By Chris Bavender
Fishers Parks and Recreation has teamed up with the fitness program Ageless Grace to offer anti-aging classes at Roy Holland Park this winter. Classes are geared for people 55 and older.
The Ageless Grace program, created by Denise Medved, consists of 21 simple exercise tools designed for all ages and abilities. It’s based on everyday movements and incorporates music and mindfulness, according to instructor Kathy Woods.
“Ageless Grace started out for baby boomers, and as they are retiring they want to keep going, and they want to keep their vitality and their health. But everyone can benefit from it, though, no matter their age,” Woods said. “What I’ve found is so many times people come to my class and see it’s sitting in a chair, and they think that may not be good for them because they aren’t in a wheelchair or using a walker, but if someone is overweight or hasn’t exercised in a while, it’s a great place to start.”
Woods would know. Five years ago she was in a wheelchair after being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. One day after having to use an electric scooter at the store, she came home and decided to get serious about her health. In 2012, she attended an Ageless Grace session and eventually became a certified educator for the program.
During an Ageless Grace class, participants work on core strength and address primary factors that cause physical gain and/or cognitive decline.
“It’s different than anything out there, so unique. The things that we do have fun names like ‘Spaghetti spine,’ so as soon as I say the name they know we’ll be working on the spine and making it very mobile,” Woods said. “Imagination is also key because we might play imaginary instruments or catch. People get a kick out of it and are laughing and having a great time. It uplifts their spirit and gets them to breathe, and they don’t even know they are exercising half the time.”
The class is 10 to 11 a.m. on Wednesdays, Jan. 4 to Feb. 8, and Feb. 15 to March 29. The cost is $36 per session or $8 for an individual class. For more or to register, email Woods at [email protected] or call 317-288-4079.
