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Fitness and Fun: A Couple’s Wellness Journey at John Knox Village

Staying Active Together: Marsha and Bruce’s Story

Having lived an active lifestyle in their first retirement in Estes Park, Colorado, when Marsha Yelick and Bruce Nickels moved to John Knox Village, a senior living community in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, more than four years ago, they wanted to be able to continue.

“We moved here and just a few months later, Covid hit, so we were set back a bit, but really, we wanted the opportunity to stay active,” Marsha said. “And here we’ve been able to do that. We both began by establishing a consistent fitness routine, such as taking group classes, and really enjoyed it. But now, we like the flexibility of going to the fitness center when it works in our schedule and to use the great machines and what we call ‘toys’.”

The toys Marsha speaks of are the free weights, resistance band, balls and other equipment that they like to incorporate into their workouts. They go to the fitness center twice a week and enjoy walking several times a week. Marsha also enjoys attending yoga classes.

The Importance of Exercise in Retirement

“We just feel so much better when we’ve worked out. It’s so important as we age to keep active, and our bodies moving, especially doing stretches and weight exercises,” Marsha said. “We just love gardening and so for us, we stay active so we can keep doing the hobbies we love.”

Couple Encourages Each Other To Exercise

Bruce said they are a great team and really help motivate and encourage each other. He said they’ve kept track of their balance through the VirtueSense Balance screenings at the fitness center and have seen their balance remain constant, if not improve, over the past two years. He attributes that to the fact they’ve remained so active and continue to exercise.

More Than Just Exercise: A Vibrant Senior Living Community

Ready to write your own story of fitness and fun? John Knox Village offers everything you need to stay active and engaged in retirement.

Discover the John Knox Village Difference

We invite you to experience the vibrant, healthy lifestyle that John Knox Village offers.

John Knox Village is a leader in senior care in Lee’s Summit and the greater Kansas City community. The community boasts a diverse range of living options from free-standing homes and apartment homes to cottages and villas. With more than 700,000 square feet of common space across the beautiful campus, you’ll find more opportunities and experiences right outside your door.

For more information about our senior living options or to schedule a visit, contact us, or call (816) 261-8000.