Physical activity is key to a healthy lifestyle for people of all ages and the health benefits are countless, including a healthier mental state. With the effects of aging and COVID-19, it is imperative that we continue to keep both our minds and body moving! Physical activity is a great way to do both. Joining an exercise class also helps to keep you accountable, create comradery, and build confidence in yourself as you learn new exercises! For older adults, it is recommended to get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity throughout the week.

The Auburn Hills Senior Services Department is proud to partner with SMART to offer a fitness program free of charge to 25 participants in two sessions through the end of the year. As you can imagine, these sessions filled up quickly as the word spread. These classes are held both in person and via zoom and help to keep the participants active and healthy for 1 hour, 3 times a week, surpassing the threshold for the recommended activity level for the week!

All of the classes offered through the Auburn Hills Senior Services Department allow for varying skill level. The class being sponsored, Exercise with Amanda, is a general exercise class that incorporates a full body workout, strength training, cardio fitness, balance, and flexibility. Through this sponsorship, we were able to encourage seniors to get SMART about fitness!

SMART has been a great sponsor, allowing seniors to get active and get involved. We also work with SMART to provide transportation to the residents of Auburn Hills through our Senior Transportation, and SMART’s family of services; fixed bus routes and Connector services. Our seniors have been able to remain independent, going to the grocery store, medical appointments, and other essential services.

The City of Auburn Hills and SMART have implemented important safety measures to keep riders safe, including, wearing masks, limiting ridership, electrostatic spray treatment to sanitize buses, and employee and rider health screenings.

All fitness classes offered through the Auburn Hills Senior Services Department are socially distanced and are held in accordance with any current guidelines and orders. Participants check in and wear a mask during exercise while in the building.

Stop by the Auburn Hills Community Center to see how you can get active and get SMART about your health and fitness today!

Natalie Stasyk, Senior Services Program Coordinator