Site last updated: Friday, March 29, 2024

Log In

Reset Password
MENU
Butler County's great daily newspaper

Senior strength trainining is the goal

Betty Honda of Slippery Rock uses a band to stretch during a Geri-Fit session in the Slippery Rock Community Library.

SLIPPERY ROCK — Diane Hyatt spent two months inactive because of upper respiratory difficulties.

“I could not get up out of my chair without assisting myself, and knew I was really down,” said Hyatt, a Harrisville resident, 78. “(Geri-Fit) has been a great help. They're doable exercises.”

Hyatt is a community member who participates in Geri-Fit, a 12-week strength-training class aimed at people 65 and older, running from 11 a.m. to noon Mondays and Thursdays at the Slippery Rock Community Library, 465 N. Main St.

Grey and blue resistance bands stretched and black and pink weights lifted as the attendees moved through the video workout, which includes triceps extensions, one-arm overhead presses, calf raises and alternating curls.

The library participated in a national study to test if libraries could offer fitness classes without an instructor, said Karen Pierce, library director. After it's success, the library was able to obtain a license and offer Geri-Fit for free.

“It's a terrific opportunity for folks to get out and have some community time, as well as fitness and strength training,” Pierce said. “The fact it's geared toward an older population allows that population to participate whereas they might not participate in a program focused on younger people.”

This is an excerpt from a story in Tuesday's Butler Eagle.

More in Digital Media Exclusive

Subscribe to our Daily Newsletter

* indicates required
TODAY'S PHOTOS