CULLMAN, Ala. – A new strength and fitness class at Cullman First Baptist Church aims to help local seniors improve their balance, build strength and connect with others.
Jeanne Madara said she started the class after she fell in the church parking lot last year, which made her think more about her own health. “I am 62, and I realized as we age, our balance and strength leaves us if we don’t use it consistently,” Madara said.
After her fall, she said, she was surprised to learn that many others had similar experiences, showing there was a bigger need in the church community.
Madara, who encourages and coordinates the church’s senior group called Seasoned Saints, started the class to help people get stronger and steadier, while also building accountability and friendship. The group meets every Tuesday at 10 a.m. in a room on the north side of the church’s lower level. Each session starts with about 15 minutes of balance exercises using a chair, then moves on to around 30 minutes of seated strength training.
The class follows guided workouts from online instructors on a large TV, so everyone can go at their own pace. There’s no need to sign up, and anyone can join, no matter their fitness level. Madara said some people in the group are recovering from surgeries like knee or shoulder procedures, and they find the class helpful along with their physical therapy.
“My goal was encouragement and accountability,” she said. “Anyone can do this at home, but we all agreed that we just don’t do it at home.”
While the class is still growing, Madara said there’s space to expand, with plans to move to a bigger room if needed. Participants say the class has already brought people together, giving them not just physical benefits but also a chance to make friends.
“We truly have a good time,” Madara said. “We feel encouraged by each other and we have made new friends.”
Call the church at 256-734-5632 to learn more.
