Congratulations to Susie Horn, our November Fitness Patron of the Month!

Check out her story here:

Hi, I’m Susie!  I’m a wife of 40+ years, mother of two amazing children and grandmother to four beautiful grandchildren. In 2020, my husband and I relocated to Firestone to be closer to our family here in Colorado.
For over 30 years, I was what you might call a workaholic in a demanding job that required a lot of travel. That lifestyle didn’t leave much time for hobbies. I often dreamed about retirement and what that might look like someday, but truthfully, I was a little afraid of it. I’ve always been a planner, yet somehow, I didn’t plan far enough ahead for this stage of life.
Then, at once, everything changed—COVID hit, lockdowns began, stores closed, and I found myself in a new community where I didn’t know anyone. And then came forced retirement. I had looked forward to meeting new people and making friends after our move, but COVID slowed that process. When neighbors started moving in, I could chat a little here and there, but it wasn’t enough. I struggled. I complained. I second-guessed our move, felt sorry for myself, and vented to my husband and kids. My daughter, either out of sympathy or exhaustion from hearing me, did some research and suggested I try the SilverSneakers program.
I looked online and saw the many options available, but I still made excuses. I’ve never been someone who enjoys exercise, and I’m not motivated to go to a gym alone. (Trust me, I’ve joined plenty of gyms over the years and never stuck with them.) I need structure, and I really wanted to meet people my age, people I could connect with. My daughter mentioned that Carbon Valley had classes that would be right up my alley. After a couple of months of nudging from her (and more procrastination from me), I finally went to the community center to sign up. While I was there, I asked if I could peek in on a class. The staff encouraged me too, and I must admit, my first impression wasn’t great. Through the window, I saw women sitting in chairs holding small balls. I remember thinking, “what did I get myself into?” I had pictured heart-pumping cardio—how was that going to happen sitting down? But I was wrong.
The next week, I attended my first SilverSneakers Classic class, not even knowing what “Classic” meant. From the moment I walked in, everyone (the front desk staff, the instructor, and the participants) was so kind and welcoming. I didn’t even need to say I was new; they could tell and they helped me every step of the way. They showed me how to get the equipment, where to place my chair, and how to clean up afterward. And wow, what a workout! It was exactly what I had been missing: a welcoming community of kind, caring people my age, and a truly effective exercise routine. I enjoyed it so much that I attended two more classes that week.
One of my favorite parts is the educational aspect. These instructors are true professionals who explain which muscles we’re working and why it’s important to strengthen them as we age. They teach us about posture, “shoulders up, back, and down,” and even how to safely rise from a chair (root to rise). It’s awesome!
Although classes last about 45 minutes to an hour, I’ve managed to turn them into full, active mornings four days a week. I’ve always loved walking, so I started showing up early to walk about four miles before class. After a few months, some of the ladies asked to join me. I wasn’t going to turn that opportunity down! Now, a couple of us walk together before class; another great way to stay active and build friendships.
SilverSneakers was exactly the ticket I needed.If you’re looking for a way to meet amazing people, make friends, have fun, and get healthier at the same time, give it a try. Come join us, we’d love to meet you!