by Nicole B.
As summer ends, the DRCA is busy starting up all our programs for the fall and winter seasons. One of the programs we will be welcoming back is the adult fitness class run by Nola Richardson every Tuesday night. The Villager decided to get to know more about her and learn what her fitness classes are all about!
Nola has been a fitness teacher for many years. She loves working on her own fitness and health, and helping others do the same. She began her journey with fitness because of an injury.
“I became an instructor so that I would have the knowledge to prevent injury, to take care of myself, and be better prepared for future fitness endeavors.” she says.
Fitness can be crucial when preventing injuries; even a little stretching every day can make a difference. Nola uses her experience and knowledge of fitness to help teach her classes and help others work towards their own fitness goals. Nola focuses on a “total body workout” in her classes.
“It is geared to using all muscles. Plus, we do stretches, and core [exercises],” she says.
Nola also points out; the body isn’t the only thing being exercised. Your mind works out too! “Mental health wise, clients are able to focus on the instructor for an hour, and whatever they came in thinking about goes away because they are focused on working out,” she says.
The Mental Health Commission of Canada concurs, physical activity strengthens your mental health by increasing production of ‘feel good’ chemicals like dopamine and serotonin which can improve your mood, reduce stress and anxiety, boost self-esteem, enhance cognitive function, and reduce symptoms of depression.
So, what’s her advice for first-timers nervous about trying a fitness class?
“Come and have fun, nobody is watching,” she says.
Nola creates a positive and encouraging environment for anyone interested in joining. There is a place for everyone in her classes.
“Everyone starts at the beginning,” she says.
Adult Fitness by Nola
Restarts September on Tuesdays at 7:00 pm.
The cost is $10 per class.
Drop in at any time.
For more information, visit www.deerruncalgary.com/programs-classes.
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