Bone Builders Exercise Program Launches

On a beautiful autumn day, the Wellness Center at Nicollet Towers apartment building was buzzing with energy. Jokes were being told, people were laughing, and friends were connecting…all while strengthening their bones.

RSVP has recently launched a Bone Builders exercise initiative that aims to connect older adults with physical and social benefits. Bone Builders is an RSVP Signature Program, developed based on research from Tufts University. The class is held twice a week, and participants use a combination of weight-bearing exercises, balance, and strength training. The idea behind the program is to increase muscle and bone density, which reduces the risk of falls associated with osteoporosis. Classes are taught by peer volunteers and are designed to make participants feel comfortable and welcome.

Pat Reisenger, a retired teacher, is a talented, energetic class leader at Nicollet Towers. She told jokes and gave good advice to the particpants, encouraging them to work at their own level. “The best thing about Bone Builders is that I can do it for myself and others,” says Reisenger, who also teaches yoga. “It’s good for me too.”

The mental and social component of the class is just as important as the physical aspects are. Relationships are often formed in the classes as the participants encourage and support each other.

 
“It’s nice to be with other people,” said vibrant 99 year-old Inez, who kept up with the class quite nicely. “My doctor said that I should exercise since I broke my hip.”

A similar class also takes place at Hope Lutheran Church in Minneapolis. Class leader Bunny Anderson leads a full class with age ranges between 64-90. Her enthusiasm and care for the participants is very apparent in her teaching style. “I enjoy it just as much as they do,” said Anderson.

And the class is free…a refreshing change from the big box gyms and other health care programs. Bone Builders strives to remove financial barriers and eliminates the intimidation factor of traditional gyms. All older adults are welcome to attend, however, participants are required to complete a health information form and get medical clearance from their physician. In order to receive the greatest benefits from Bone Builders, participants are also asked to commit to attending class twice weekly for at least six months. Volunteer physical therapists and health educators will also track the success of individuals, using a health assessment on the upper and lower body.

 
Nancy Sonmore, is a health educator who completed assessments on the participants at Nicollet Towers and Hope Lutheran. “I think Bone Builders is a great program. Any senior can do it,” said Sonmore. “It is a source of stimulation for them and a way for them to connect with others.” Sonmore will re-assess the class members in 3 months to track their success.

Due to the popularity of the program, RSVP is always looking for Bone Builders class leaders and volunteer physical therapists or health educators to do assessments. Please call 952-945-4161 for more information.