SilverSneakers keeps senior citizens fit

COLUMBUS -- Though not as agile as they used to be, these exercisers are still hitting their strides.

Using resistance bands and weights, the group took cues from Columbus Family YMCA Fitness Director Jennifer Brownlow as they participated in the muscular strength and range of mobility class.

They did light marching, rolled their shoulders and then stepped to the side. Later, while seated in a chair, they worked on their strength and balance, working their biceps and triceps muscles.

The senior exercisers are members of the SilverSneakers Fitness Program, a nationwide program designed to promote physical activity and healthy lifestyles for older adults.

The Columbus YMCA has had the program for about two years.

Currently, the group has 18 members at the Columbus YMCA.

One of those is Bev Schroeder of Stromsburg. When the weather permits her to drive to Columbus, the 69-year-old typically attends classes two or three times a week. She particularly likes the water class and the strength and mobility class which helps with her flexibility. There also is a Start and Stay Fit class.

Brownlow said all of the classes are low-impact and are designed to help seniors with their mobility and to help keep them feeling young. The classes aren’t just for seniors, but also are good for those just getting started in exercise or for those recovering from hip and knee surgeries.

Schroeder said belonging to the group provides her with a sense of accountability when it comes to exercise.

“I’ve always done a lot of walking, but I’ve found that I’m less motivated to get out and walk now than when I was younger,” she said.

SilverSneakers was established nationally in 1992. Membership for the program is offered free to adults through some insurance policies.

Aside from exercise classes, members also have gotten together for socials. The Columbus group recently was awarded a luncheon for winning a statewide “Charity Challenge” food fundraiser. Fifteen SilverSneakers groups from across Nebraska took part in the three-week challenge from Humana, an insurance company that sponsored the contest. The groups totaled 4,100 pounds of non-perishable food items. The Columbus group collected the most with 1,200 pounds. The food was donated to the Salvation Army.

For more information about the SilverSneakers or programs for seniors, call the YMCA at 564-9477.