Monday, February 5, 2018
By Brian Foley, Web Content Specialist
This spring, we're excited to open a new community center for active older adults (50+) at Daniel Webster Secondary School. We’re launching the center with seven fun and entertaining daytime classes, including Pickleball, Zumba, Tai Chi, Drumming Fitness, Creative Crafts, and other fitness programs (click the links or see below for more information). Classes begin in early April.
Webster is a perfect fit as Milwaukee Recreation expands its programming for active older adults.
“Webster offers great amenities, including extensive gym space, multipurpose rooms, and a lot of options for enrichment programming,” Active Older Adults supervisor Willie Mitchell said.
Mitchell’s goal at Webster is to put more resources behind the fitness side of programming for active older adults, such as Pickleball. The sport is played on a badminton court with a lower net, a perforated plastic ball, and a wood or composite paddle. It is an easy sport for beginners to pick up and play, but it can also provide quick, fast-paced, competitive games for our more avid players.
These fitness-oriented classes are crucial for keeping both the mind and body young throughout the year. Webster’s presence also creates another hub for social interaction within north Milwaukee that will continue to grow over time. This is an excellent opportunity for Milwaukee Recreation and the surrounding neighborhoods to establish something special for active older adults within the community.
“People should take advantage of these affordable classes in order to stay active and social,” Mitchell said. “The more we can get involved in programs at Webster, the easier it will be to make this location a true community center where people want to spend their time.”
And these seven classes are just the start of our fitness push on the north side. We are excited to gather feedback from the community about future programming that participants would like to see offered at Webster.
Programming occurs during the school day at Webster, but class participants and students will not cross paths. Active Older Adults classes will take place in their own section of the building and participants will use their own entrance (door no. 6) right off the east parking lot. We look forward to seeing you this spring!
Call (414) 647-6065 for more information.
April 10-May 29
12:30-2 p.m.
Arts and crafts are a wonderful way to keep both your mind and body young. Come and and express your creative side as we take on a new project each week!
April 10-May 29
11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
A fitness phenomenon gaining popularity at gyms and senior centers across the country lets participants exercise to the beat of their own drums - literally. This 'Drumming For Fitness' class combines traditional aerobic movements with the powerful beat and rhythm of drums. Participants will use their hands, drumsticks, fitness balls and a bucket to bring the fun back to fitness!
April 10-June 12
10-11 a.m.
Increase strength, balance, and flexibility as you age with Fit Wise! The Fit Wise Program is a moderate-intensity, progressive exercise program. During this program participants will meet twice a week for chair-based, strength building exercises and nutrition tips. Staying physically fit during older adulthood can help you be stronger, feel better, and can help maintain your independence.
April 12-May 31
10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in the country! Pickleball is an enjoyable and fun game that is played on a badminton court with a lower net. Come join us for open play or instruction from our avid pickleball players.
April 12-May 3 or May 10-31
10:30-11:30 a.m.
'You CAN Do This Fitness Class' is about dynamic muscle and toning exercises that include stretching, cardio, strength training and abdominal work. This fit camp is designed to teach techniques that would improve and maintain muscle tone, functional strength and overall cardiovascular health. A variety of apparatus will be introduced such as light weights, Resist-a-Balls, and more!
April 12-May 3 or May 10-31
12:30-1:30 p.m.
T'ai Chi & Qigong are human movement systems created by the Chinese. Learn how to use movement to relax and balance your energy system. Wear comfortable clothing and flat soled shoes or stocking feet. Seniors and those with health limitations are encouraged to participate, as the movements can be adjusted to fit any fitness level.
April 10-May 1 or May 8-29
10:15-11:15 a.m.
Zumba Gold takes the Zumba formula and modifies the moves and pacing to suit the needs of the active older participant, as well as those just starting their journey to a fit and healthy lifestyle. Join other older adults that want camaraderie, excitement and fitness as a regular part of their weekly schedule. It is a dance-fitness class that feels friendly, and most of all, fun.