In December 2020 I moved to Colorado. I wanted to connect with 55+ seniors and serve in the community. While exploring opportunities, I learned about Carbon Valley’s Active Adults Community Center and the SilverSneakers fitness programs. The Community Center staff is awesome and welcomes all seniors.

Today, I regularly attend SilverSneakers Classic with Sheri on Mondays and SilverSneakers Circuit with Suzi On Wednesdays and Sheri on Fridays at the Community Center. The instructors are phenomenal. These classes have become an important part of my fitness routine.

Since participating, I have noticed improvements in my energy, endurance, flexibility, strength, movement, and balance. I have also shown positive health outcomes with improved blood pressure readings.

One of the greatest benefits has been the opportunity to connect with 55+ seniors in a supportive environment where we encourage one another in meeting our wellness goals. At the end of each class, I feel happier, more energized, and mentally sharper. The classes help me maintain a positive outlook and give me the energy I need to keep up with my two very active grandsons.

-Robin

In early 2018, I was at a point in my life when I decided to start lifting more. After doing a little research, I came across Les Mills and a program called Bodypump. I watched a few classes on YouTube and decided to try it out. I researched where there might be classes near me and found the Carbon Valley Recreation Center offered them. My very first class was a Monday night at 6:30. I walked in super excited and walked out thinking what did I just do to my body?

The following week I decided to try out Suzi's class at noon on Thursday. At the time I was doing relief work at a vet clinic in Boulder and got hired on full-time and my boss specifically asked me if there was a particular day off in the week I wanted on my schedule. I said Thursdays so I can do Bodypump. I have been a regular attendee on Thursdays at noon ever since.

This class is exactly what I need to keep me motivated, even on the days when I don't feel like doing it, I'm always happy I came to class. It might only be once a week, but I honestly don't know what I would do without this class.

Christy Fox

I have been a regular at the recreation center for over ten years, but in the past year, these walls have become a true second home.

As I’ve navigated the changes of my menopausal years, I’ve found that a diverse fitness routine is my greatest tool for staying strong and balanced.

My week is all about variety—alternating between high-energy Step classes and Barbell Strength classes, now with a splash of Body Pump heavy. I love the rhythm of switching between intense cardio and strength training; it keeps the journey exciting and challenges my body in different ways.

What truly keeps me coming back, however, are the incredible friends I’ve made along the way. We’ve become a vital support system, motivating each other to show up even on the days when energy is low. That accountability, combined with a focus on good sleep and nutrition, has made all the difference.

I’m so grateful for the balance and the community this center provides—it’s a vital piece of my health journey!

Jill Smith

After retiring at the age of 70, I knew I did not want to sit around the house. That is when I joined SilverSneakers! It was a very good decision and I was so happy I made it.

Not only have I met some great friends but also get to experience exceptional instructors. Looking back to when I started SilverSneakers, I am so much stronger and have better balance as I can stand on one foot without the fear of falling.

SilverSneakers has improved my everyday activities and improved my functional movement to where I feel safer. I am strong enough to start skiing again. Anyone interested?

I have been going to the Carbon Valley Rec center since 2021 and since then I have tried out many different group fitness classes as well as personal training. The latest Body Pump Heavy class has been a great addition! I am so thankful we have the variety of classes to choose from especially since my work schedule can change. I am grateful to have worked with Sheri during personal training who taught me how to use the weight and machine room properly and pushed me to do more than I thought I could. I enjoy the camaraderie with the staff and other fitness patrons. There are days they make it possible for me to workout AND get to my work meetings on time. As I age, I have fully embraced the importance  fitness has in my life! I love that I can lift more than I have before and feel myself getting stronger as I go! I feel the joy that comes when I attend Zumba as well as the peace that comes when I finish yoga! These classes are my lifeline for both mental and physical health!

Thank you CVRC staff and instructors for all you do! I know you put your time, talent, heart and soul into teaching and making the rec center a great place to be! 

My journey with CVPRD began in the most unexpected way, but it has truly become one of the best decisions of my life. After my cousin got out of rehab and committed to building a healthier lifestyle, our family came together to support him—and I was incredibly grateful to be part of that. We started going to the gym together last June, and what began as support quickly turned into something much more meaningful for all of us. It became a daily routine, a way to start our mornings with purpose, connection, and positivity.

When my schedule changed and I began attending in the mornings, I never imagined how much that shift would impact me. I met some of the most genuine, encouraging people, and the sense of community at CVRPD is unlike anything I’ve experienced before. From day one, I’ve felt supported, never judged, and always comfortable stepping outside my comfort zone because I know everyone there truly has my back.

The staff makes it even more special. They are consistently welcoming, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in everyone who walks through the doors. They take the time to guide, encourage, and make sure you understand all the options available to help you reach your goals.

It has become my second home, a place where I feel supported, motivated, and inspired. I’m so grateful for the journey that brought me here, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.

FITNESS PATRONS OF THE MONTH: This month, we are highlighting the 9 winners of our December 12 Days of Fitness Challenge! In order to win, participants had to complete 12 Group Fitness classes in 12 consecutive Days! And the winners are:

• Karen Caravas 12 Classes
• Julia Cartellone 13 Classes
• Jen Fulk 13 Classes
• Allison Gerrish 13 Classes
• Trish Gandy 14 Classes
• Wanda Caddell 15 Classes
• Jessie Craft 15 Classes
• Marion Harris 15 Classes
• Carol Van Sambeck 15 Classes