Exercising with a group always increases your chances of sticking with a fitness program.

The benefits gained through the socialization often equal the fitness benefits, says Sue Sheehan, about the classes she instructs at Bluffton Family Recreation.

“I share knowledge as a physical therapist and incorporate that knowledge into each fitness class,” Sheehan says.

Her classes adjust to meet most fitness levels and they include a variety of beneficial activities.  Among these are cardio, plyometrics, agility training, strengthening, flexibility, balance and coordination work.

“No two classes are ever the same as they focus your body to continually adjust to the varied demands placed on it,” she said. “The workouts are designed to be safe and to encompass every aspect of fitness.”

Sheehan shares her knowledge as a physical therapist to address joint and muscle concerns with the group and on an individual basis.

Her classes last 60 minutes and take place Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8:30 a.m. at BFR.

Monday and Wednesday classes are conducted in a cardio-workout form, working the heart within the aerobic range for 30-40 minutes.

On Fridays, classes switches pace to a yoga fitness workout and are conducted in a dark room with soft music.

“This class is a challenging strength and balance workout, but includes many excellent forms of safe stretches, efficient breathing techniques and relaxation exercises,” she said.

“We love new class members and any one is welcome to join at any time,” she said. “The first class is free and you are encouraged to find the class that best meets your fitness needs and personal preferences.”

About Susan Sheehan
Sheehan has been a group fitness instructor with Bluffton Family Recreation for the past 22 years. She is a physical therapist and has led group fitness classes for over 31 years.

She is also a yoga fit instructor and has led yoga classes for 20 years. She leads classes at BFR three mornings a week and serves as a substitute instructor for BFR’s SilverSneakers program.

In addition, she practices as a physical therapist, specializing in pediatrics and rehabilitation. She is an adjunct at Bluffton University, where she leads a yoga class for students. And, she serves as a guest lecturer in the doctorate physical therapy program at the University of Findlay.

About BFR
Bluffton Family Recreation, 215 Snider Road, Bluffton, offers fitness-related programs for youth and adults, sports training and leagues.

For more information on any BFR program call 419-358-4150 or visit the website at: www.bfronline.com.