based program developed by the University of Washington in partnership with Sound Generations in Seattle, Wash. (formerly known as Senior Services) and Group Health Cooperative (now Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc).Q: Do you have anything to add?
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A: We are currently seeking individuals interested in becoming Enhance Fitness instructors, with paid training available. For more information, contact Amanda Schmitz at amandaschmitz@monroefamilyymca.org or 734-241-2606, ext. 229.
Enhance Fitness schedule:
8:15-9:15 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at Bedford Senior Center, 1653 Samaria Road in Temperance
1-2 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at Frenchtown Center for Active Adults, 2786 Vivian Road in Monroe
10-11 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at Monroe Center for Healthy Aging, 15275 S. Dixie Highway in Monroe
10-11 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at the Monroe Family YMCA, 111 W. Elm Ave. in Monroe
This article originally appeared on The Monroe News: YMCA offers exercise programs at four sites
