Gaining Strength

Published: 2022
By Janell Barber

After receiving many requests, a popular and previously held class, StrongPeople, was offered again this fall in Fort Benton, with 25 individuals registering. An average of 11 people attended the one-hour sessions twice weekly for the first four weeks. Participants reported beneficial progress after just four sessions. Ease of getting up and down a ladder, from the floor and low-to-the-ground chairs (elementary school) were top on the list of benefits of being active in the strength training program. Better sleep and overall mood were also reported as benefits. Into the fourth week of sessions, participants progressed in additional repetitions and/or heavier weights. In addition, many participants maintain the strength training sessions on one of the days a session is not held, leading to positive change in wellness behavior. The program is scheduled for 12 weeks, wrapping up in mid-January. Additional locations across the county are being planned to offer the class closer to other constituents.