Gathering for fitness created lasting bonds
C
ovid19 impacted fitness routines for many people early this spring and summer. One group, wanting to keep their routines going, got creative. They not only found a way to preserve their routines, but they also ended up with a network of lasting friendships that changed their lives.
Group member Mary agrees. “The whole class knows what’s going on with each other. We all support each other and it has helped provide me with a new community.” Instructors combine unique workout strategies and in-depth knowledge about human physiology. For many class members, mobility is limited and full-intensity workouts are difficult, so instructors encourage chair workouts to build strength, flexibility and balance.
Isabel and Mary point to instructors The group came from attendees of Brynne and Kate for having encouraged Enhance®Fitness classes at the Eugene Family YMCA. The class, held three times a week, is a CDC-endorsed program proven to increase cardiovascular health, muscle strength, bone density, mental sharpness, flexibility and balance for those dealing with arthritis, fibromyalgia and other chronic and acute conditions.
deeper and more meaningful experiences from the class because of their welcoming presence. It’s worked! Even a pandemic couldn’t keep these spirited folks from maintaining their connections. The group continues to meet, walk together and enjoy each other’s company — and they don’t plan to stop. To learn more about the group or get involved, contact Coordinator Brynne Blevins Andrus at enhance@ eugeneymca.org or 541-686-9622 x223.
After meeting over Zoom, Isabel and other class participants decided to walk regularly around the South Eugene High School track — maintaining physical distance but connecting in person. Isabel says Enhance®Fitness is her “solar social charge. We’ve come to know each other better through walking, and I now consider them my friends.”
NORTHWEST 50 PLUS METRO | NOVEMBER 2020 19