Monarch Landing Fitness Studio Offers Shared Space, Shared Bonds

Walk down “Main Street” of Monarch Landing retirement living community in Naperville, IL, and you’ll see them stretching, flexing, balancing, and moving together as the tight-knit group they are.  Since early fall, health-conscious Monarch Landing residents have enjoyed the bright, commodious space of a state-of-the-art group fitness studio centrally located along the community’s core hallway.  “It’s a dream come true,” said Monarch Landing fitness specialist Shannon Denny of the new accommodations.  “Group exercise is very personal, and residents are already experiencing the bonds that come with doing fitness together.”

Where machines and too many people used to crowd Monarch Landing’s fitness center (where group classes were formerly held), there is room in the 707-square-foot studio to spread out and step to the beat of a rich sound system, surrounded by wall-to-wall mirrors.  A 60” TV allows for viewing various fitness presentations and engaging in demonstrations.  “The new studio is tangible evidence of Monarch Landing’s commitment to our Health and Lifestyle Services program,” said Monarch Landing Wellness Manager Tony Galvan.  “It’s important to offer group fitness classes in a dedicated space.  All of our classes have transitioned there, and we’ve been able to add some new ones as well.”  Indeed, Monarch Landing’s fitness schedule is full all week with yoga, qi gong, strength and flexibility training, total body fitness programs, etc. of all levels. 

Resident Louise Florian is a fan of the qi gong class she takes on Monday afternoons.  “I appreciate the balance training.”  On Tuesdays and Thursdays, Louise takes a basic exercise class, and on Wednesdays and Fridays, she participates in a yoga class.  “I do something every day; I’m trying to avoid the pitfalls of the aging process,” said Louise, whose husband can often be found on the machines in the fitness center.  At the helm of most of Monarch Landing’s fitness and aquatics classes is Denny, who brings more than physical benefits to her 25-30 hours per week of instruction and personal training.  “Shannon is one in a million,” said Louise.  “She has such energy and enthusiasm, and she always shares the latest health and medical information with us.”

“My gift is motivating, encouraging and empowering people to believe they can be in charge of their health.  I genuinely care about seniors as individuals, and I challenge them to believe they can do more than they think they can,” said Denny.

In order to be the best she can for her students, Denny is a perennial student herself.  “I do my homework,” said the former exercise science major and lifelong competitive swimmer.  “I study every day from good sources to learn the latest treatments and trends that provide the greatest benefits.  Joining Denny is newly hired group fitness instructor, Dawn Schramer, who shares her passion for informed, caring, personalized fitness.  “With Dawn on board, we can offer even more classes and more one-on-one attention.”  And with a new fitness studio rounding out Monarch Landing’s fitness and aquatic centers, even more can seize the many opportunities to take charge of their own health and well-being. 

Monarch Landing is a senior living community on a scenic campus in Naperville, Illinois - named "one of America's best places to live and retire" by Modern Maturity. Monarch Landing is owned by Senior Care Development and managed by Life Care Services. For additional information, visit www.welcometomonarchlanding.com.