Opinion: Classes Provide Engaging Exercise Option

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Copyright 2017 San Angelo Standard-Times
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San Angelo Standard-Times (Texas)

 

SAN ANGELO — A fun and active exercise class can make working out something other than a "must-do" item of the day.

It can be hard to stay active with so many everyday events. I know for myself, with only one child, I stay busy with her after-school extracurricular activities and school events. So being able to get that daily workout in is not always a priority - even though it should be.

As I've mentioned before, the motivation I see from the senior participants at the City of San Angelo's senior centers is one of the most rewarding parts of my job. Many attend at least three of our exercise classes each week. Many also exercise in the workout room at Santa Fe Crossing, 702 S. Chadbourne St.

One of the classes that has increased in participation is our Zumba evening class. This hour-long class is offered on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Our class is open to the public. You'll pay a mere $4 fee per class at the door and enjoy an intense workout.

Stephanie Barnes is the certified Zumba instructor. She has been teaching Zumba at the center for more than five years.

Just before the new year, the Zumba class seemed to be on the decline; we weren't sure if we would still offer it come 2017. But with some help from our Public Information Office, which has posted the class info on the City's Facebook and Twitter pages, and the instructor promoting her class as well, it quickly grew. We have had up to 40 people in a class filling up our largest room, the Station 618 activity room, which measures 3,000 square feet.

The Zumba class is full of energy. The music Stephanie uses a mix of pop, hip-hop and Latin genres of music. The exercise is non-stop, with only small breaks when transitioning to the next song. Sometimes, small hand weights - usually less than 5 pounds - are incorporated. Don't be intimidated by the fast pace of our Zumba classes. Beginners are always welcome to try it out. Stephanie also offers giveaways at the end of class from time to time, handing out free passes for your next Zumba class. If Zumba is not the sort of class you may be looking for, we also offer have a workout room available on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. to the public for a $3 fee. With exercise machines available, including treadmills and ellipticals, you can do your own independent workout.

I know sometimes after I'm done with my workday, I'll stay and get at least a 45-minute workout in, even though I am a member at a local gym. The calm and relaxing atmosphere of the workout room at Station 618 makes that workout a lot easier.

We always invite adults 55 and older to take part in the Senior Center fitness program. But if you haven't reached that 55-year milestone, come and try the Zumba class or workout room on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. It's one way to get your exercise in for the day.

Sandra Aguilar is the recreation supervisor for the City of San Angelo's Senior Services program. Contact her at 325-481-2798 or [email protected]

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May 22, 2017
 
 
 

 

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