In a world of high-calorie fast food and sedentary television watchers, it is difficult to believe that a healthier lifestyle can be adopted. Yet, hundreds of people in Martinsville and Henry County are doing just that. Through the many aerobics programs offered by the Martinsville-Henry County Coalition for Health and Wellness with funding from the Harvest Foundation, pounds are disappearing, stress is decreasing, and spirits are being lifted in the community. “I have had an increase in weight loss, and overall I have more energy and am feeling really good about myself,” states Angie Burks, an attendee of the general aerobics classes, which include sculpting classes, cardio classes, and yoga. Average weekly attendance for classes is approximately 350 people with classes available six days a week.

Last week, in honor of National Women’s Health Week, the MHC Coalition for Health and Wellness put on a Jam Session: a two hour workout that combined the efforts of all the aerobics classes offered. Attendance hit an astounding 100 people. Becky Belcher confirmed, “It revives me after a hard day at work, helps me to relieve tension, tone my muscles, and lose weight.” These stories of success are seen in almost every individual who regularly attends the Coalition’s aerobics classes.

 The real gem of the program is found in its fee: all classes and equipment are free. The Coalition’s main goal is to make an active lifestyle accessible for the community of Martinsville-Henry County. Dee Underwood emphatically declares: “I’m so glad y’all put this on for us; it’s a real blessing. I know if it weren’t a free thing with equipment provided I wouldn’t be able to come!” The classes are held at three different operational sites, Fieldale Community Center, Bassett Community Center, and Spencer Penn Center, located throughout the area for convenience, and two new sites are currently being developed.