Fitness Classes in Riverdale

Chris' Gentle and Active Fitness classes are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Gentle Fitness runs from 11:30AM to 12:30PM and Active Fitness runs from 12:30PM to 1:30PM .

The classes are held at Eastminster United Church, 310 Danforth Avenue near Chester Subway Station. (Use the church entrance off Jackman Avenue.) Click here for a map.

What makes these classes special?

Staying Strong fitness classes are designed for older adults who want a complete fitness workout led by someone who understands what it means to be over 50. The music includes familiar tunes from Big Band, Motown, and classic Rock and Roll.

Unlike most classes you would take at a gym, these cover all the major components of a fitness program:

• Strength training through resistance exercise to keep your muscles and bones strong, reduce bone loss, and improve your balance and posture;

• Balance training to improve your balance and posture, helping you avoid falls;

• Cardio-respiratory training through aerobic exercise to give you more energy and make your heart and lungs stronger and your circulatory system more efficient;

• Flexibility training through stretching exercises to keep your muscles relaxed and joints mobile to allow you to move more easily and with less pain.

Chris conducts all his classes in a friendly, supportive atmosphere, and he is able to modify the exercises to address many particular health issues you may have.

Can I try out a class for free?

Yes! You can drop in on one class and try it out yourself for free.

What are the differences in Gentle Fitness and Active Fitness?

Gentle Fitness class features walking, seated, and some standing movement for the cardio component. Muscle conditioning, balance, and flexibility training are done seated or standing beside a chair. Emphasis is on functional fitness to help activities of daily living. Gentle Fitness is ideal for post-rehab heart and stroke patients, osteoporotic clients, and in general anyone who is new to group exercise or wants a gentler approach to fitness.

Active Fitness class is geared toward older adults who are used to exercising regularly but still want a program that is low impact, easy on the joints, and still meets their fitness goals. The cardio component is done standing in "studio style" format, with participants facing the instructor for uncomplicated but invigorating choreography. Muscle conditioning, balance, and flexibility training are done standing and lying on a mat. You may use the mats provided or bring your own.

Both the Gentle Fitness and Active Fitness classes cover all four components of fitness: strength, cardio, flexibility, and balance. The Stretch and Strength class does not have a cardio component. Resistance bands, balls, and other aids are used for the muscle conditioning exercises so there are no heavy weights to worry about. Equipment is provided for use in the class.

How much do these classes cost?

Cost is $10 per single class, $120 for 16 classes (a $40 savings), $64 for 8 classes (a $16 savings), $42.50 for 5 classes (a $7.50 savings). Price includes HST. Cash or cheque only. Please contact Chris first to discuss which class is right for you. You will need to complete a PAR-Q form and a Registration form prior to registering for your classes. However, you are free to drop in for your first class as long as you inform us of your health status and complete an informed consent form. We reserve the right to ask you first to speak with your doctor before joining the class if there are health concerns that may put you at risk of being more physically active.