Tell us a little about yourself.
“I was born in Peru, Indiana and lived there for 45 years. I’ve now lived in Mount Juliet since 2007.”
Are you married? Do you have children?
“Yes, I’m married and have three adult children.”
education?
“I’ve worked at the YMCA for 27 years and have several certifications in strength training, spinning, Pilates, TRX, barre, Baretone, yoga and Silver Sneakers.”
Your first job?
Screen printing shop
What is your current career?
“I organize and run senior fitness classes at the Mount Juliet Community Centre.”
Do you have any other jobs besides teaching exercise classes?
“Yes, I create a weekly newsletter from home. I also coordinate activities such as Zoomer trainers, monthly book clubs, widows’ support groups, and fundraisers. Currently, our group is planning to host an event to support the American Lung Association.”
Tell us about your passion for helping people over 55 stay healthy through exercise.
“My mission is to ensure that seniors do not lose their physical or mental freedom. Our groups blend physical, mental and emotional wellness through exercise and social interaction.”
Tell me about your exercise classes.
“Zoomer Fitness 55+ fitness classes are held Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to noon. There are two pricing tiers: community center membership and instructor donations. Classes range from eight to 20 participants.”
What types of exercise do you teach?
“I teach Classical Strength on Mondays and BarFit on Wednesdays. Other trainers teach Dance Fitness (BlaZe), Chair/Mat Yoga, and Cardio Circuits.”
Why this age group?
“I learn from them every day and tell them that age is just a number.”
Is the old-fashioned crunch still in style?
“Yes. The abdominal, lower back and buttock muscles are the engines used in daily life. You can effectively train these muscles while standing, sitting in a chair or even on the floor.”
What is the best overall exercise for people over 55?
“Simple: Squat while sitting or standing in a chair. “The glutes are the largest muscles in the body. We rely on them to get us to different places. They give us confidence and help us feel independent.”
Any fitness advice?
“Move, avoid sitting for long periods of time, stretch, and use common sense to control portion sizes. A calorie is a calorie.”
Are you also a private trainer?
Yes, we are available to provide coaching advice if requested.
What is your favorite healthy food?
“Raw vegetables.”
Hobby?
“Becoming a better trainer. Gardening. Quilting/crafting. Being a grandmother.”
What is your best childhood memory?
“I went to my grandma’s house. I cooked with her, cleaned with her, did yard work, did crafts, and played board games.”
What is a life lesson that sticks with you?
“Finish your work first.”
What would surprise us about you?
“I’m a skilled baker.”
Which living person do you most admire?
“my husband.”
What is perfect happiness for you?
“The whole family is happy together.”
If you could spend the evening with anyone from the past or present, who would it be and why?
“Seeing yourself when you were younger and understanding if you were really living the life you remember.”
What do you like most about Wilson County?
“It has everything you need to stay active and feel fulfilled.”
Where do you want to travel?
“Anywhere with the kids.”
