Extension Agent Builds Strength and Community Through Fitness Class

Barb Wise, Stay Strong, Stay Healthy participant, learned she loves bicep curls.

"I know Extension is a valuable resource, so when this strength class came open, [I thought] I need this," Barb Wise, Stay Strong, Stay Healthy participant. Stay Strong, Stay Healthy is an eight-week exercise program for older adults. Barb signed up for the strength training class lead by Ashley Svaty, K-State Research and Extension Agent, that meets at the Cawker City Community Fitness Center.

Barb recommends the class designed for people fifty years and older. "It's a great program. It's so much different than the normal exercise that people do. It's really helping us develop strength, things that we need to have, even though I'm not that old, I just worry about balance and stuff." The hourlong class meets twice a week. Participants learn the exercises from Svaty, a certified Stay Strong, Stay Healthy instructor, and are encouraged to continue the exercises at home or with a community group.

 

The results from taking Svaty's class are noticeable and measurable according to Barb, "The thing I like is I started out with one and a half pounds [ankle weights] but I'm up to three and a half pounds and on the bicep curls I'm up to eight pounds, so I can definitely tell I have increased the strength."

Ashley Svaty talks about the benefits of strength training with Barb.

"The goal of the program is getting stronger together and having fun," Ashley Svaty said. Based on participant testimonials, the class met her goals for participants to gain strength within a sense of community.

"I really can't say enough about the social [part of the program]. It's my highlight for the day. A couple of us in the group are hoping to continue with this and invite some other community members to join us, too."

Ashley Svaty, Nutrition, Food Safety and Health Agent, is happy to talk with you about your health and fitness. Contact her at your local Post Rock Extension District Office if you would like the Stay Strong, Stay Healthy program brought to your community. Learn more about Post Rock Extension District at www.postrock.ksu.edu.

 

Ashley leads the class at the Cawker City Community Center.

Barb has increased her weights over the course of the class. 

Post Rock Postcards is a feature by Shannon Rogers, Communications Manager, Post Rock Extension District. Contact Shannon at shrogers@ksu.edu to share your Extension story.