Determined and Thriving, Together

Nancy first joined the Y in September 2022, encouraged by a friend to give it a try. She was used to getting her exercise through daily activities, so she was unsure if group exercise would be a good fit. “Exercise has always been important to me,” Nancy said, “but it used to come from my job and daily walks with my dog. I wasn’t sure group classes were my style.”

Determined to find what worked, Nancy explored classes focused on strength and flexibility—eventually landing on the right combination of BodyBalance, Core, BodyPump, and MX4. “After two and a half years of hard work, I feel great,” said Nancy, “I’m 71, but I can do it!” 

Nancy’s commitment hasn’t gone unnoticed. “She shows up every Wednesday morning at MX4 ready to work,” said instructor Jamie Meissner. “Nancy is the epitome of ‘age is just a number.’ She can do a full minute of decline push-ups and tackles every workout with determination. She’s setting herself up to stay strong, independent, and injury-free.” Nancy’s bone density has increased slightly, mainly due to increased exercise. This is a huge accomplishment, since osteoporosis increases the risk of fractures, as well as pain.

Nancy has also embraced the unexpected sense of community at the Y. “Even though I didn’t come here for the social aspect, I found it anyway. We get to know each other, and that makes us accountable. We know if we don’t show up, we are missed,” she said. “Because of the Y, I feel healthier and more confident. I can do this—because we all do it together.”