Montco Penn State Extension To Offer 'StrongWomen' Program

From Montco's Penn State Cooperative Extension Office:

Penn State Cooperative Extension will offer the research-based “StrongWomen” program at sites in the East Greenville, Lansdale and Collegeville/Skippack areas this fall.  

The weight-bearing exercise program is open to men and women but was developed to prevent bone loss and strengthen bones in post-menopausal women, according to Nancy Stevens, PSU extension educator.

“The program was developed at Tufts University and was based on research that found that as women start to lose estrogen around age 40, they are at increased risk for osteoporosis," she said. "Results have been remarkable"

Participants in the exercise program show increased strength, muscle mass and bone density, Stevens said.

Women in the program also see an improvement in their balance, which is important in preventing falls.

Strength training also improves arthritis symptoms, metabolic rate, mood, attitude and decreases depression, she said.

Day and evening classes are available and all classes last one hour.

The first fall classes are scheduled to begin Sept. 12.

Weights will be provided for participants.

To learn more or register, call the Montgomery County PSU Extension Office at 610-489-4315 or visit http://extension.psu.edu/montgomery/events/strongwomen-classes.

Penn State is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity and workforce diversity.