Residents at 91原创 Seniors Village can now take part in free fitness classes with the expansion of a program through Fitness World and Retirement Concepts Senior Living.
Following the success of their initial pilot program in April 2024, the partnership is now expanding to four locations. This long-term partnership will provide free fitness classes every quarter at Rosemary Heights Seniors Village in Surrey, 91原创 Seniors Village, White Rock Seniors Village, and Maple Ridge Seniors Village.
Each 30-minute class focuses on low-impact, seated movements, with modifications to accommodate residents of varying mobility levels. The exercises emphasize light stretching and mobility to ensure seniors have access to a broad range of physical activities.
According to a report released by Statistics Canada, the life expectancy of Canadians is around 81 years, with heart disease remaining one of the leading causes of death. Regular physical activity plays a critical role in not only extending life expectancy but also enhancing the quality of those later years.
The program diversifies the seniors鈥� routines by bringing in Fitness World鈥檚 licensed trainers. This expert guidance ensures that each participant can engage with the exercises at their own pace, while still learning new techniques.
鈥淭his partnership between Fitness World and Retirement Concepts is a great match. Our seniors love the Fitness World trainers, especially the energy they bring to their classes,鈥� said Laura Shanahan, regional sales manager for Retirement Concepts. 鈥淭his partnership is an excellent way for us to show that we provide much more than just housing for seniors. We take great pride in providing quality care, food, friendships, and recreational opportunities that are healthy and most of all 鈥� fun. 鈥nd everyone, including seniors, staff, and families, appreciates their energy and enthusiasm.鈥�
All classes are held at the senior facilities to meet residents where they are, both in terms of their skillset and physical location which reduces barriers to access and ensures that as many seniors as possible can participate.
鈥淲e believe that fitness should be accessible to all, and having access to fitness is a fundamental need for all individuals. By partnering with community partners like Retirement Concepts, we are able to bring essential access and applicable fitness programming directly to underserved senior populations across Vancouver,鈥� shares Chris Smith, Fitness World president and CEO. 鈥淣o matter your age or potential limitations, regular movement and mobility is essential for all. We hope that these community programs encourage our Lower Mainland communities to prioritize their health and wellness so that their bodies continue to remain strong as we age.鈥�
This partnership marks the first program in Fitness World鈥檚 Active Community Initiative that has evolved from a successful pilot program. While this first program is directed towards senior communities, company with 17 gym locations around the Lower Mainland is looking to expand this model to reach more underserved communities in the future.
