You Ask, We Answer:

Do you offer fitness programs that pertain to older adults or those with arthritis and pain management?

Often we get asked these questions. The answer is, we offer several different programs that focus on these issues.

Strength training is key to help ward off muscle loss, keep bones strong, promote mobility and function, prevent falls and even help combat depression and mental health issues! Often people think that exercising only means walking, biking, swimming or other cardiovascular exercises. Although a strong cardio exercise program helps strengthen our heart and lungs, we are missing out if we do not incorporate weight lifting into our routine.

Sometimes weight lifting areas can be very intimidating; you may not have the slightest idea how to use the machines. You may have no idea how much weight to start lifting. You may not have any clue how or where to get started in developing your own routine. Don’t sweat it! We can help you!

We offer Weight Lifting for Seniors and Weight Lifting for Women classes that help with skills needed to plan your own weight room workouts. Both are 6-week programs, taught by Certified Personal Trainer Professionals that provide guidance in the use of machines and dumbbells without the expense or commitment of a private personal trainer.

Fit & Strong! Arthritis Management and Prevention Program is a physical activity self-management program for older adults or persons with lower extremity osteoarthritis (OA). It combines flexibility, strength training and aerobic walking with health education for sustained behavior change. Expect to gain a clear understanding of what osteoarthritis is and how physical activity that is tailored to the needs of persons with arthritis can help them manage arthritis symptoms. Learn to perform safe stretching, balance, aerobic and strengthening exercises. Groups meet weekly for 6 weeks. 45-minute exercise class and 30-minute education session to follow.

All of these programs are offered to both Rec Center members and non-members and are very reasonably priced. All you have to do is pre-register either online at newulmmn.gov, in person at the Rec Center or simply calling the Rec Center at 507-359-8347 and press option 4.

We offer fitness classes 6 days per week that range from cycling, aquatic, senior, step, strength and everything in between. If you prefer to do your own workouts, we have a variety of equipment to suit people’s needs. We offer free equipment orientation to all our members, including refreshers, if needed.

Whatever your preference, we have what you are looking for, so bust out of those barriers and get tools needed to further enhance your fitness goals. Do it for YOU!

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Editor’s Note: The City of New Ulm presents a weekly column highlighting activities in different departments in the city government. Once a month the city will answer questions from readers. Questions on New Ulm city issues can be sent to comments@ci.new-ulm.mn.us.