Ballwin Classes Welcome Senior Fitness

Several times a week, the Pointe at Ballwin Commons offers a class for its members over age 50, alternating between aerobics and spinning class. Watching the class, you may be surprised at the impressive muscle tone of many participants as well as the energetic pace of the workout. But most likely, the first thing you’ll notice are their smiles.

The members of this class aren’t suffering through their workout—they’re enjoying it. Nor are they exercising to squeeze into a tiny dress for a weekend out. They’re exercising because of the way it makes them feel.

“Having more energy, and feeling better generally” were the benefits cited by Diane Elsther, 65.

Some participants, too, were fed up with health problems ranging from diabetes to high blood pressure.

“My calcium has improved,” said Karen Taylor, 58. “I was on bone density medicine in the past and I didn’t look forward to exercise.”

The class is open to all fitness levels, and some participants march through parts of them while others kick and leap.  But Taylor wants her peers to give exercise a chance, even if it might be intimidating.

“Its worth their while to try it,” Taylor said. “Do what you can.”

Taylor also credits exercising with restoring balance that decreased over the years.

Elstner is a retired teacher, and found that other professionals from the class lived the same harried lifestyle.  Thanks in part to retirement, she said, Elstner and some of her peers actually have found getting in shape somewhat easier.

“I made this a priority, and it has become that,” Elstner said.

Elstner noted that some peers make up excuses to avoid making exercise a habit, but the group in the class are quite the exception.  Julie Vogel, Recreational Special with Ballwin, said it may be the most popular class at The Pointe.

Although recently she’s taken a leave from the class, regular instructor Claudia Masters seems to be the glue that makes the group closer than your ordinary exercise class. Masters, in her late fifties, is visually impaired but leads most classes with an energy that is “inspirational,” Elstner said.

Masters organizes activities outside of the class as well, such as trips to The Fox Theatre downtown and a yearly dinner.

If you aren’t a member of the Pointe, there are plenty of other local programs available for seniors. Silver Sneakers is a “fun, energizing program that helps older adults take greater control of their health by encouraging physical activity and offering social events” nationwide, according to their website.

Silver Sneakers may even be covered under a healthcare plan or Medicare. In the Ballwin-Ellisville area, these are listed as Gold’s Gym at 14051 Manchester, and the West County YMCA at 16464 Burkhardt Place.

In addition to the membership, Silver Sneakers locations have customized classes for older adults, and a program advisor at the gym is available to introduce them to program.  In addition, members have an online support community.

As Taylor said, it all boils down to helping give you the energy to do the activities you want, regardless of age. If your weight or health are preventing you from doing things you should be able to, it may be time to take a cue from these ladies.