Schaumburg seniors have numerous options when it comes to staying fit and healthy.
David Jennings, Annette Koepke, Bill Schneider, Mary Shirmang and Ed Kelby are just some of the seniors benefiting from Schaumburg Park District’s fitness opportunities.
David Jennings, a senior who has lived in Schaumburg for more than twenty years, completed November’s Indoor Sprint Triathlon for the second year. Physically fit best describes this senior who conquered a 10-minute swim, 15-minute bike and 15-minute run at the Community Recreation Center, 505 N. Springinsguth Road. The cold November morning isn’t any different than most days for Jennings at the Park District’s fitness centers.
Jennings has a busy week every week working out at the Schaumburg Park District. He swims two to three times every week, takes an indoor cycling class twice a week and uses the fitness machines once or twice a week.
That isn’t the complete routine either. He also bikes outside when the weather is nice.
“I vowed to keep myself in good shape and eat healthy after a heart attack three years ago,” said Jennings. “Working out is the healthiest thing I can do. I do it for my wife and family.”
While Jennings participates in many different activities to keep his heart pumping, some seniors are sticking to the fitness center and indoor pool at the Community Recreation Center.
Annette Koepke started taking Schaumburg Park District’s 55 and Alive group fitness classes, now Club 55, over 20 years ago at the Community Recreation Center. She met other women in the land class and friendships blossomed. Koepke and her friends still meet for coffee in the District’s senior center after their workouts.
“It’s important for me to stay healthy through exercise,” said Koepke. “I especially appreciate the company of the friends I’ve met over the years.”
Koepke also enjoys the fitness center upstairs at the Community Recreation Center.
The Community Recreation Center’s fitness center fanatic Bill Schneider has a passion for fitness even in his older years. Schneider, who exercises four days each week for two and a half hours, has a complete workout routine that includes the treadmill, rowing machines, stationary bicycle and weights. Schneider has been active in sports his whole life and doesn’t plan on slowing down. He sticks strictly to exercise and doesn’t count calories.
“Fitness allows me to have less aches and pains,” said Schneider.
In addition to the land classes and the fitness center, Schaumburg Park District offers aqua classes for seniors at The Water Works, located inside the Community Recreation Center, and Schaumburg Tennis Plus, 1416 N. Payne Road.
Mary Shirmang began taking Club 55 land classes in 1988 in order to keep moving into her golden years. About four years ago, she switched to water aerobics due to the lower amount of pressure inflicted on her joints and two new knees. She attends class four times a week.
“I never miss my aqua fitness classes,” said Shirmang. “If I didn’t take them, I would probably stiffen up like a board. The water aerobics keep me flexible and able to garden.”
While there are many fitness opportunities, some seniors prefer organized senior group activities including the golf league.
Ed Kelby co-chairs the S&H Seniors golf league, a program sponsored by the Park District, and manages the league’s website. The avid golfer began playing seven years ago when he retired.
“I learn valuable tips for everyday life from friends in the golf community,” said Kelby.
The activities and friends he met through the Park District allow him to replace his former work life with a life of leisure activities that keep him on the go and on the course.
“I have less time now that I am retired,” adds Kelby. “There’s always something going on.”
For more information about senior activities at Schaumburg Park District, call (847) 490-7026 or visit www.parkfun.com.
