StrongPeople Strength Training Program Impacts Local Residents

Published: 2022
By Inga Hawbaker

StrongPeople is a national, evidence-based community exercise program that has been increasingly popular in Daniels County, led by the previous and now current MSU Extension Agent. While the program is open to individuals of all ages, the curriculum targets the aging population, helping participants retain strength, stay independent longer, and avoid chronic illness. The program grew out of research published by Dr. Miriam E. Nelson of Tufts University on bone density in older adults, which became popular through her first book, Strong Women Stay Young. For the current 2022-2023 winter session, 12 female participants registered for the program. Returning community members attest to the benefits of the exercise curriculum. Previous class participants provided the following statements: • “It keeps me active and my bones strong and my muscles more flexible.” • “This program motivated me to keep exercising at home. There is no charge for this program and it is a blessing to many seniors. Thank you!” • “On 5/11 and 5/12 I planted 600' of corn and potatoes, and my subsequent stiffness/muscle soreness was minimal. I barely felt the soreness! Thank you, Strong Woman.” A participant survey found that 86% of local participants could move more freely and easily, had better balance, increased mobility, and stamina, and 100% reported sleeping better and feeling less stressed and anxious. Approximately 67% of participants experienced a decrease in chronic pain, with 100% of the participants reporting that they intend to maintain a similar physical activity routine on their own. Participants value the comradery the program fosters and depend on it to stay active during northeast Montana’s long winter months.