By Chris Shott
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

People who live at Brooksby Village say there is plenty to do on campus to stay fit and maximize their physical conditioning.

Dozens of groups and clubs at Brooksby focus on life-enhancing experiences. Programs such as aquatics, billiards, aerobics, stretching, table tennis, tai chi, dancing, bocce, yoga, bowling, walking, and fitness-related instruction are testament to the level of involvement Brooksby residents enjoy—on a daily basis.

A major focal point of improving physical conditioning at Brooksby is the fitness center located in Towne Centre. On a recent afternoon, Eugene Skelton and Barbara Crowley, both of whom live at Brooksby, fully availed themselves of the amenities in the fitness center, moving from one piece of equipment to another to stay fit and better their health.

Full range of equipment
Equipment available in the fitness center includes treadmills, Airdyne bicycles, Nustep machines, and strength-training devices, including leg presses, chest presses, leg extensions, upper back conditioners, leg curls, and abdominal strengtheners.

“Everything here is state-of-the art and just about anyone can use it,” says Lisa Kirshon, Brooksby’s fitness specialist.

However, before people can jump on a stationary bicycle at Brooksby or start adding muscle to their physiques, they must undergo a rigorous assessment program.

Individualized fitness plans
“Everyone who wants to work out here must first receive approval from their physicians,” Kirshon says. “Then, we do a fitness evaluation, in which we test their balance, flexibility and endurance, and come up with plans to maximize their physical effectiveness.”

“We evaluate their strengths and weaknesses.” “We ask them what activities they have engaged in, what their fitness goals are, and what they like to do.”