Heritage Green class offers fitness, fellowship
Nataliia Murza, left, leads the fitness class at Heritage Green in Kidron. The free class is held twice a week, and most of the exercises are done while seated in a chair.
In the cold winter months, it can be hard to stay active, and it can get lonely.
A new fitness class held at the Heritage Green condos center in Kidron offers an opportunity for connection and fitness.
Especially geared toward those more advanced in years but suitable for all ages, most of the exercises are done while seated in a chair and include stretching and posture work, light balance and coordination, finger and arm exercises for flexibility, arm and shoulder exercises for strength and dexterity, and leg exercises to improve strength and mobility.
“This is a fantastic chance to connect with others in a positive, friendly environment,” said Nataliia Murza, who leads the classes.
Similar to a Silver Sneakers class and open to men and women, participants enjoy the familiar and close location to their homes and community. Currently, only ladies attend the free classes, and some of them have added a donation box.
“It’s worthwhile,” retired teacher Virgene Steffen said.
Started a few months ago once a week, Murza added in a second time slot to accommodate more people.
“They often have doctors appointments or other commitments, so this allows them to come once or twice a week — whatever suits them,” Murza said.
If the class size gets larger, she hopes to be able to have classes in one of the buildings at Evergreen Park.
Murza said she has seen improvements with the ladies who have been consistently coming.
“I lead these fitness classes because I want to help people stay active and healthy. It’s truly a joy to see people improving with each class, getting better and better at the exercises,” she said. “Hearing the laughter, seeing the joy and witnessing how everyone supports one another is so rewarding.
“It’s a blessing to be part of this community, where we not only focus on our physical health, but also uplift each other spiritually. I’m grateful to be able to help and be surrounded by such a positive, faith-filled group.”
Barb Miller, one of the participants, said she needed to go home and take a nap after class. “It looks like we’re not doing much, but she works our shoulders,” Miller said.
“I come for the fellowship, the fun and the fitness,” Ruby Kuhns said.
Classes are Wednesdays at 2 p.m. and Fridays at 11:30 a.m. and last around an hour. The ladies greet each other, and Murza opens the class in a prayer.
Murza immigrated with her son from Ukraine in 2022 soon after the war started. Her husband and his parents also have immigrated and are involved in the Kidron community.
During her time in university, she taught The Basics of a Healthy Lifestyle, focusing on topics like staying motivated, eating balanced meals and staying physically active, and she led fitness classes for students.
“I also explored Pilates as a way to help with recovery, manage stress, improve flexibility and mobility,” Murza said.
“We are really privileged to have these classes. I love seeing the other ladies. And as we age, our bodies clam up. This helps,” Edna Miller said.
Classes are located in Kidron at the clubhouse in the Heritage Green condos. Murza also currently offers 45-minute private wellness sessions for a charge that support hand health and mental well-being. Interested people can email or call her for class updates and more information at nat0920g@ukr.net or 330-521-4939.