Florence and Mary Lou are two of the early adopters, joining an exercise program started July 1 at Vista Prairie’s Windmill Ponds community in Alexandria. It’s one of the latest locations for Live 2 B Healthy - where a certified instructor brings vitality to seniors, three days a week.

“I’ve always exercised,” says Florence who is 90, but she says this program is more comprehensive. “They go all over your whole body, your arms and your legs and your shoulders.” The innovative program starts with a professional assessment, uses low-impact resistance bands rather than weights, and includes regular progress checks.

Ten to fifteen participants are already program regulars and benefiting in general wellness. “The residents have worked hard their whole lives,” reflects program founder Cory Czepa. “We believe it’s now time for them to enjoy life. Working side by side with each and every resident, Live 2 B Healthy® helps improve balance, coordination, flexibility, muscularity, stamina. As the body becomes healthier the spirit can soar.”

Mary Lou, 87, signed up with the encouragement of her daughter who is an RN. “She was so happy when they started this new program,” Mary Lou recounts. “She said that’s just what you need.”

The program is free to Windmill Ponds residents, but plans are to share the program with the community, starting in September.

“We’re inviting the public to join us at Windmill Ponds to participate, for a small monthly fee,” said Windmill Ponds Executive Director Chris Carter. Even before that, community members are invited to stop by and check it out. Dates and times for sessions are posted in the Windmill Ponds newsletter -- and on the Live 2 B Healthy website.

Mary Lou sums it all up, “Once we’re through with a session, I can feel my muscles have had a workout.”