Several women of varying ages are taking part in the Strong Bones class offered by the University of Wisconsin-Extension and led by Nancy Schultz, the Extension family living educator for Shawano County.
The class has been so well received that two more classes will start in April, along with a Healthy Hearts class, which aims to prevent cardiovascular disease and reduce the risk of heart disease.
“We need to educate women about heart disease,” Schultz said. “It is the number one killer of men and women.”
Half of the Healthy Hearts class will be aerobic exercises that will gradually increase in duration and intensity. The other half will focus on eating and cooking for heart health, with an emphasis on fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy, fish, whole grains, and leaner meats and poultry.
The women in the Strong Bones class range in age from 24 to 88. Schultz said she noticed the greatest change in the women in their 80s, who became more vibrant and flexible and were able to use heavier weights as the class progressed. The women have also been able to do a standing pose for longer times.
“Since Strong Bones, I have noticed an immense difference,” Schultz said. “I have been so amazed with these ladies. For me it’s been amazing to see. It’s going so well.”
When Strong Bones ends on April 2, two more 10-week classes will start for men and women. They begin with a health assessment from 8:30-9:30 a.m. March 31. Class fees are $25 or a re-enrollment fee of $10.
The first session will be held from 8:30-9:30 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays from April 7 through June 11 at Zion Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall.
The second class will be held from 7:30-8:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays from April 8 through June 12.
The 12-week program of Healthy Hearts begins with a personal assessment from 1:30-2:30 p.m. April 1. The classes will be held from 1:30-2:30 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays from April 7 through June 25 at Zion Lutheran. Class fee is $25 per person.
Anyone with health issues or over the age of 69 needs to get clearance from their doctors to participate in the classes. Equipment is provided.
The Strong Woman Program was developed by Miriam Nelson, an associate professor at Tufts University. Participants on average lost 4.5 pounds and two inches in their waist.
“My one goal is to help Shawano County become a healthier community,” Schultz said.
For more information, call the UW-Extension office at 715-526-6136.
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