By 2020 half of all Americans over 50 will have weak bones, making us at a higher risk for fractures. One in every five people with a hip fracture ends up in a nursing home. But increasing age does not necessarily mean a decline in physical fitness thanks to programs like the StrongWomen™ Program. Developed by Dr. Miriam Nelson at Tufts University and delivered by Penn State Extension, this community based strength-training program puts scientific research into practical application. Dramatic improvements in age associated conditions such as osteoporosis, arthritis and weight gain are being reported as a result of the program. The program was developed for women 40 years of age and older and is appropriate for both sedentary and very active women.
Penn State Extension, Clearfield Hospital, and DuBois Regional Medical Center will be offering the StrongWomen™ Program in five Clearfield County communities. Up-to-date nutrition and health information will be included with each session. The cost is $60.00, (payable to PSCE Clfd. Co. Program Funds). Pre-registration is required and financial assistance is available.
The Clearfield series begin February 15 and will meet Mondays and Wednesdays for 12 weeks in the Multipurpose Room of the Clearfield County Career and Technology Center. Two series will be offered meeting at 3:30 pm or 5:30 pm. Caroline Johnson, Gwen Crandell, Barbara Ardary and Nancy Collins will be the StrongWomen™ site leaders. To learn more about the program, attend the informational meeting on February 1, 5:30 pm, also at the Career and Technology Center.
The Brisbin series begin February 13 and will meet Mondays and Wednesdays for 12 weeks at the Brisbin First Church of God. Two series will be offered meeting at 9:00 am or 5:15 pm. Sandy Baughman, Judy Kephart, Mary Ann Hockman and Mary Kay Peachman will be the StrongWomen™ site leaders. To learn more about the program, attend the informational meeting on January 30, 5:15 pm, also at Brisbin First Church of God.
The Curwensville StrongWomen™ Program begins February 15 and will meet Mondays and Wednesdays at 5:30 pm, in Fellowship Hall of St. Timothy’s Catholic Church, 306 Walnut Street. Ronda Stiles and Rhonda Barrett will be the StrongWomen™ site leaders. An informational meeting will be held February 1, 5:30 pm in Fellowship Hall.
The Karthaus series begins February 14 and will meet Tuesdays and Thursdays for 12 weeks at 6:00 pm, at Karthaus Community Alliance Church. Deb Byron and Leslie McGonigal will be the StrongWomen™ site leaders. An informational meeting will be held on January 31, 6:00 pm, also at the Community Alliance Church.
The DuBois series begin January 31 and will meet Tuesdays and Thursdays for 12 weeks at the Oklahoma Fire Company. Two series will be offered meeting at 10:00 am or 5:30 pm. Lori Rancik, Sandra Wilson, Alice Daly and Karen Gerew will be the StrongWomen™ site leaders.
Strong bones allow us to move and protect our organs from injury. If we do not take care of our bones with a healthy diet and exercise, our bones may become fragile and break easily. Weakened bones are more difficult to heal and make strong again. Scientific research has demonstrated that exercising with weights will increase strength, muscle mass, and bone density. Performed just twice a week, strength training helps reverse the physical changes associated with growing older.
Penn State encourages persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodations or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact Andrea Bressler in advance of your participation or visit. Additional information is available by calling Andrea Bressler, Penn State Extension at 765-7878 or email at awb1@psu.edu; Shelley Spicher, Clearfield Hospital at 768-2054, or Lori Rancik, DRMC at 371-9666.