Walbridge: Stay-in-shape program free to seniors

2/22/2006

Walbridge senior citizens who want to stay in shape now have a free opportunity to do so.

Walbridge Village Council is giving the East Toledo YMCA $1,200 for senior citizens 55 and older to participate in the Active Older Adult Program at the YMCA, 2960 Pickle Rd.

The AOA program is low-impact exercises that can be done on land or in water. They have all the major components of a fitness class, including a warm-up, cardiovascular movements, stretching, toning, and cool-down for the elderly or those with special needs, such as arthritis pain or weak knees, said Yvonne Patton, program director for YMCA's senior programming.

"Even people with stability issues do really well in the water," she said. "There are some people who come in with canes and walkers, and you wouldn't even know it when they're in the water."

The classes are offered in the morning or afternoon Monday through Friday.

To participate in the free program, senior citizens need to bring proof that they live within the village limits to the Walbridge Administration Building, 111 North Main St., to receive a membership card.

Mayor Dan Wilczynski said village officials plan to re-evaluate the program after a year.

The East Toledo YMCA has had a similar agreement with senior citizens' centers in Oregon and Northwood for at least a decade.

Ms. Patton said more than 200 senior citizens from those cities participate in the exercise programs annually.