New fitness class helps older adults stay active

GRUNDY CENTER – A new low-impact group fitness class offered by Endurance Physical Therapy in Grundy Center is helping older adults keep life in motion. 

The new Functional Fitness class is designed to help adults of all ages make real-life activities easier by increasing cardiovascular fitness, strength, core and balance.

Class instructor Landry Luhring said the 45-minute class has provided an opportunity for participants to get active in a safe and encouraging environment.

“We focus on exercises to simulate movements people use in everyday life,” said Luhring, a Grundy Center alum who joined the Endurance Physical Therapy team in January after earning her B.S. in Exercise Science from Central College in December 2021. 

"This is the type of class I have been hoping we would have in Grundy Center for a long time,” said Mary Doak, 84, of Grundy Center. “It is something that we senior citizens can handle. The time is right and Landry is a great instructor—prepared and accommodating to all levels of senior fitness.”

Doak has been a regular class member and said she has been amazed at her improvement in a few short weeks.  “I actually found out I can bend my knees without losing my balance,” she said. “At 84 years young, I think I am the oldest in the class. Words of advice: You are never too old. If you think you can, you can!" 

Sandy Simms of Grundy Center has been attending the class since it was first offered. “It gives me renewed energy and strength, and I look forward to every session,” Simms said.

Functional Fitness classes are offered Tuesdays and Fridays from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. now through the spring.  Participants are welcome to attend a single class or multiple classes.

Endurance Physical Therapy is located at 2201 Commerce Drive, Suite 3 on the west side of Grundy Center. The clinic offers a variety of services to help clients of all ages avoid surgery and pain medications, maximize mobility, manage pain, manage chronic conditions, improve physical function and improve fitness. Register or learn more by calling (319) 825-6287 or online at www.enduranceptiowa.com.