Finding Strength, Balance, and Community — One Class at a Time

A blog written by a student and friend

About two and a half years ago, I joined the gym with a few objectives in mind: maintain my strength, improve my balance, and become more flexible even though I'm in my mid 60's. Like many people, I quickly learned something about myself. I wasn’t very committed when I worked out on my own. It was just too easy to skip a day, cut a workout short, or convince myself that “good enough” was enough.  I recall the day when I walked into the gym, looked at all the weights and said to myself,  "those weights look really good right where they are and they don't need to be moved".  I turned around and walked out the door.  

Something needed to change or I needed to cancel my membership.

Instead of relying on solo workouts, I started signing up for classes. My thinking was simple: if I put my name on the list, I’d be more likely to show up and stick it out. I experimented with a five different classes but eventually discovered Vanessa's Yoga classes.

As an older man with no experience in Yoga, I was a little apprehensive. I didn’t see many men in the classes, and I wasn’t sure if I’d fit in or be able to keep up. Still, curiosity eventually won out. I decided to give Yoga,  Barre Sculpt, and Barre Choreo a try.  

I’m happy to report that attending the various flavors of Yoga have turned out to be the best decisions I’ve made in my fitness journey and overall well-being.

Over time, I’ve seen improvements in strength, balance, and flexibility. I’ve found a rhythm that really works for me: I do my weight training before Vanessa’s classes. That way, when I walk out of class, I feel energized, stretched out, and open rather than tight or bound up from lifting.

Beyond the physical benefits, there’s been an unexpected bonus from meeting new people.  Showing up consistently has led to friendships with other members, connections that now extend beyond the gym and into everyday life.

This experience has taught me that fitness isn’t just about the exercises themselves; it’s about finding an environment that keeps me engaged, supported, and coming back.