Low Impact Classes at Quadra Community Center

Those who think they have no time for exercise will soon have to make time for illness.

                                                                                                               Lord of Stanley

Many people suffer with chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease which diminish physical fitness as well as eroding self esteem and confidence.

Low impact aerobic exercise typically is consistent, rhythmic, repetitive movement that involves large muscle groups. One foot is in contact with the floor at all times relieving the body of the impact strain and tissue damage without diminishing the weight bearing aspects.

This makes it suitable for those recovering from previous injuries, knee and joint concerns, pregnant women, obese, elderly, or those who have not exercised for sometime. The class encourages social aspects, as well as keeping the muscles and cardiovascular system toned, supple and strong for a life you can enjoy.

Classes start out with about 8-10 minutes of walking and breathing, warming up the large muscles groups; then increasing intensity for another 20-30 minutes. The goal of cardio is to double your resting heart rate to increase cardiovascular health. Intensity and duration will increase with time.  Inability to use full sentences with someone next to you is the easiest way to know if you are over doing it.  The class is completed with general strength and endurance increasing exercises, followed by a stretch, flexibility and relaxation ending.

The classes focus on range of motion, flexibility, developing strength and endurance, increased cardio and respiratory health, cultivating emotional health and social companionships. Of course, there will be martial arts, interval training and belly dance for increased cardio, additional  muscular strength, and spinal flexibility. This class is geared to anyone who is starting out, has begun a recovery program  from health challenges, or needs a different focus for their current training program. During July and August the class can usually be found hiking along any number of Quadra Trails, or off on a field trip seeking new digs.

Other low impact sports are walking, X-country skiing, snow shoeing, and dancing including Belly Dancing are just a few that you can enjoy. Exercise along with a healthy diet, and positive social life will improve the quality of the life you already enjoy.

Fitness is a gift anyone can improve and start to enjoy. The trick to beginning is always start with and strengthen what you can do then begin building from there. Attitude is the most important resource you have. I've been blessed with many mentors throughout my life who taught me that giving up is only useful when creating new possibilities. As my beloved husband always says:

Don't Quit 5 minutes before the miracle happens.

Low Impact classes will continue Mondays and Fridays until July 9, 2010.

Fit Tip for Summer
Drink Water ~ 75% of people are chronically dehydrated ~ for many the thirst drive is so weak it is mistaken for hunger; therefore for many, 1 glass of water will shutdown evening hunger pangs ~ lack of water is the #1 reason for daytime fatigue ~ 1% dehydration will slow fitness performance 10% & metabolism 3% ~ 2%  drop will trigger short term memory loss, fuzzy thinking, trouble with basic math, difficulty with focusing. Drink Water  

First Aid Classes
Look to the Hungry Eye for the next Standard First Aid Recert with CPR-C scheduled for late June or early July.  For further information please call me at 250-285-3505 or check my blog for up coming classes.

Enjoy the coming of Summer!! Yes it is coming!