News

Fitness fun brings residents together
at PWL Slave Lake

February 21st, 2017

A twice-weekly exercise class which started in January at Points West Living Slave Lake is growing in numbers, and residents are seeing fitness results. For many residents the real success of the class is in physically challenging themselves, getting to know their neighbours, and having fun. 

A fun activity with plenty of laughs

HCA recreation assistant Delaila Mesina leads the classes, bringing out as many residents as she can, says recreation coordinator Martine Carifelle, “Delaila turns up the music and makes working out such a fun activity with plenty of laughs.”

Confidence in strength and mobility

Delaila started with exercises aimed at increasing upper body strength. “Last month many residents didn’t have the strength to pick up the little one-pound weights when they were doing their arm work,” says Martine, “And this month, many have started using the weights. They enjoy it and feel more confident in their strength and mobility.”

“Delaila has even noticed some of our residents who didn’t want to come and participate, now look forward to it and enjoy the time spent with their new community friends laughing and teasing each other to do as many reps as they can.”

Sing along, dance and get your body moving!

“You really do notice a difference in mood and spirit after an afternoon of fun,” adds Martine. "The point in doing exercise with our residents is to bring circulation to their limbs, promote health and give them strength mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually.”

“Who said exercise is boring?! Just turn up some music, sing along, dance and get your body moving!”

Photo: HCA care partner Delaila Mesina leads a twice weekly exercise class at PWL Slave Lake. Here she is surrounded by residents who are confidently using their 1-pound barbells to increase upper body strength. 

More photos at Flickr: Fitness fun brings residents together at PWL Slave Lake