While some older adults may feel isolated amid the current COVID-19 pandemic due to concerns for their health, Riverside Wellness and Fitness Centers are working to encourage them to remain healthy by continuing to offer specialized exercise programs for those who feel comfortable returning to exercise.
“Wellness and activity is important to the individuals in our communities,” said Rance Bryant, Riverside Health System Director of Wellness and Fitness Centers. “The benefits of staying active not only improve one’s physical well-being but mentally and cognitively as well. From improving balance and muscular strength to providing brain teaser classes, we are here to help our community members stay independent as they age.”
Building Balance, a prevention program geared toward adults who want to be proactive in preventing falls, is open to anyone. Building Balance classes are held on Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. and Wednesdays at 1 p.m. at Riverside Wellness and Fitness Center-Middle Peninsula, and on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 1 p.m. at the Peninsula location in Newport News.
Studies have shown that inactivity can lead to balance problems, and lower body muscles can begin to deteriorate without proper training. Building Balance focuses on strengthening the muscles of the lower body in order to prevent falls. While fall prevention is a hallmark benefit of the class, gaining self-confidence is another side effect.
Maintaining Movement, a high-intensity program that incorporates circuit style moves, is for anyone living with a neurological condition. Maintaining Movement is also offered at 11:30 a.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays on the Peninsula only.
The Maintaining Movement classes previously offered were specific to those with Parkinson’s disease, but have since been opened to all neurological patients. Developed with Riverside physicians and therapists, Maintaining Movement is high-intensity interval training that can be tailored to each participant’s abilities. Classes will include exercises to increase hand-to-eye coordination, challenge balance and improve stability. Functional exercises that mimic activities of daily living and raise the heart rate are also incorporated, and can be modified for participants to perform standing or seated. Cognitive “brain exercises” meant to stimulate the mind/body connection will be part of both classes.
Each class will be offered in 10-week sessions for a cost of $120 per person. If you are a Riverside Wellness and Fitness Center member at the Newport News or Gloucester locations, the classes are included in your membership fee. If someone is a caregiver for another with dementia or if the interested participant suffers from dementia, classes are free, made possible by grant funding.
In addition, R.I.S.E. or Riverside’s Introduction to Supervised Exercise program, is a program designed for those who are just getting started with exercise, whether it be their first time in the gym or after recovery from an injury or illness. R.I.S.E. is an eight-week supervised exercise program which includes a pre- and post-fitness assessment, and individualized exercise prescription. Participants will work with an exercise specialist over the course of 16 sessions. Participation requires a physician referral and is $120 for an eight-week session if referred by a Riverside practice. Patients who are referred outside of the Riverside network can participate for $150 for an eight-week session.
Those who are already comfortable with exercise can also enjoy Pickleball and group exercise classes in each facility and in the large indoor, heated swimming pool. For those looking to walk indoors, a large indoor track is also available, along with weight machines and free weights.
Sterilization and cleaning precautions are in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Masks are not required during exercise but are encouraged. Participants will receive their own set of sanitized equipment to use and be separated by at least 10 feet. Class sizes are limited.
If you are new to exercise, it is advised that you discuss beginning a new exercise routine with your doctor. For more information on these classes, fitness center membership or to sign up call Riverside Wellness and Fitness Centers at 804-693-8888 to reach the Gloucester location or 757-875-7525 to reach the Peninsula location.
