May 19, 2005

Mom's workouts

Ick. They're predicting highs of 112 here by Sunday, ourfirst really hot days for the year. Good weekend to get out of town.

I was talking to my mom the other day about her exercise program. She's not really erging any more, but that's OK because the reason is that she's taking some exerciseclasses in things like Jazzercise and Pilates. My mom is (or was) one of the most unathletic people I know. Her balance and flexibility aren't great - I mean, for working-out purposes; they're fine for daily living. Until recently I'd never seen her get any exercise other than walking (she shares her brother's ability to sightsee all day without getting exhausted) and the not-incidental amount you necessarily get in raising two kids. But she's been going faithfully to the gym for the last couple of years now. I'm impressed.

I give the credit to the gym, mostly. (Well, to her of course, for doing the hard work, but to the gym for providing an environment where she's comfortable and welcome.) It's a JYC, and that J is important to her. She's becoming even more active in her synagogue than she used to be, and is learning more about Judaism, so a Jewish community center feels like a homey place to her. Also, she's one of those who is motivated mostly by making connectins to other people, so a place where she can walk in and everyone knows her is perfect for her, and so is working out in a group class.

I love seeing older women being or becoming active and athletic. They're my future. Especially in this specific case: I've always figured that anything Mom can do, I can. And of course I'm liking the results the gym and synagogue classes have been having: they've made both her mind and body stronger and more active and alert. She feels better and is more interesting to talk to.

Posted by dichroic at May 19, 2005 12:23 PM
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