The Silver Sneakers & Silver & Fit members have truly been a pleasure at the Eric Snow YMCA. They are committed to their health and fitness and make sure that they have fun doing it. They always greet us with a smile and a wave. Silver Sneakers Classic is the popular class attended, and when the class is over, it’s like school has just let out because they all come out at once laughing and smiling.
Some have even taken it a step further outside of the Silver Sneakers classes and participated in the JumpStart Program to help enhance their benefits with their wellness journey. Slowly but surely, within the past few months we have had an increase of new Silver Sneakers and Silver & Fit members join. They are truly enjoying the classes offered as well as the fellowship that comes along with it. We had our very first Silver Sneakers/Silver & Fit Appreciation day in May to let them know we appreciate their commitment to their health and setting an example for others that no matter what age, it can be done.
Phyllis Kinlow, Silver Sneakers member, says that not only has the classes helped her fitness, but so has the JumpStart program. The JumpStart program teaches members how to confidently use and set up all of the strength and cardio machines. “Back in the day we used to call it circuit training, which targeted strengthening the joints.” Since including the JumpStart into her routine, she says she notices that climbing the stairs aren’t as much of a challenge as they use to be.
Lee Schroeder, Silver Sneakers & Silver & Fit Instructor had this to say about the members;
“The most rewarding part of instructing the seniors exercise programs is the feedback that I get from the participants regarding their ability to perform everyday tasks without pain or discomfort. They tell me that they have more energy and that they are even more positive in their general disposition. I’ll hear comments like, “I can reach the ceiling fan pull cord, now” or “my knees and hips feel stronger and I can walk longer distances,” and “now I can keep up with my grandkids.” I make sure to tell everyone to work at their own level, and that they are SUCCESSFUL even if they can only do a few repetitions during the first few classes. When an exercise program is fun people tend to stick with it, and that is one of the most important things I stress, to have FUN! It’s my great pleasure to work with such a focused, goal-oriented, and fun group of people. “
As heartwarming as it is to see members grow and share their encouraging testimonies of how the YMCA helped them in some way shape or form, we only hope that it continues to spread and reach others that the YMCA is not just about members, it’s about family.
Crystal Winfrey-Ellington, Health & Wellness Director
Eric Snow Family YMCA