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Sports Backers Blog

'Dance Your Way to Fitness' Program Off to Successful Start

By: Shihan Wijeyeratne


Since its launch on April 13th, the ‘Dance Your Way to Fitness Program’ in the Gilpin Court Community of the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority (RRHA) has enjoyed a successful first three weeks. The program is a partnership between RRHA, the YMCA of Greater Richmond, and Sports Backers, with support from the Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Foundation, and it aims to bring increased opportunities for physical fitness and an active lifestyle to residents of RRHA communities.

“The program has been even better than anticipated,” says Tricia Puryear, Vice President of Collaborations and Partnerships at the YMCA of Greater Richmond. “People of all ages, genders, and abilities have come out and participated in great numbers and great spirit – we’ve seen so much energy and engagement!”

‘Dance Your Way to Fitness’ is hosted at the Calhoun Center in Gilpin Court three times per week, and is scheduled to run through June 19th. Residents from all RRHA communities are welcome to attend, with initial registration bringing in over 80 signups. RRHA employees also participate in the classes, helping break down barriers and form a closer bond between residents and staff members.DanceFitness2

‘Dance Your Way to Fitness,’ as the name implies, is a dance-based fitness program that aims to offer an enjoyable way for residents of RRHA communities to get active and learn more about improving their physical health. During the first three weeks of the program, participants have already experienced Zumba, Tai Chi, the Jitterbug, and other forms of group exercise.

During the inaugural session on April 13th, the VCU School of Nursing offered free health screenings for all participants and will do the same at the last session on June 19th. “Our aim was for participants to use their initial health screenings to see what needs improvement and make positive lifestyle changes,” says Jacki Quinlan, Community Fitness Engagement Specialist at Sports Backers. “With the exercise they do during the program each week and the other changes they’re making to become more physically active, we’re hoping that they see significant progress by the end of the program.”

Although the inaugural ‘Dance Your Way to Fitness’ program is scheduled to conclude on June 19th, the initial success of the project has spurred talks of renewing the program for another session in the fall. “I plan to come to as many classes as my schedule allows,” said Vickie Johnson, RRHA resident. “This is great for community. People will be able to get out of the house and get some exercise!”

To learn more about the ‘Dance Your Way to Fitness’ program and other community fitness initiatives, visit www.activerva.org.

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