30 Sep 2021 Finding affordable fitness training and support groups in the 501

Posted at 6:12 PMh in Health & Beauty by

By Judy Riley

Extension Get Fit may be the answer to getting in shape with a group of friends near you. This opportunity is available through local county extension offices of the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture. Extension Get Fit (EGF) is a research-based, safe, structured, and affordable strength training targeting mid-life to older men and women.

The local county extension offices offer an exercise program called Extension Get Fit. These ladies participate in Faulkner County’s program which is held in Greenbrier: (Front row, from left) Jackie Mahan, Doie Raley, Laura McNinch, Sherril Bowling and Beverly Allbritton. (Back row, from left) Linda Treece, Carol Kircher, Lori Lybarger, Linda Ward (leader), Callie Sutterfield and Chenatta Case.

According to Dr. Bryan Mader, assistant professor and health specialist, 448 individuals participated in classes in the 501 area in 2019 and 371 individuals participated in 2020.

Based on the latest research, the program is designed to improve strength, balance, and flexibility. The results are impressive. Participants report weight loss, increased energy, and fewer falls. Classes typically meet two to three times a week in local communities for about an hour. Each session includes a warm-up, eight to 10 strengthening exercises and a cool-down. The only equipment needed are 5- to 10-pound dumbbells and adjustable ankle weights. And it is affordable; the cost is only $20 per person, which covers a full year’s participation.

Garland County appears to be ahead of the curve in participation. According to Alison Crane, a county extension agent in family and consumer sciences, there are 105 participants with certified volunteer leaders at four sites. Before COVID-19, they had nine locations with 300 participants and leaders. She adds that she has benefited personally from the training. She has heard countless testimonials from others. One individual struggled with a range of motion after shoulder surgery. After being involved in EGF, not only can she move more freely, but she also discovered a group of friends with common interests. Others have shared how they bounced back after knee surgery because they regularly exercised with one of Garland County’s groups.

Mary Beth Groce, family and consumer sciences agent in Faulkner County, said the Greenbrier EGF group reports their certified volunteer trainer, Linda Ward, is phenomenal. She is committed to making the group’s participation fun and professional. Another participant, Callie, adds that she is so grateful for the class, not only for the physical benefits, but for the social interaction. It’s a great way to stay committed when you have friends that count on your being there. Linda says the class has helped her emotionally because she was a widow when she joined and it gave her a group of friends to bond with.

Others add that their bone density tests have improved since they began the exercise regimen. Another indicated she no longer takes medication for bone loss. According to Katie Cullum, FCS agent in White County, one of her participants was on a path to osteoporosis but avoided needing medication. Another said she could now lift her iron skillet. One Hot Springs EGF member sums it up, “I have always exercised, but Get Fit is different. From my head to “my toes, I feel strengthened, stretched and balanced after each class. I am committed to this program to maintain a healthy body as I age.”

So, if getting fit is a goal for fall and winter, joining an Extension Get Fit group could be the solution. More information is available by visiting uada.edu and entering Get Fit in the search tab or by contacting your local county extension office for groups near you.