The hallways at Arbor Terrace at Crabapple are hives of exercise activity six days per week, as residents increase their fitness levels without straying too far from their front doors.
“We have been so incredibly elated to notice that we’ve more than doubled our exercise participation because we’re coming to their hallway,” said Engagement Director Stephanie Mock. “They’re in quarantine; they’re not out and about as much. So, they’re wanting the social interaction and the physical interaction.”
In the early days of the pandemic, staffers put a chair outside each resident’s door so they could connect with neighbors during parties and other activities, while remaining socially distanced. And now the chairs are the centerpiece of the exercises.
The 20- to 25-minute exercise classes incorporate stretching and toning activities such as leg extensions and palm presses, plus a little cardio such as seated jumping jacks or running in place.
The fitness classes have helped residents tone their muscles, but Mock has also noticed that they’ve strengthened the bonds among neighbors.
“They’ve built a lot of camaraderie,” Mock said. “They’re encouraging each other, especially my first-floor hallway. They are just precious.”
After exercise, residents are rewarded with a snack break, but many residents sit in the hallway and socialize for another hour afterward.
The residents have developed a passion for exercise that extends beyond their individual hallways and friendships that go the distance as well.