Winter Exercise

By Mary Jo Tarallo

We’ve all probably sung or hummed along to the holiday tune “Let it Snow” that starts off with these lyrics: “The weather outside is frightful but the fire is so delightful….” It occurred to me that this might not be the best message to send to people who have probably been overeating and overindulging during the holidays and need to get up and move instead of sitting in front of a fire, no matter how delightful it sounds. Options for exercise in the winter are plentiful even if you don’t consider yourself an athletic person. For starters, local senior centers offer a plethora of choices including ballroom dancing, La Blast, Zumba, strength and balance classes, fitness rooms, and even a program called Sit and Get Fit for those who might really have mobility issues. While not as extensive as 24 Fitness or Midway Fitness, the Cape Henlopen Senior Center’s (CHSC) has a fitness room that has enough upper and lower body machines to provide a good work out plus a wide range of activity programs to serve a variety of needs and tastes. The same room houses two pool tables, so it is fun to watch pool enthusiasts while trekking on the treadmill. Learning to play pool could even be a good “cool down” activity after a workout.

The CHSC and Lewes Activity Senior Center (LASC) both offer LaBlast, Line Dancing, Yoga, and a few other options. Some programs are similar at both locations, while others vary. For example, the CHSC has ballroom dancing while the LASC does not. However, LASC has a Balance and Strength program that is not offered at the CHSC.

Aside from the nominal annual membership fee ($30 at CHSC and $35 at LASC) classes cost between $5-7 per session. Some programs are free with membership. Joining a regular fitness facility is also an option. Membership at Midway Fitness is free for those who have the AARP Medicare Advantage. Most health insurance programs have a fitness facility tie-in, but distant locations can be an issue.

The Easy Striders group is also an ideal option for those who want to get some exercise and socialize with others in the community. Headed by activity enthusiast Peter Gisler, the group meets every other Sunday afternoon throughout the fall, winter, and spring at around 1 pm to walk through various state parks in the area. Gisler often packs in a social gathering after each “hike” at a “local watering hole” like the Wheelhouse. More like walking tours than hikes, most outings are in the Rehoboth/Lewes general area. Many members also participate in the low-key weekly hikes of the Senior Olympics programs.

And lest we forget the fastest growing sport in the U.S. today, the Dave Marshall Tennis and Fitness club offers various levels of Pickleball classes and clinics all year long. The facility is located off Plantations Road in Lewes.

Since it’s true that any form of exercise is better than none at all, let’s get out there (especially in these colder months where all we want to do is sit by that inviting fire). Even if it’s just the “old fashioned” option of bundling up and walking around the block, let’s grab a buddy (or not) and get moving! Need a great local exercise class? Check out this list of classes at local libraries and activity centers.