RSVP Staff Report
ElderCircle RSVP is currently seeking additional volunteers (age 55 or older) to be trained as class leaders/assistants for the RSVP Bone Builders Osteoporosis Prevention and Reversal Exercise Program. The next RSVP Bone Builders training session will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 16 at Woodland Apartments.
Bone Builders is a free osteoporosis exercise and prevention program which relies upon weight training to protect against fractures caused by osteoporosis through increasing both muscular strength and bone density. Bone Builders is based on the fact that proper exercise stresses bones and stimulated by the stress, bone density increases. The primary goal of Bone Builders is to empower older men and women to reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Through proper exercise and nutrition, they will maintain their independence and quality of life. Committed participants can increase bone density and muscle strength, lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of falling, improve balance, have more energy and mobility, and have the opportunity to socialize with other class participants.
Bone Builders classes are taught by trained RSVP volunteer leaders. In addition to leading stretches and weight bearing exercises, Bone Builder leaders educate participants about the importance of physical exercise, balance and weight/strength training, nutrition and healthy eating, personal safety, medical therapy, and lifestyle factors as they relate to osteoporosis. The ElderCircle RSVP Bone Builders program has been in operation since January 2009. As an RSVP Signature program, RSVP Bone Builder Leaders and Assistant Leaders must enroll in the RSVP program. RSVP enrollment can be done at the time of training.
Multiple Bone Builders leaders are needed for each class site to allow flexibility for vacations, illness, etc. Substitute leaders are also needed for each of our class sites. Free classes are currently taught in Koochiching County at the following locations and times, while expansion to other locations in Koochiching County is currently under consideration: KOOTASCA Senior Center, Northome, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:30 to 11 a.m.; and Woodland Apartments, International Falls, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Call 218-999-5441 by Monday to register for the training or to receive more information.
