After nearly nine years, Maude Burns, 79, is stepping aside as the lead instructor for the Seniorcise classes sponsored by the Iola Recreation Department.
“I’ve decided it’s time for me to cut back — not quit — and slow down a bit,” she said.
Burns plans to participate in the classes but let Charlene Levans and Donna Valentine take over as instructors.
Levans and Valentine have assisted Burns for a number of years.
“The success of the class is due to all the wonderful people who have helped me throughout the years,” Burns said.
IN 2002, Burns enrolled in a walking aerobics class at Allen County Community College. The instructor was Don Farmer, former director of the Rec Department.
After class one day, Burns approached Farmer and suggested creating a light aerobics class for older people.
“Don asked me when I wanted to start the classes. Caught me by surprise, but I wasn’t one to step away from a challenge,” Burns said.
Burns expected maybe 30 people would show for the first class. To her surprise, 55 people came and the number remained between 45 and 55 throughout the first session, which was held during the winter months into April.
During the first couple of years, Burns took a hiatus from teaching when fishing season opened.
THE NEW instructors are fervent believers in group exercise.
It is important to keep moving, especially as you age, Levans said.
“I know if I would try to exercise at home, I probably wouldn’t. It is too easy to find something else to do,” Levans said.
Valentine said if it weren’t for the exercise classes she would probably be at home on the couch. Her doctor advised her to find an exercise class following a heart attack.
“I enjoy coming to the classes. I have made a lot of good friends and my health has improved,” Valentine said.
“I think the best exercise is a big smile. A smile makes everyone feel better and makes exercising more fun,” Burns added.
The exercise classes are free and are open to all age groups, not just seniors.
Classes feature low impact aerobics. There is no getting up and down off the floor. All exercises may be done while sitting in a chair if mobility is limited. Participants are advised to check with their physicians before starting any exercise program.
Seniorcise classes are at 9 a.m. each Monday, Wednesday and Friday in the Recreation Community Building in Riverside Park.
