By AMY RICKER
Great Bend Post
The natural process of aging can present challenges to many people. While staying active is an essential component of ongoing health, if your strength, flexibility, and balance are not what they used to be, exercise could be problematic.
“Stay Strong, Stay Healthy” is a workshop that focuses on increasing strength and flexibility in a safe, structured, and practical training program.
Cottonwood Family and Consumer Science Agent Donna Krug says each class will have upper and lower body strengthening exercises.
“There are strength training exercises that are similar to what you would do if you had an injury and were in therapy. The movements are slow like wide-leg squats and glute extensions,” explained Krug.
The 8-week program in Great Bend begins on March 16 and ends on May 6 at the Great Bend Activity Center. The class will meet each Tuesday and Thursday from 10 – 11 am. The Ellis class will start on March 9 and conclude on April 29.
Krug says that all fitness levels are welcome.
“Regular exercise like stretching and slow movements are what people need. There are also walking programs that I do a lot of. Those are all targeted to get people moving,” says Krug. “Research has shown that overall health benefits from those type of programs for people with chronic health conditions or recovering from an injury.”
Participants will need to complete a pre-assessment before the first class. Masks will need to be worn into the facility but will not need to be worn during the exercise session as everyone will be spaced at a minimum of 7 feet apart.
To reserve your spot in Stay Strong, Stay Healthy, call the K-State Research and Extension office at 793-1910.