The University of Missouri Extension will offer “Stay Strong, Stay Healthy,” a 10-week exercise program designed for men and women over age 50, starting at 10 a.m. on Sept. 21. Classes will be held at the Christian County Extension center located on the square in Ozark.
Classes will be held on Wednesdays for 10 weeks and will last an hour. The first class will last 90 minutes to allow time for an orientation to the program and to complete health assessments.

The “Stay Strong, Stay Healthy” program, developed by Tufts University, is designed to help older adults improve strength, flexibility, and balance. According to research conducted by Tufts, strength training improves bone density, can help reduce falls, improve arthritis symptoms, increase flexibility in older adults and can lead to a healthier, more active lifestyles.

“The first series of classes in Christian County ended and several of the current participants asked if they could sign up again,” said Renette Wardlow, human development specialist with MU Extension. “We have also had a number of phone calls about the program so we decided to offer the class again.”

The exercises are low-impact/low weight and all the necessary equipment is provided.

The program is limited to 20 participants and costs $25. Adults in a defined income bracket may be eligible to receive a fee reduction/waiver. Some participants may have to obtain their physician’s permission before taking part in the class.

For more details, contact Renette Wardlow at the University of Missouri Extension center in Ozark, (417) 581-3558.

About 1,900 Missouri residents have taken part in MU Extension’s Stay Strong, Stay Healthy program since it began in 2005. More than 90 percent of participants have reported enjoying better physical strength and general well-being because of the program.

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