April - June 2019

Swimming: Exercise Is Medicine Don Lenhart, 75, has been an active swimmer and runner for many years. “There is so much evidence that exercise is good for you,” he said. After retiring as a general surgeon in 2003, Don trained at the Cooper Institute in Texas, where their research is proving that “exercise is medicine.” For the last twelve years he has been teaching an exercise wellness program at Grace Episcopal Church in Sandusky. Five years ago, he became certified to teach warm water exercise classes and now volunteers at NOMS. “Warm water exercise is ideal for those who are living with arthritis, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease, stroke or need pain management,” he explained. “I have seen the benefits for students in my exercise classes at NOMS. I’m hoping the proposed Sandusky City Schools pool project comes to fruition so that the community will have the opportunity for warm water swimming as well.” Camille Sibbit, 55, was referred to NOMS for water therapy as she is unable to do floor exercises. After she completed her therapy, she transitioned to Don’s water exercise class. Like Don, she is a true believer in the benefits of exercise. “The water resistance is wonderful,” she reports, noting her joint movement has improved. She moves with less pain and feels better physically and mentally. “I have noticed that my mood and my mental stability is just so much better. It’s been an all-around positive experience. I have days when I lay in the bed and don’t want to go out because I feel tired and I’m hurting. Then I tell myself, if I don’t go, I’m going to remain tired and hurting. So, I get up and get moving.” The NOMS group aquatic classes are offered on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 5:15-6:00 p.m. and on Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 7:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 9:45 a.m., and 11:30 a.m. A Wednesday Zumba aquatic class was recently added on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. Participants are able to attend classes without becoming a NOMS member. The NOMS gym is open to the community and participants do not have to be patients. The fee for all classes is $5 per class for non-members. For more information, please contact Nicole Shelley at NOMS Fitness 24/7 at 419-502-3500, email nshelley@nomshealthcare.com Don Lenhart and Camille Sibbit Like us on www.servingourseniors.org 19