By Shelby Clark
Health benefits from exercise don't stop at a young age. More gyms and recreation centers are catering classes, programs and even equipment towards seniors.
Casey Czuj of Vital Performance Fitness in Southfield follows this trend with their small gym. "Our goal was to open a small fitness studio where people would share camaraderie of working out together, sharing goals and encouraging one another to overcome their personal fitness challenges."
The main approach used at the gym run by Czuj, and her mother, Patti, is called "PowerPlate Training."
PowerPlate training is a "wellness solution for all ages." A medically approved machine, it uses "vibrations" and post-workout massage to help seniors reach their strength and stability goals with minimal pain.
The technique is similarly beneficial for those with issues such as fibromyalgia, sciatica and previous surgeries. Bodily improvements outside of stength include reduced pain and inflammation, decreased stiffness and increased walking ability.
The center claims that, "Power Plate training is guaranteed to rebuild bone mineral density 85-90 percent. (We) offer a dynamic total body workout, and in order to challenge the muscles further, we incorporate kettlebells, body bars and free weights."
Vital Performance Fitness also claims that clients will notice differences in stability, strength and agility in as little as six sessions, with each session lasting 25 minutes.
Czuj notes, "'I always feel so much better when I leave than when I came in' is often heard by our senior clients walking out the door. Regardless of age, fitness level or disability, each and every one of our clients exhibit improvement in range of motion, cardiovascular system, strength, balance and agility. Most report reduced joint pain, attributing their wellness to Power Plate workouts."
TRX training, using leverage and suspension of the body's own weight to improve strength and endurance, is also offered at the fitness center.
Vital Performance Fitness is open six days a week and is located at 29536 Northwestern Highway in Southfield. PowerPlate classes start at $20 for one session, with deals of $85 for five classes and $150 for 10 classes. The business is currently offering a free session to all new clients. There are no sign-up fees.
