‘Programs and classes at the Independence Township Senior Center promote mind and body activity,? says Mary Melega, senior center programmer.
One class beginning in January is Pickle Ball, a hot new activity that is a combination of tennis, badminton, ping pong and racquet ball. The equipment is provided and adults over 50 years of age with all skill levels are welcome. ‘While Pickle Ball is very cardio friendly, players don’t need to be overly athletic,? Melega says. Pickle Ball is a Senior Olympics sport.
The gift of helping adults over 50 years of age stay active is part of Melega’s philosophy when programming at the center. When considering exercise programs, Melega structures classes for the aging body and appeal to adults.
U.S. News and World Report in an article entitled ‘Senior Citizens Need to Work Out, Too? by Deborah Kotz stated, ‘Despite the age-defying benefits of getting fit, 40 percent of women and 30 percent of men over 70 report that they never exercise. Beyond protection against heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers, numerous studies suggest that regular exercise can lower the risk of decline ? the dementia, the frailty that spells the end of independence.? ‘In August of 2007, the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Heart Association issued new exercise guidelines for seniors that call for several workouts a week incorporating resistance training, stretching and balancing as well as aerobics,? says U.S.News.
Another new senior program is Zumba Gold Fitness. Zumba Gold Fitness is a dance based fitness program that is inspired from Latin meringue, salsa and samba dance moves that are easy to follow.
Additional exercise programs include tai chi, yoga, strength and stretch, pilates, line dancing, Drums Alive, Chi Gong, Aero Walking, volleyball, and women’s 50+ softball.
Both beginner and intermediate Tai Chi is offered. Many golfers take tai chi in the winter to stay in shape. DeStress yoga and Drums Alive Golden Beats are offered in the evening, so those adults who work can participate. A gentle yoga is also offered.
Melega says that the instructors are knowledgeable about seniors and build their classes around the needs of an aging body.
‘Line dancing is great for coordination and just a great social activity,? shared Melega.
Two new classes that are paired together are Aero Walking, low impact walking that raises the heart rate and burns fat and lowers cholesterol, with Chi Gong, a Chinese healing practice with movements and healing sounds, as well as self massage to improve life energy.
‘I’m always seeking spaces to hold classes,? says Melega. Senior Center classes are currently held at Clarkston United Methodist Church, St. Daniels Catholic Church, Trinity Lutheran Church, and the First Congregational Church’s new gym as well as the senior center and the Clarkston Schools Community Education building.
Mens? 50+ Volleyball teams include both instructional and league play. A Women’s 50+ softball team participates in a countywide league in the spring.
‘Exercise is good for the brain and alleviates depression,? says Melega. ‘Exercise is a lifestyle choice and a social outlet,? shared an enthusiastic Melega.
Melaga is also working to expand the minds of seniors. Classes and programs teaching Spanish, Bridge, Euchre and PIncochle as well as a Scrabble group are available at the center. The Using You Noggin class is a new class at the center, featuring mind benders, puzzles, crossword puzzles, and sudoku.
Information on winter classes is available in the Independence Township January Newsletter. The newsletter is available online at www.township.independence.mi.us, click on the gold colored Township Departments drop down. Click on the last entry, 50+ adults.
Ten issues of the senior newsletter are available by mail for $10.a year by calling the center.. Mary Melega may be reached at 248 625 8231, Questions on the Independence Township Senior Center are welcomed by Center Director Margaret Bartos, 248 625 8231. The January 2009 column for Senior Tidbits will focus on transportation.