True enjoyment comes from activity of the mind and exercise of the body; the two are ever united. – Wilhelm von Humboldt
Exercise for seniors is even more important than for my younger friends. You can’t live in today’s world without getting the message; but do we listen? It seems some of us get it, and some of us just don’t.
Exercise makes a huge difference for me. I am happier, I have better balance, I am stronger and have greater mobility and flexibility from exercise. Plus it helps me manage my weight and lets me visit Dairy Queen every now and then.
It can be hard to find the right instructor for those of us with maturing bodies. That’s why the best choice for seniors is Suzi Rosen, the senior’s specialist at The Cornwell Center. Suzi, of Fit Forever Consultants, offers many classes for folks like me, and maybe you.
My wife found Suzi years ago, and still loves her. She tried to get me to join, but I was not so sure at first; maybe I just wasn’t ready for the ‘senior’ label.
But once I tried a few classes, I was hooked. My strength and balance improved and I found muscles my swimming, cycling and running were not reaching. Suzi has a way of creating challenging, engaging workouts for all fitness levels, modifying each series accordingly.
After all, she has been involved with fitness her whole life:
Suzi is in front of her twin bother, Steven. Her older sister, Barbara, and Suzi have the same eyes.
“I have always been an active outdoor girl. I was born in Rock Island, Illinois but grew up in Sarasota, Florida. I was a state ranked swimmer, then at Florida State I earned my undergrad degree in Physical Education and a masters in Leisure Studies. I was always on the go, there would be no office job for me.”
The highlight for Suzi in those younger years was her time as player, captain and coach of the four-time National Champion Florida State University Women’s Rugby Club.
“When I was 45, I earned my Masters in Physical Therapy. I tried working in a healthcare setting, but I quickly learned I preferred to work with healthy independent adults.
“My passion is working with seniors who want to stay – Fit Forever.”
Suzi is an outgoing person with a what-you-see-is-what-you-get attitude. Her style is perfect as she moves among her many students like their loving drill sergeant.
Most of all, Suzi cares. She knows names, and remembers them. Her students are her friends, her community. If someone is missing a few times, she will find out why. If a card would cheer them up, she passes one around for signatures and well wishes.
She has even been known to take her students to a doctor’s appointment or to the grocery if they are unable.
Then there are the jokes. Around the middle of each class I can count on Suzi to rummage around her pockets, or wherever, to locate a scrap of paper with today’s joke. They are always cute. Some I want to remember and tell my grandkids; with others, I decide to wait until they are older.
You won’t find Suzi on social media; she knows her seniors prefer email and that is what she provides, offering all of the latest fitness news for my generation from the best sources. She is like my own personal “clipping service” for everything healthy.
Suzi is one of the many people putting drops in the bucket of our lives. That’s Suzi and that’s Fit Forever.
If you have been thinking about doing something for yourself, give Suzi a try.
If nothing else, you will hear some great stories and meet some new friends.
Fit Forever – I like that sound. Suzi will help me stay at peak levels up to the end and that is better than a slow tapering down to – nothing.
Tell us about your exercise routine and how important that part of your life is to you. Do you like Yoga, or Boot Camp or do you have another way?
Do you know Suzi? What do you enjoy most about her classes?
Do you know her from Sharon United Methodist, Covenant Presbyterian or Myers Park United Methodist? She is everywhere.
As always, the conversation starts here.
“In the ordinary choices of every day we begin to change the direction of our lives.” – Eknath Easwaran
Epilogue
Sir Isaac was right, “…an item in motion, stays in motion.” As I age my motions will slow down – but any motion is good and slow-motion can be beautiful. Take a look, and be sure to stay for the popcorn:
Mary Lou –
Suzi is a person who has done much for our community; just like you. Thanks for introducing me to Yoga so many years ago and for your help with my practice today.
– Bruce
suzi rosen
9 years ago
Thanks Bruce this looks great… good pictures of the group! I will send out now. Thank you again for supporting my work!
Suzi –
I am happy you like the story. You made it fun for me to write. Your ministry has been very helpful to me and so many in our community. Thanks for all you do for us.
– Bruce
Kathy Price
9 years ago
I was referred to Suzi by my physical therapist after back surgery. She is all the things you say she is and more. I own a travel agency and lead tours and with Suzi’s help I have the strength and balance to continue doing something that I love. Now retirement is off the table for me.
Kathy –
Thanks for reading Choices Do Matter and for your comment. My wife, who as the story says, introduced me to Suzi, just had back surgery three weeks ago. I know she will be back strong soon, with Suzi’s help.
Suzi’s Masters in Physical Therapy make her the best choice for me, I am glad so many others understand the benefits of working with this level of professional.
– Bruce
Vivian Moose
9 years ago
You have to love Suzi and her classes or you would not stay with the hard work she “dishes out.” It is so great to walk into a group of folks your age (60- 90) and see the happy, smiling faces of individuals who are there working HARD to stay strong, healthy and lead quality lives. Suzi works us hard but makes us feel good about ourselves. Our reward is stronger, healthier bodies and of course the daily “shady jokes,” she reads to us! During our hour long classes Suzi not only instructs but exercises with us.. Our choice is… Read more »
Vivian –
Thanks for the comment. Yes, stronger and healthier bodies is the benefit, along with the wonderful friends. The ‘shady jokes’ add to the enjoyment. Suzi is amazing.
– Bruce
Moody
9 years ago
I Meet Suzi through Silver Sneaker program at Cornwell Center, Myers Park. (Charlotte NC). She is Great and she cares alot about her students. She has helped me with my weight and good eating. I was able to lose 23 lbs in 1 year, the healthy way, exercise and good clean eating habits. She is tough and I love it, but it’s your decision. I really love her and Forever Fitness.
I was blest several years ago to meet Suzi and her dog at the Wilmore Neighborhood Center in Charlotte. The regular emails we receive are helpful to inform us when a need exists for which we may provide assistance. That is good; helping us to reach outside our own challenging lives. Semper Fi Suzi! !
Neal –
Suzi has build a wonderful community. We are all better for her ministry.
– Bruce
Barbara Bankett
9 years ago
I’ve only been in Suzi’s class at Cornwell for 2 years, but really enjoy it! I formally exercised at another facility where I was pretty much on my own. I like the fact that Suzi does provide instruction on correct form, and tells how the exercise benefits the body, and corrects our form when necessary. She is a great encourager, and strong advocate of everyone keeping as healthy as possible with exercise. We do get a great workout in an hour and enjoy exercising with the many new friends we have met..Thanks for being our strong , knowledgable leader
Barbara –
I agree. I am often concerned when I see people doing things incorrectly in a gym; injury is so easy. Peer lead work-outs can be just as dangerous. Having Suzi, a Physical Therapist, leading the class with her hands-on instruction is the BEST. I know I am using the correct form and can then incorporate that form into my regular routine.
Thanks for your comment.
– Bruce
Mickey Sigmon
9 years ago
I have been in Suzi’s classes for 10 years. I attend twice a week at the Cornwell Center. I credit her for keeping me moving. I can get up from seated position without using my hands. I can lift 8 lb. weights. And I can even get up from the floor, sometimes with” grace and dignity”. Not too bad for someone 82 yrs old. Suzy is great!
Mickey –
Here’s to 10 more years and 10 after that. Thanks for the comment.
– Bruce
Pat Aldred
9 years ago
I started exercising with Suzi nine years ago at Myers Park Baptist and I also play tennis. Because of those two activities they made it possible to survive serious heart surgery a year and half ago. I was 80 years and had a mitral and aortic valve replaced, a ring put around a tricuspid valve, a bypass, and a shaving of the heart plus a pacemaker. The doctor said he would not have been able to all he did if I hadn’t been in great shape. Working with Suzi all those years helped me recover from the surgery and rehab… Read more »
Pat –
That is a wonderful story. What an inspiration. I am sure Suzi helped your tennis game as well. There is no question in my mind that regular exercise with Suzi has helped many in countless ways. Thanks for sharing your story.
– Bruce
I’ve been taking Suzi’s class for several years now and can’t say enough good about her. We are very very lucky to have her; she’s very special — both in her caring and her knowledge of the field. Thank you for recognizing this gem.
Mimi –
I agree and thanks for your comment. Suzi’s class is a true ministry to many of us.
– Bruce
Pat Franklin
9 years ago
Suzi is definitely all you said. She has me using muscles that would never get used if I was not in her class at Sharon United Methodist Church. I hate to miss a class!
Pat –
Thanks for your comment. Yes, finding new muscles, better balance and flexibility are all good choices that I am glad we are making.
– Bruce
Jane Torbet
9 years ago
I presently live about 3/4 mile from the Cornwell Center and have enjoyed walking to/from Suzi’s classes 4X/week for the past 4 years. We are preparing for a move to Sharon Towers probably in December. Getting to Suzi’s class is my BIG CONCERN. Presently I am aiming for attending 2X/week and will sorely miss the walk plus those extra classes with Suzi. Suzi offers a great way to enjoy staying fit and always keeps a keen eye out for participants who might be having problems with form or who find a routine uncomfortable. Where else can you exercise under the… Read more »
Jane –
Thank you for your thoughtful comments. I agree, few exercise classes enjoy the leadership of a Certified Physical Therapist. Suzi is the best choice. Maybe Sharon United Methodist would be an option on some days because of it’s location, just a thought.
– Bruce
My wife found Suzi years ago, and still loves her. She tried to get me to join, but I was not so sure at first; maybe I just wasn’t ready for the ‘senior’ label.
If you have been thinking about doing something for yourself, give Suzi a try.
Do you know Suzi? What do you enjoy most about her classes?
Thanks, Bruce–great article and great tribute to Suzi. I have known and appreciated her for many years!
Mary Lou –
Suzi is a person who has done much for our community; just like you. Thanks for introducing me to Yoga so many years ago and for your help with my practice today.
– Bruce
Thanks Bruce this looks great… good pictures of the group! I will send out now. Thank you again for supporting my work!
Suzi –
I am happy you like the story. You made it fun for me to write. Your ministry has been very helpful to me and so many in our community. Thanks for all you do for us.
– Bruce
I was referred to Suzi by my physical therapist after back surgery. She is all the things you say she is and more. I own a travel agency and lead tours and with Suzi’s help I have the strength and balance to continue doing something that I love. Now retirement is off the table for me.
Kathy –
Thanks for reading Choices Do Matter and for your comment. My wife, who as the story says, introduced me to Suzi, just had back surgery three weeks ago. I know she will be back strong soon, with Suzi’s help.
Suzi’s Masters in Physical Therapy make her the best choice for me, I am glad so many others understand the benefits of working with this level of professional.
– Bruce
You have to love Suzi and her classes or you would not stay with the hard work she “dishes out.” It is so great to walk into a group of folks your age (60- 90) and see the happy, smiling faces of individuals who are there working HARD to stay strong, healthy and lead quality lives. Suzi works us hard but makes us feel good about ourselves. Our reward is stronger, healthier bodies and of course the daily “shady jokes,” she reads to us! During our hour long classes Suzi not only instructs but exercises with us.. Our choice is… Read more »
Vivian –
Thanks for the comment. Yes, stronger and healthier bodies is the benefit, along with the wonderful friends. The ‘shady jokes’ add to the enjoyment. Suzi is amazing.
– Bruce
I Meet Suzi through Silver Sneaker program at Cornwell Center, Myers Park. (Charlotte NC). She is Great and she cares alot about her students. She has helped me with my weight and good eating. I was able to lose 23 lbs in 1 year, the healthy way, exercise and good clean eating habits. She is tough and I love it, but it’s your decision. I really love her and Forever Fitness.
Moody –
Thank you for your comment and congratulations on your accomplishments. Yes, life is better if you are Fit Forever.
Bruce –
I was blest several years ago to meet Suzi and her dog at the Wilmore Neighborhood Center in Charlotte. The regular emails we receive are helpful to inform us when a need exists for which we may provide assistance. That is good; helping us to reach outside our own challenging lives. Semper Fi Suzi! !
Neal –
Suzi has build a wonderful community. We are all better for her ministry.
– Bruce
I’ve only been in Suzi’s class at Cornwell for 2 years, but really enjoy it! I formally exercised at another facility where I was pretty much on my own. I like the fact that Suzi does provide instruction on correct form, and tells how the exercise benefits the body, and corrects our form when necessary. She is a great encourager, and strong advocate of everyone keeping as healthy as possible with exercise. We do get a great workout in an hour and enjoy exercising with the many new friends we have met..Thanks for being our strong , knowledgable leader
s
Barbara –
I agree. I am often concerned when I see people doing things incorrectly in a gym; injury is so easy. Peer lead work-outs can be just as dangerous. Having Suzi, a Physical Therapist, leading the class with her hands-on instruction is the BEST. I know I am using the correct form and can then incorporate that form into my regular routine.
Thanks for your comment.
– Bruce
I have been in Suzi’s classes for 10 years. I attend twice a week at the Cornwell Center. I credit her for keeping me moving. I can get up from seated position without using my hands. I can lift 8 lb. weights. And I can even get up from the floor, sometimes with” grace and dignity”. Not too bad for someone 82 yrs old. Suzy is great!
Mickey –
Here’s to 10 more years and 10 after that. Thanks for the comment.
– Bruce
I started exercising with Suzi nine years ago at Myers Park Baptist and I also play tennis. Because of those two activities they made it possible to survive serious heart surgery a year and half ago. I was 80 years and had a mitral and aortic valve replaced, a ring put around a tricuspid valve, a bypass, and a shaving of the heart plus a pacemaker. The doctor said he would not have been able to all he did if I hadn’t been in great shape. Working with Suzi all those years helped me recover from the surgery and rehab… Read more »
Pat –
That is a wonderful story. What an inspiration. I am sure Suzi helped your tennis game as well. There is no question in my mind that regular exercise with Suzi has helped many in countless ways. Thanks for sharing your story.
– Bruce
I’ve been taking Suzi’s class for several years now and can’t say enough good about her. We are very very lucky to have her; she’s very special — both in her caring and her knowledge of the field. Thank you for recognizing this gem.
Mimi –
I agree and thanks for your comment. Suzi’s class is a true ministry to many of us.
– Bruce
Suzi is definitely all you said. She has me using muscles that would never get used if I was not in her class at Sharon United Methodist Church. I hate to miss a class!
Pat –
Thanks for your comment. Yes, finding new muscles, better balance and flexibility are all good choices that I am glad we are making.
– Bruce
I presently live about 3/4 mile from the Cornwell Center and have enjoyed walking to/from Suzi’s classes 4X/week for the past 4 years. We are preparing for a move to Sharon Towers probably in December. Getting to Suzi’s class is my BIG CONCERN. Presently I am aiming for attending 2X/week and will sorely miss the walk plus those extra classes with Suzi. Suzi offers a great way to enjoy staying fit and always keeps a keen eye out for participants who might be having problems with form or who find a routine uncomfortable. Where else can you exercise under the… Read more »
Jane –
Thank you for your thoughtful comments. I agree, few exercise classes enjoy the leadership of a Certified Physical Therapist. Suzi is the best choice. Maybe Sharon United Methodist would be an option on some days because of it’s location, just a thought.
– Bruce