Strong People

Published: 2020
By Mandie Reed

Wheatland County MSU Extension offers physical activity classes four days per week, beginning in September and ending in May. In March, when we had to stop meeting due to COVID-19, Extension Agent Mandie Reed adapted the class, and the group met virtually via Webex. This unexpected change resulted in two positive changes. The first is that participants became familiar and comfortable with the online format and technology. We hosted one-on-one meetings and calls to make sure that everyone knew how to log in, use Webex features, and felt confident. Hosting each class live gave participants a sense of purpose; they had someplace to be and someone who was expecting them. It was also an opportunity for them to connect with each other and check-in during uncertain times. Participants commented that they could use similar technologies to communicate with friends and family while they could not visit in person. The second positive change is that participants incorporated daily physical activity into their routine and continued to improve fitness during the stay-at-home orders. One participant shared, "Thank you so much for getting me in a routine and (for offering) a great class." When the stay-at-home orders were removed, they and several other participants felt confident enough to join the Armory Fitness Center and continue to work out most days. The participants also encouraged their spouses to become active as well.