Health & Wellness- | Page 2

MONTICELLO TIMES THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2026 | 17

Health & Wellness

move through a mix of exercises designed to support long-term health.

One of Finnell’ s newer offerings,“ Better Bones and Balance,” focuses specifically on strength training and stability— two factors that become increasingly important with age.

Research has shown that strength training can help people maintain or even improve bone density, reducing the risk of fractures and other injuries.

“ If you do weight training in the correct ways for your age, you can maintain your bone mass,” Finnell said.“ That helps avoid falls and hip problems.”

Some participants say the classes have made a measurable difference in their health.

Theresa Martin Bourgeois, who has attended Finnell’ s classes for years, said weight training has helped improve her bone density after being diagnosed with osteopenia.

“ Donna always pushes you to do better,” Bourgeois said.“ Weight training is a must for me, and Donna helps me continue to achieve my best.”

Finnell said the most rewarding part of teaching is seeing people grow stronger and more

confident over time. Sometimes that progress is small but meaningful.

She recently watched one client who had previously needed to remain seated during a chair yoga class gradually build enough strength to stand for the entire session. Another student recovering from a stroke continues working to regain mobility with continued exercise.

Often, Finnell said, the encouragement starts coming from other class members.

“ They start saying it to each other,” she said.“ You’ re getting stronger. You should keep coming.”

Monticello Recreation Manager Sara Cahill said Finnell’ s enthusiasm and dedication have helped shape the community center’ s fitness programs.

“ Donna offers endless encouragement,” Cahill said.“ She makes exercise fun and keeps people motivated. Donna is relatable and personable. She adds humor and enthusiasm to every class she teaches.”

Finnell’ s water aerobics classes became so popular that additional sessions were added, along with specialized offerings such as water therapy and water circuit

LAUREN FLAUM / MONTICELLO TIMES

Donna Finnell leads a water fitness class at the Monticello Community Center pool. Finnell has been teaching fitness classes there since 2003, helping members build strength, improve balance and stay active.

training.

Cahill said Finnell also created the Better Bones and Balance class to help older participants build bone density and improve stability.

“ She went above and beyond this year, tirelessly encouraging participation and attendance with more classes, programs and outreach,” Cahill said.“ She builds a connection with people

and makes them feel important and empowered.”

Beyond leading classes, Finnell also contributes to community events and programs. In addition to organizing the popular Bubble and Foam Party at Pioneer Park last summer, she has helped with the Father-Daughter Dance, Glow Fest and other recreational activities.

Still, Finnell said her greatest satisfaction comes from helping people feel healthier, stronger and more connected to their community.

“ They’ re happier when they come and exercise,” she said.“ You’ ve got to get out of your house.”

And week after week, participants keep returning— building strength, confidence and friendships along the way.

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