The CIS Fitness Program includes an instructor-led, machine-based circuit training exercise program. The system is taught by staff who have received training in exercise physiology for older adults.  The 20-minute circuit targets cardio maintenance and has a social component in the circle-based system.  It is comparable to a smaller, less intense version of “Curves.”  Machines are set on light tension to give all participants full access.  Participants also have the option of instructor-led chair aerobics for one hour each morning.  There are hour-long Zumba dance classes 3 days a week.  CIS offers a mini-gym area with a treadmill, traditional U-gym, stationary bikes and stretching machine.   

Since this target group is often under-motivated and sedimentary, CIS will encourage participants to stay with the program. Exercise may be the only activity that enables them to retain or regain a reasonable quality of life.

Each exercise activity is designed to accomplish a wide variety of the participants' goals and will last approximately 20 to 30 minutes. It will focus on individuals with a decreased ability to walk, incontinence, and dementia, and wheelchair users or those using walkers.

The staff will be trained to work with older adults with arthritis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, depression, diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, osteoporosis, or stroke. CIS will employ strategies that will encourage new participants to enroll in the Fitness course and remain in the program by:

• Setting attainable goals from assessments
• Using a motivational vocabulary
• Instilling confidence and self-assurance to the participants
• Introducing exercise sessions into social occasions
• Receiving performance awards and other positive reinforcement