The Importance of Fitness for Everyone
Fitness plays a crucial role in our lives, transcending age, background, or financial status. While many people set fitness goals at the beginning of the year, the truth is that staying active is a lifelong pursuit. One community that embodies this ethos is the Golden Gear fitness class, which has been a cornerstone of Emporia Fitness for over 15 years.
Golden Gear: A Community for Older Adults
Golden Gear is a 30-minute coached fitness class tailored primarily for older adults, particularly those who are retired. Initially, attendance was modest, with around 5-15 participants. However, as word spread, the class grew in size and character, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.
Cheryl Jamison, a dedicated participant for almost three years, attests to this unique blend of fitness and social interaction. “It’s very much social as well as exercise,” she remarks. “I tend to be part of the livelier group, but it’s such a fantastic crowd.” Jamison joined Golden Gear to focus on dumbbell and balance exercises after retiring. What she discovered was not just physical benefits, but meaningful connections with other attendees.
Adapting Workouts for All Needs
One of the standout features of Golden Gear is its emphasis on adaptability. Cheryl appreciates how instructors modify exercises to accommodate various physical challenges, such as knee issues. “The instructors guide us on alternatives for our unique situations, which is really helpful as we age,” she says.
Engaging Instruction from Experienced Coaches
Dave Johnson, one of the main instructors and a former football player, has significantly contributed to the class’s popularity. Under his guidance, attendance has soared, with some sessions welcoming up to 40 participants. Johnson believes in creating a fun environment that keeps everyone engaged. “I strive to make the classes enjoyable through humor and light conversation,” he explains, often chatting about sports or the weather to maintain a friendly atmosphere.
Making Fitness Enjoyable
The lively ambiance of Golden Gear is enhanced by nostalgic music and a casual feel, making it inviting for older adults to stay active. Johnson designs a comprehensive workout that includes mobility and strength exercises, encouraging participants to attend three times a week for maximum benefit. He believes that consistent engagement can boost one’s quality of life.
Building Connections Beyond the Gym
Many attendees rely on Golden Gear as their primary source of physical activity. Classes are scheduled three times a week: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. To enhance the fun, Johnson and fellow instructor Carrie Poersch also introduce square dancing as part of their fitness offerings.
The camaraderie forged within the class extends beyond the gym. Every first Monday of the month, participants gather for a luncheon, further solidifying friendships. Sherry Fisher, another class participant, reflects on this aspect, saying, “It’s a wonderful opportunity for friendship. After retiring from teaching, I found it challenging to meet new people, but this class has changed that.”
A Transformative Experience
What began as a straightforward fitness initiative for seniors has evolved into a thriving community. Laughter, friendship, and a shared commitment to health and wellness are at the heart of Golden Gear. This program serves as a reminder that fitness is not just about physical activity; it’s also about building life-enhancing connections.
Conclusion
Incorporating fitness into your life can be enjoyable and rewarding, especially when shared with others. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting your fitness journey, finding a supportive community can make all the difference. Consider joining a group or class that resonates with your interests and lifestyle, and remember: staying active is a journey worth taking.
