Whoever doesn’t think fitness can be fun has not dealt with Gina O’Leary.
The Fitness Supervisor at Oak Trace senior living community in Downers Grove is all about fun, laughter, socialization and, above all, fitness…regardless of age, ability, experience or interest. “We have something for everyone, and if there’s an activity that we don’t already offer that the residents are interested in introducing, like the electric slide, for instance, I’ll make it happen,” she said. Sometimes in a big way. Gina’s electric slide efforts drew 10,000 views on YouTube.
Gina, who started teaching exercise classes at Oak Trace several years ago, is enthusiastically growing the fitness program now that the senior living community’s $112 million multi-phase renovation and expansion is complete. One of the outcomes of the project is the new, state-of-the-art fitness center. “I was able to help pick out some of the new equipment,” Gina said, adding that it’s very high-tech yet user-friendly. “We have HUR machines. The residents are able to use a program utilizing a fob. When they scan it, the exercise machine welcomes them and goes directly to the settings they used last time. It helps them do sets of circuit training, “ she said. The treadmills in the fitness center display simulated pathways in exotic locales. “Residents on adjoining treadmills may be walking next to each other ‘through Barcelona.’ They’ll be enjoying the ‘scenery’ and chit-chatting with each other. It generates contagious energy and keeps them walking further without feeling like they’re working so hard.”
Oak Trace also boasts a beautiful new indoor heated pool, which is used for laps and free swimming, as well as classes including aqua motion, water aerobics, and more. ”We’ve never had a pool before, and people are excited. I’ve helped some pick out swimming attire online. It’s so easily available, there are no excuses,” Gina said. “Classes are growing every day, and there are lots of people coming to observe before they decide to ‘get their feet wet.’”
Some of the residents moving in more recently have requested Zumba and step classes, and individuals with neurological challenges have access to neuro-move classes. Several walking programs have been introduced at different paces to take advantage of the beautiful enhanced outdoor nature paths, walkways and landscaping. The variety of courses and equipment are accessible for all ages. “One of our most active fitness buffs is 102,” Gina said.
Gina has recently hired Lisa Humbert, a personal trainer. “She’s a great addition to our fitness programming and works one-on-one with residents as often as they’re interested,” she said. “We’re working to make the fitness offerings as similar to an outside health club as possible with the same types of amenities and the same options. Residents with outside gym memberships can cancel theirs.” All equipment and the pool are open and welcome for the Oak Trace team members.
Gina said that because she offers something for all ability levels, she consequently gets to witness their progress. “No one needs to feel like what they’re doing is too easy or too hard. We offer something for them where they’re at and then watch them get stronger and more fit. I have the best job in the world!”
