Fitness group helps people with mobility issues

By Joan Janzen

A one-hour workout with friends at the gym is just what the doctor ordered, which is why the Parkinson’s support group in Kindersley was happy to find a gym and a trainer to help them out. Thanks to Anytime Fitness and its trainer, Stephanie Vandewiele, the group meets three times a week for one hour.

Blair Kornelson was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease 14 years ago. He participates in the Fit Fighter Group Class three times a week, which helps improve his mobility and flexibility. “He works twice as hard when he’s doing it with other people,” his wife observed. SUBMITTED

“It’s affordable, and the gym has waived the fees for us,” Karen Kornelson explained. During the past few years, the support group’s numbers have increased, and they have realized the need for a fitness class to help improve their mobility, strength, and flexibility.

Karen’s husband Blair was diagnosed with Parkinson’s fourteen years ago. Although the disease has progressed, Karen and Blair discovered a Parkinson’s boxing program while spending winter months in Arizona. It focussed on every muscle group and hand/eye coordination.

Now that they can no longer spend winter months in Arizona, Karen was looking for a group activity in Kindersley and was excited when the Fit Fighter Group Class began in December of last year.

“A group activity is so much better. Blair would never do this at home; he works twice as hard when he’s doing it with other people,” she said. “We have a special bond with the group.”

Six months later, all the regular participants are enjoying increased flexibility and mobility and experiencing less pain. The group also includes individuals who have been diagnosed with MS, fibromyalgia, arthritis and other mobility issues.

The participants enjoy the socializing, camaraderie, encouragement, and laughter. “You can hire a personal trainer, but a group activity is so much better,” Karen said. Now, people come from as far as Rosetown to attend the class.

“The first time one lady came, she said it was so much fun and so encouraging!” Karen said. “It’s never too late to start and to improve your health.”