By Ewa Chwojko-Srawley
Juicy Joints, Spaghetti Spine, Zoo-ology—sounds fun, right? No wonder participants are laughing their way through these lively exercises. After all, laughter is an excellent workout!
These playful movements are part of Ageless Grace, a brain and body fitness program designed for all ages and abilities. The class is more than just exercise—it’s a chance to move, laugh, and connect in a welcoming and upbeat atmosphere.
In addition to Ageless Grace, the Town also offers free Nia and Chair Yoga classes at three locations: Keswick, Sutton, and Pefferlaw.
Lauren Helmkay, a wellness coach and recipient of the Georgina Business Excellence Community Spirit Award, says, “Being part of this program is a dream come true! The response from the community has been truly heartwarming. Many people join in every session offered throughout the week. The classes are welcoming and accessible for everyone to come out and give them a try.”
Laura LaPierre from Willow Beach shares, “I love that there are both daytime and evening classes, so I can go three times a week. All the instructors are great, and there’s no pressure—you go at your own pace. I feel wonderful at the end of each class. My favourite part is meeting new people in the community.”
Lynda Balena, who attends Nia (Non-Impact Aerobics) and Ageless Grace classes in Sutton, shares, “I feel so joyful after each class! I love the gentle movements and laughing with my fellow participants—it’s so much fun!”
Everyone agrees that the classes provide excellent mental and physical exercise, but they also highlight the importance of coming together, meeting new people, and simply being social.
Christine Rooks, one of the Ageless Grace instructors, says, “I love bringing joy to women. All three programs have certain guidelines, but we also get creative, adding our own ideas just for fun. Men are, of course, welcome too, but they only join us occasionally.”
These drop-in classes are funded by the Seniors’ Community Grant through the Government of Ontario and taught by Lauren Helmkay, Krista Young, Pauline Costello and Christine Rooks.
New programs will be added starting in February! For more information, visit: https://www.georgina.ca/things-do/recreation/older-adults-club-55/live-well-georgina-turning-page-age
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