Bone Builders...

Last week I started attending 'Bone Builders'. It is an exercise program for old people... with osteoporosis... and did I say old? Many of the participants are in their 70's and 80's. But a very nice bunch of ladies. There is lots of laughing, everyone is encouraging and supportive.

The program is run by RSVP (Retired Senior Volunteer Programs), and there is no cost to attend.

Each class is one hour long, and consists of a series of exercises such as: standing behind your chair, hold on to the back of the chair, and raise your leg (with weights on your ankle) slowly to the count of 5, then slowly back again. This is done five times with one leg, then you switch to the other. Some exercises are done sitting in the chair, lifting small weights.

It all seemed so simple, and I kept wondering how this was going to help me. Well....... the very first night I found out that I slept through the night. DID NOT WAKE UP WITH PAINS IN MY KNEES as I have done for over two years!!! So I will be attending 2 or 3 times a week. Who knew that something so simple and easy could reap such benefits?

Apparently, the program has been around for quite some time, all over the country. Now I'm wondering why I had to hear about it from a friend, and not my doctor! Although I did have to have my drs. signed permission for me to attend.

As you progress in the program, the weights on your ankle and those you hold are increased. A friend of mine has been attending for two years, and she uses 20 LBS. ON EACH OF HER ANKLES!!! They started me at 2 lbs. so I have a way to go.

Wish me luck!