Fitness Manager Kathy Duke is Ready to Help You Reach Your Wellness Goals

Do you wish exercising was more fun? Then head over to the fitness center at Woodleigh Chase, the Erickson Senior Living community in Fairfax, Va., where you'll find state-of-the-art fitness equipment, a friendly environment that inspires and energizes, and Fitness Manager Kathy Duke, who is ready to partner with you on your wellness journey. 

"I love working with our residents," says Duke. "One of my goals is to ensure everyone feels welcome." 

The fitness center--open 24/7--boasts the latest technology designed specifically for seniors, including treadmills, ellipticals, NuStep recumbent cross trainers, seated rowing machines, strength training equipment, and stationary cycles.

Woodleigh Chase residents enjoy complimentary fitness center memberships, which include a fitness assessment and consultation, a personalized exercise program, and monthly monitoring of exercise progression. Personal training is available for a fee.

Whether you have a little or lots of experience navigating a fitness center, Duke will set you up for success. 

"We provide all residents with an orientation, where they can tour the facility, learn how to operate the machines, and discover the classes we offer," says Duke. 

For residents who prefer the water, a 25-meter, 76,300-gallon pool staffed by a full-time lifeguard is available for lap swimming and low-impact exercises. The aquatics center also offers opportunities for individual free swim, as well as group classes like aqua fitness, which meets twice a week. 

A healthy outlook

With over 30 years of experience in the fitness industry as a personal trainer and yoga instructor, Duke's passion for healthy living led her to Woodleigh Chase when the community opened in February.   

"I used to have my own business as a personal trainer in the Northern Virginia area, traveling from client to client," says Duke. "I was ready for a change."

Duke had family members who lived at Greenspring, the Erickson Senior Living community in Springfield, Va. When Duke discovered that Woodleigh Chase was being built so close to her home, she saw it as the perfect opportunity.

"I grew up in the neighborhood right behind Woodleigh Chase, and my husband and I graduated from Robinson High School," says Duke. "At the time, one of my clients was moving to Woodleigh Chase and connected me with the administration here. I applied for the fitness manager position and got the job."

Duke jumped right in, bringing lots of energy to Woodleigh Chase by hosting fitness activities and wellness events. So far, these have included a discussion on lifestyle and nutrition basics for healthy aging with Woodleigh Chase's medical doctor, Dr. Ke Sun; a pickleball tournament; and a Senior Olympics competition featuring cornhole, a one-mile fun run/walk, and water volleyball using an oversized beach ball.

"There are so many people who want to take advantage of everything we have to offer," says Duke. "And one of the great things about our fitness center is you don't have to drive there--you just walk down the hall or hop in the elevator."

Duke notes that cardio and strength training are essential components of a workout regimen. 

"Walking is great exercise!" notes Duke. "Here at Woodleigh Chase, you can walk inside or outside and get your steps in. The most important thing is to move every day."   

She continues, "Strength training is one of the best things we can do for our bodies as we age. It encourages a lot of other positive outcomes in the body. By moving your arms and legs through a full range of motion, you are helping increase your flexibility and mobility of your joints."

Of course, Duke cautions that you should always check with your doctor before you begin any exercise regimen to ensure you are healthy enough to participate. 

Rewarding work

As the community continues to grow, Duke welcomes all residents to stop by the fitness center, introduce themselves, and consider adding a fitness routine to their daily lives.

"When someone tells me how fitness has improved their life, it inspires me," says Duke. "Coming to work is so rewarding!"

To learn more about senior living at this vibrant community, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and so much more.