Senior Center Best Practices

Managers, Directors and Center Personnel

Senior Center Best Practices

Category
Other

Senior Center/Nutrition Program/Organization Name
Vintage

Address
401 North Highland Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15206

Phone Number
412-361-5003

E-Mail
tsturgill@vintageseniorservices.org

Contact Person
Tom Sturgill

Event Name
Men's Exercise Class

Description/Overview
Historically, our group exercise classes have had low male participation. Usually a couple of guys in a room full of ladies. Our instructors have always been female as well. A free 6-week Men's Exercise Class with a male instructor was offered in Winter 2010 on a trial basis. The class proved successful and was continued after the trial, with approximately 15 participants attending on a regular basis. The class is mostly strengthening and stretching with hand weights and bands. The class meets once a week on Thursday afternoons.

Time and Manpower
A few hours to launch the program.

Marketing
A flyer was posted in the center in locations such as the Billiards Room and Men's Restroom. Announcements were made in the Billiards Room. Mention was made on the Wellness Page of the quarterly newsletter.

Audience Served
Male Older Adults.

Partnerships Utilized
The male instructor was recruited from an existing collaboration with the Parkinson Chapter of Greater Pittsburgh.

Budget/Costs
$35 per week for instructor.

Impact On Center
The number of men participating in exercise in the center has increased significantly. The impact on their health should be significant as well.

Good Tips/Other
The quality of the instructor makes a big difference. The men enjoy his personality, humor, and the challenge of the exercises which vary from week to week.