National Kidney Foundation launches new Enhance Fitness site in Ypsilanti

YPSILANTI – Stick to your New Year’s fitness resolutions at the new EnhanceFitness location in Ypsilanti at the Lincoln Golden Ages Senior Center, 8970 Whittaker Road. Ongoing one-hour classes are now being held every Wednesday from 10:10 am to 11:10 am. Classes are presented by the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan (NKFM). Donations are accepted to defray costs, but not required. Drop-ins are always welcome. To register or for more information, call 800-482-1455.

EnhanceFitness (EF) is an evidence-based physical activity program specifically designed for adults of all ages, including those with arthritis or other chronic conditions. The programs are inclusive and can be modified for adults with different abilities and fitness levels. The low impact classes, taught by certified EF-trained fitness instructors, is geared toward improving the overall functional fitness and well-being of primarily older adults.

“People can get a good workout in a nonjudgmental environment. No special equipment is necessary and we modify the moves depending on participants’ abilities. You can stand or sit in a chair,” states Lisa Klinkman, NKFM EnhanceFitness Program Coordinator. “The classes give people a sense of independence and also provide a social component.”

EnhanceFitness focuses on cardiovascular conditioning, strength training, flexibility, and balance. Every participant has access to a chair for seated or standing exercises. Instructors conduct functional fitness assessments on participants, look for any risk factors, help with setting goals and motivate the class.

If you have questions about starting a physical activity program, talk to your doctor. If you do not have a doctor because you do not have health care coverage, consider applying for health care coverage, including Medicaid, through your local Department of Health and Human Services office. You can also apply online www.mibridges.michigan.gov or call 1-855-789-5610.

More information on EF classes can be found at nkfm.org/enhance-fitness or by calling 800-482-1455. To find additional EF classes in Michigan, visit mihealthyprograms.org.

About the NKFM
The mission of the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan is to prevent kidney disease and improve the quality of life for those living with it. The NKFM provides more programs and services to more people in Michigan than any other region or state. For the past 12 years, Charity Navigator — the nation’s leading nonprofit evaluator — has recognized the NKFM with its highest rating of 4 stars for success in sound fiscal management. nkfm.org