Senior Fitness

I work part-time as a fitness specialist at a retirement community. Before this job, I had no experience working with geriatrics. Although I had been trained in school with senior fitness, I felt like a fish out of water for the first couple months. I just wasn't used to working with such a delicate and fragile population. But I soon learned that seniors are as diverse as any group of people.

We have an 83 year old who runs marathons, a 72 year old who leg presses 400+, a 90 year old who can lift her foot overhead and as you can imagine, there are also plenty of people who have difficulty standing, walking and doing other simple tasks that many of us take for granted. So there is no shortage of individuality with these folks.

What really hit me by surprise was just how gratifying it is to work with these people. I've worked with athletes from all levels, gradeschool through professional ranks; I've worked with stay at home moms, weekend warriors and gym rats alike; but none have given me the satisfaction that this group does! These people REALLY appreciate what I do - check out some of the testimonies I've received...

(This first one is my favorite. Can you think of a better compliment someone could offer you?)

I am very much interested in the mobility class given here at Oak Crest by Dan Cenidoza. My knees hurt, and I am taking this class for the movement it gives me. The class members are all so interesting and we all enjoy our instructor. Dan has helped to lengthen my life, and helped my mobility. I am 93 years old as of 2/18/09.
-Eleanor Meise, (93 years old)

I really do enjoy and appreciate all of the exercise and strengthening that I’ve been doing with you for almost 2 years. My joints have benefited from the mobility and I also enjoy trying to take on the new procedures, hearing and watching your delightful humor and your regular and on time class attendance. Thank you very much!
- Enid Deutschendorf, (74 years old)

For many months now I have been a regular in Dan’s Joint Mobility class here at Oak Crest Village. I just cannot say enough in praising this hour of therapy.
Next month I turn 87 years of age. My back troubles began something back in the fall of 2007 when I was diagnosed with osteo-arthritis, osteo-porosis and stenosis. Various treatments failed to help. The pain grew worse and I became less active and more depressed. I’ve become convinced that my problems are with me for the long haul. My outlook, however is so much better as I’ve seen my range of motion improve through Dan’s Joint Mobility program. It’s made a big difference in my life and I feel comfortable in “hanging in there.” My doctor here at OCV is aware of Dan’s work and actively encourages my continuing with the class.
- Phyllis Valenziano, (87 years old)