Stepping it up at Kiwanis Housing
Seniors enthusiastic about fitness program
By Gerry Gray
Judging by the enthusiasm and competiveness of some tenants at Kiwanis Housing, one would assume they were vying for a spot in the Boston Marathon.
Jenni Dyer, Coordinator of Leisure and Lifestyles, started a walking program for interested residents and competition is keeping them on their toes.
So far she has 14 men and women strapping on their pedometers. "The way this program is being accepted I expect many more will get into the swing of it," Jenni said.
Leading the pack is 94-year-old Fides Prissinotti who clocks 60 kilometres a week.
What makes this program so unique is every week the individual distances are tallied up and points are awarded. When these points add to 25, prizes are awarded every four weeks. The main source of points is walking around the circle, or "the track", surrounding the floral display in front of the patio. "But points are also awarded for walking anywhere if they have their pedometers attached," Jenni pointed out. The once around the track is held two times per week. Then the "point" meeting is held with all the participants present. "This gives everyone a sense of belonging even if they have a low point score for one reason or another," explained the coordinator.
"Health has improved, energy is restored and it's a good way to keep people moving. Any type of competition is good for people who are living in areas where all basic essentials are mere steps away. This program ensures exercise and fresh air for our tenants."
Programs such as this are started in many places like Kiwanis but usually die on the vine when interest wanes by either the participants or recreation directors. The difference here is the enthusiasm and attention the coordinator brings to the program. All participants say it's a fun thing and all seem to be in it for the long term. Considering points are scored no matter were one walks so long as they have their pedometer strapped on, a lot more walking is done around the premises.
