New classes at local senior centers blend drumming and fitness

Bright green drumsticks in hand, Vickie Hohauser, 70, was all smiles during a recent workout session at the Rochester Older Persons’ Commission.

As upbeat music played, Hohauser "drummed" in the air and on an exercise mat through a 45-minute Pound Fit session, all while working just about every part of her body, including her heart.

"This just energizes you. It's fun and I don't feel like this is an effort," the Rochester Hills resident said. "I just feel like I’m having fun and I’m happy when I’m here."

Instructor Candace Hayden of Auburn Hills leads weekly sessions of Pound Fit at the OPC and at the Auburn Hills Community Center. Each 45-minute-class includes a warmup followed by a series of choreographed songs where drummers hold weighted sticks called Ripstix to pound on the floor and in the air.

The Pound Fit movements incorporate strength training, cardio conditioning and fat burning sequences. In addition, there are some yoga and pilates-inspired movements. According to the Pound Fit website, participants will have completed up to 1,000 reps over 30 extended interval peaks. While most of the class takes place standing, there are instances in which students sit and even lay down on the floor.

Hayden cues her class on what to do during each song, with most of the moves matching the song beat. During the workout, the class creates a rhythmic and unison "clicking" sound that echoes throughout the room and matches the beat of the song.

"I think Pound Fit is perfect for our older bodies because you do not have to be super coordinated," Hayden said. "Most of the class is stationary, so as long as you can follow the beat, you can benefit from the static movement and not have to worry about moving your lower and upper body simultaneously."

A similar class is offered at the Clinton Township Senior Center weekly, although during this class, called simply Drum Strength and Conditions, participants use exercise balls as drums. Like Pound, they also utilize weighted drumsticks and choreography.

"We use drumsticks and a big yoga ball. They pound on a yoga ball to different rhythms, and at the same time, they move their legs and arms to get their heart rate up," said Dan Ulmer, sports and fitness coordinator at the Clinton Township Senior Center. "Anyone can jump in and enjoy, even if you’re not in rhythm. You are still having fun hitting the ball, enjoying the music and camaraderie."

Cynthia Du, 59, of Rochester Hills, enjoys taking Pound Fit in the evening at the OPC after working in the office. She said the workout is a good way to release stress. She and Hohauser said they both felt energized and as if they had fun during the Pound class. "I will definitely do this again," she said.

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