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`It's Never Too Late to Exercise' Church Workout Program Geared to Senior Set

Posted on: Friday, 11 February 2005, 21:00 CST

When John Philips Sousa composed "Stars and Stripes Forever," it's not likely he pictured a gym filled with seniors, all lifting their knees in time to his resounding march.

But that was the scene last August when "Fit Over 50" program made its debut through St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Newburgh. And the marching hasn't quit.

The program was developed as a way to boost the fitness level of St. John parishioners who have passed the half-century mark. A steering committee, which included a certified fitness instructor, a physical therapist and a physician, developed the program specifically with this age group in mind.

"We wanted to provide a safe place where participants feel comfortable and confident. Exercisers are among their peers, and each individual works at his or her own pace," said instructor Jackie Spring.

Indeed, participants in recent classes have run the gamut of fitness levels. While many attendees can perform most of the moves, accommodations are made for those who have range-of-motion limitations, heart-rate issues, or those who have trouble getting up and down. For exercisers who are just starting out or who have trouble standing for periods of time, chair exercises are offered.

"I think people our age just don't do enough," said recent exerciser Rose Miller.

Spring understands this problem and has good news for people who want to heighten their fitness level: "It is never too late to start an exercise program. Almost everyone can benefit from adding physical activity to their health-maintenance regimen."

The noncompetitive, relaxed environment has brought in a wide variety of participants. Hallie Amiel, 88, known to all as the Exercise Matriarch, brings her own hand weights and says that the class is a "tremendous motivator."

"There are a lot of swingin' old folks around here," laughed participant Diane Wilson.

"And being on a fixed income, a lot of us appreciate the affordability!" (The classes are free.)

Wilson also likes the fact that she and her husband can come together.

"I've exercised for years and firmly believe in it," she said.

"I'm so delighted with the numbers we see every week in class. This is such an asset to our area."

Rudolf Fischer is another regular at the sessions. A year ago he underwent bypass surgery with a valve replacement.

"This class is just what the doctor ordered," he said.

Lasting about 45 minutes each, the sessions are a mix of aerobic activity, strength training and gentle stretches. Occasionally, participants are invited to stay after the exercise portion and hear health-related talks given by local experts.

The popularity of the program has allowed the organizers to open it to the entire Newburgh senior community as well.

Originally held solely in the mornings, evening classes were recently added in order to accommodate the busy lives of our mature adults.

Spring is thrilled with the turnout and the positive comments she hears from exercisers.

"This is a special age group with special fitness needs," she said.

"Every week I'm approached by participants who credit "Fit Over 50" with improving their health. I'm so happy to be part of offering a program of this caliber to the Newburgh community."

Source: Evansville Courier & Press

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