Wang YMCA of Chinatown healthy aging coordinator Katie Lei led a low-impact fitness class for older adults. (Image courtesy of Ling-Mei Wong.)
As she lifted weights and did squats at the Wang YMCA of Chinatown, Judy Sharko, 78, matched instructor Katie Lei’s every move.
“I love this class,” Sharko said. “I’m in the neighborhood with a gym in my building, but coming here, the Y has such good trainers and direction.”
Sharko is part of Lei’s low-impact fitness class for older adults. The Wang Y offers the Healthy Habits program for individuals 62 and older, with a free 12-week membership to help elders feel strong, steady and safe.
“We’re boosting confidence and helping folks get out of their houses,” said Lei, healthy aging coordinator at the Wang Y. “The program improves balance through exercises to build strength and prevent falls.”
Lei is fluent in Cantonese and Mandarin, helping participants who are Chinese American and conducting weekly health seminars. Healthy Habits is open to all older adults, requiring them to work out at least three hours of week with a variety of classes and individual exercise.
Quincy resident Mrs. Yuan could work out at the South Shore Y, but has been coming to the Wang Y since 2013. She came with her friend Mrs. Wong, also of Quincy, to work out with two other friends in Chinatown.
“I like to work out in the morning, then get lunch or coffee with my friends,” Yuan said. She and Mrs. Wong take the Red Line and transfer to the Orange Line to the Tufts Medical School stop next door to the Y, making the trip several times a week.
Positive social experiences are a benefit of Healthy Habits. “We have a large, robust and diverse senior population,” said Christy Benincasa, Healthy Living director. “I love coming in every morning and seeing people with their routines. It gives hope to others.”
Sharko stopped working out about two years ago, then felt she was losing her balance. She decided to join the Y to preserve her health and also takes classes at the University of Massachusetts, Boston.
“You’re supposed to keep your brain function to stay sharp and fit,” Sharko said. “You shouldn’t feel embarrassed if you’re older.”
Interested individual can sign up for Healthy Habits with Lei at klei@ymcaboston.org or (617) 904-1406.
