Gym-going mermaids

In time where seniors prefer to age in place as long as possible, the gym has become a destination to not just build muscle, but also to feel like a part of a community. As we age, the social connections that tie us to our area weaken. Friends and family retire, some move away, and others die. There’s a group of women at the Sheltering Arms Bon Air Fitness Center who build their community, one pool noodle at a time.

“The mermaids are a group of women who come to our fitness center daily to swim, walk the lanes, lift pool dumb bells, and chat. On any given day, there can be 6 to 20 of them in the pool,” said Scotty Minns, Manager, Fitness and Wellness Services.

While the ladies do work out, they keep up with each other socially too. If someone is missing, one of the mermaids will call to check in. They have monthly lunches that linger into happy hour. “I originally came here for my legs and lower back. Now, 17 years later, this has also become my social therapy,” said Brenda Asbury, Head Mermaid.

Studies have noted the role that fitness centers play in maintaining social bonds in seniors. In one study, published in the journal Preventing Chronic Disease, which conducted focus groups of participants in a fitness program for older adults, one woman said that “being able to socialize with people and to laugh helps the body become well and the mind stronger.” The researchers noted the strong sense of cohesion among members, “a dynamic process reflected by the tendency of a group to stick together and remain united in pursuit of its objective.”

Whether you are keeping in shape, recovering from injury or illness, or looking for workout partners, Sheltering Arms’ Bon Air Center fitness center and warm-water therapeutic pool are excellent alternatives to the health club scene. With personalized attention in an intimate setting, you can feel comfortable starting and maintaining an exercise plan at any fitness level.

Located at our Bon Air Center, the Sheltering Arms fitness center has a variety of equipment, including some pieces that are specifically designed for wheelchair accessibility. Equipment includes:

• treadmills
• stationary bikes
• elliptical machines
• hand cycles
• free weights
• weight machines

Our warm-water therapeutic pool is also located at the Bon Air Center and is an ideal environment for helping you improve range of motion while reducing pain and stiffness. The pool features submerged parallel bars, aquatic exercise equipment and is equipped with a ramp to be wheelchair accessible.

To learn more about winter fitness classes and costs, click here or call (804)764-5275 for more information.