Nice to hear from you. Your story is so relevant to my experience at the YMCA here in Atlantic, Iowa. The Silver Sneakers class is in a different setting, but we find the same sharing and community as we gradually improve our health and fitness. There are groups within the class who come as much as 30 minutes before class to secure chairs and visit. One day I joined a group discussing the demise of a friend who had been active in class and now had severe health problems. "Why do we bother?" one asked. "Because I feel better" I responded. "Well, maybe after we have our conversation." We will be expanding our Nishna Valley YMCA to create more space and opportunities for social events such as our pot lucks and "pick up" visits over coffee with an expanded lounge.
Ardyth! Great to hear from you and to learn about your Silver Sneakers. I've been surprised at readers' positive reaction that my story resonates so well with their exercise experience.
I don't know if the same happens with men in the same exercise room but whether together in a gym or someplace else, it seems natural for women to make such connections, share, and build community, and usually without a show of competitiveness. I'm glad your program was continued.
I’ve found good friends in the gym!
Rockie,
Nice to hear from you. Your story is so relevant to my experience at the YMCA here in Atlantic, Iowa. The Silver Sneakers class is in a different setting, but we find the same sharing and community as we gradually improve our health and fitness. There are groups within the class who come as much as 30 minutes before class to secure chairs and visit. One day I joined a group discussing the demise of a friend who had been active in class and now had severe health problems. "Why do we bother?" one asked. "Because I feel better" I responded. "Well, maybe after we have our conversation." We will be expanding our Nishna Valley YMCA to create more space and opportunities for social events such as our pot lucks and "pick up" visits over coffee with an expanded lounge.
Doing the same here, Ardy!
Ardyth! Great to hear from you and to learn about your Silver Sneakers. I've been surprised at readers' positive reaction that my story resonates so well with their exercise experience.
Great story! Very inspiring. I loved how you gave a you-are-there-rhythm with the instructor shouting "go!"
Thank you! I had fun writing the piece.
Love the title of your essay.
I don't know if the same happens with men in the same exercise room but whether together in a gym or someplace else, it seems natural for women to make such connections, share, and build community, and usually without a show of competitiveness. I'm glad your program was continued.
Yes indeed. Thanks for your comment Maureen.
Thank you for sharing your experience. It makes me want to get off my comfortable chair and finally look into my Silver Sneakers here in Phoenix.
Go for it, Marie!
Nice job, Rockie! (from J&J)
Thanks Jennie. I enjoyed writing the piece.
Like anything else you start, you eventually excel at! Love seeing you pop up on my socials. Wishing you well!!!