WESTFIELD-For city residents eager to start a fitness routine – and have “fun” in the process – a new program on cable Channel 15 this month will offer a home exercise program that incorporates a total fitness concept.
“This low-level, low-impact, easy-to-follow movement fitness program is geared toward entry level seniors,” said Tina Gorman, executive director, Westfield Council on Aging and Westfield Senior Center. “More experienced exercisers can join the fun by modifying the program to suit their personal preference.”
The 45-minute class – “Totally FUN Fitness!” – will feature Carol Palmer, known locally for the enthusiastic exercise classes she taught for the older adult program at the YMCA of Greater Westfield. In 2018, Palmer retired from that role after serving at the YMCA for 40 years.
Carol Palmer is leading a “Totally FUN Fitness!” program this month on cable Channel 15. (SUBMITTED PHOTO)
“This was my first time ‘on camera’,” noted Palmer, who added she felt “pretty comfy” in the studio during the taping.
Palmer said she had been “so impressed” with Gorman’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis that she called to express her gratitude on behalf of the older adults in Westfield.
“The staff and volunteers of the Westfield Senior Center have gone above and beyond for the past year,” said Palmer. “I offered to help in any way I could. So, I got a phone call a few months ago and Tina requested that I make a new video class for the Senior Center to be broadcast on Channel 15. I was happy to do it.”
Palmer taped a simple, 45-minute class for entry level participants that includes warm ups, cardio, cool down, strength training and balance techniques.
“Even if people are active, I think most of us have been a bit de-conditioned over the last several months,” said Palmer, adding she has incorporated some fun aspects into the workout that she used during her YMCA days.
“I did use oldies music but only instrumental as Pete Cowles, the sound guru, thought it best to eliminate the vocals as it would distract from my speaking to the audience,” said Palmer, adding she also reintroduced some old jokes in the routine.
During the session Palmer has provided two levels for the exercises so those who are a bit more fit could step it up a little.
“I always used to tell my crowd that it has more to do with ability and not so much with the number of times you have been around the sun,” she said, encouraging viewers of all ages to consider tuning in and getting back into shape this spring.
The class can be viewed on Channel 15 at 10:30 a.m. on April 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 21, 26 and 28. For persons who do not have access to Channel 15 but have internet service, visit www.cityofwestfield.org and under “Community,” click on Community Access TV, CH 15 Live Stream.
