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12/01/2021 07:30 AMExercise classes have long been a part of the Senior Center curriculum since its inception and with some recent additions, the center’s programs are now offering an array of offerings for every mobility and skill level.
Senior Center Director of Programming Ellie Gillespie said the programs are an integral part of not just the center’s programs but critical for the overall health of every senior.
“Exercise is vital to the senior population for many reasons. As we grow older, our day-to-day level of activity decreases and unfortunately so does our fitness if we don’t keep an eye on it. Exercise is good for all the obvious reasons of keeping the bones, muscles, and heart strong,” said Gillespie. “It’s also great for the brain and helping with balance so seniors don’t fall. Then there is the socialization part, which is so important for cognitive and emotional wellbeing, for making friends and feeling connected to the community.”
According to Gillespie, participants report they find the classes invigorating and an essential part of their health regimen. She also said anyone interested is welcome to sit in on a class to see whether they like it.
“Exercise is also a great way to manage stress. The feedback we get is that they feel stronger, can move better and they keep signing up month after month,” Gillespie said.
Director of Senior Services Austin Hall echoed Gillespie’s sentiments on the power of exercise for seniors.
“Exercise classes for seniors are important for many reasons. First and foremost, the socialization is vital for seniors. Other important benefits are, balance, strength, increased performance in activities of daily living as well as numerous health benefits,” said Hall. “We offer exercise programs that all seniors can participate in. Yoga, chair yoga, tai chi, seated tai chi, Boot Camp, chair exercise, and many more.”
Below are the exercise offerings from the center:
Stretch & Balance: Participants can join a brand-new class on gentle stretching and balance. Instructor Amy de Lucia-Ferri is eager to help residents regain their flexibility and balance with some exercises that will help members feel better and safer. The course runs six weeks on Thursdays from 10:45 to 11:45 a.m. from Dec. 9 through Feb. 3 (no class on Dec. 23 and 30 and Jan. 6). The fee for Madison residents is $60 or $70 for non-residents.
Tai Chi: This Chinese discipline is a low impact holistic exercise intended to bring harmony and grace to everyday living. This regimen focuses on basic principles, and these practices strengthen and align the body to restore balance and regulate the core functions of one’s physical and emotional body to promote relaxation, ease of movement and peace. Instructed by Karen Strawson, the six classes are held Wednesdays from 1 to 2 p.m. from Dec. 1 to Jan. 5. The fee for Madison residents is $52 or $62 for non-residents.
Yoga Plus: Amy de Lucia-Ferri teaches a gentle nurturing yoga class meant to encourage building strength and flexibility of the body through gentle flowing yoga sequences. She also includes building strength and flexibility of the mind through mindfulness practices and breathwork. The course runs six weeks on Thursdays from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. from Dec. 9 through Feb. 3 (no class on Dec. 23 and 30 and Jan. 6). The fee for Madison residents is $60 or $70 for non-residents.
Seniors in Motion: Seated and standing exercise intended to increase muscle tone, joint flexibility, and cardiovascular strength. Classes run monthly on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Friday. Prices vary as to the number of days the class runs per month.
For more information, call the Senior Center at 203-245-5627 or view the center’s full offering of programs and classes at www.madisonct.org/seniors.