- April 29, 2024
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A new YMCA program has helped improve the flexibility, strength and balance in Ormond Beach residents who suffer from arthritis.
BY EMILY BLACKWOOD | STAFF WRITER
For those Ormond Beachers who find it hard to get up off of chairs or button their shirts due to chronic pain from arthritis, the YMCA has created a new workout program.
The Enhance Fitness program is designed to assist arthritis sufferers, as well as people with balance issues, during workouts involving light cardio, arm and ankle weights and balance exercises. The Volusia Flagler Family YMCAs introduced the program after earning a grant from the national YMCA organization.
Certified Enhance Fitness instructor Colleen Ussia said that classes begin with an assessment to see where participant are in terms of health, and where they would like to be. After 16 weeks, participants are reassessed and given a report that tracks their improved.
"They have more strength, more flexibility and more confidence," Ussia said. "They just feel better."
According to a YMCA press release, research shows that physical activity performed on a regular basis will reduce pain, improve function, elevate mood and delay onset of disabilities. This is true even for low-intensity workouts.
Long-time YMCA member Jim Baker started Enhance Fitness a year ago after he had knee-replacement surgery. After 14 weeks, he said his balance has improved so much that he stopped using his cane.
"I'm not moving as fast as I used to," Baker said. "But I'm 88 years old I'll take what I can get and run with it."
The basics
During hour-long classes, participants will focus on improving their strength, flexibility and balance through a consistent workout routine. The routine's exercises are listed as follows:
- 5-8 minutes of warmup
- 20 minutes of cardiovascular endurance
- 3-5 minutes of cool-down
- 20 minutes of strength training
- 8-10 minutes of stretching
Balance is incorporated during different segments of the class.
The class is offered Monday, Wednesday and Friday at the Ormond Beach YMCA, with times varying. The program is free to members and is $25 per month for non-members. Participants are allowed to try the class once before signing up.
Call 673-9622n.
