Staying Active, Staying Connected: Life at VMRC’s Fitness Center

At VMRC, wellness is about more than just physical health—it’s about feeling energized, staying connected and maintaining the freedom to do the things you love. For residents like Margaret Gardener and Carol Horton, the campus fitness offerings are more than just a perk, they’re part of what makes this community feel like home.

Margaret moved to VMRC from Erie, Pennsylvania, after searching for a senior living community that would meet her needs. “They were just able to meet all of my requirements, and the Wellness Center was just the absolute plus factor,” she shares. The fitness facilities, supportive atmosphere, and emphasis on healthy living gave her confidence that this was the right place to start her next chapter.

Carol, who relocated from Delaware, quickly immersed herself in the community, both socially and physically. A regular in the fitness classes, she has built a weekly routine around staying active. “I go to two classes a week. In the morning I do chair yoga, and in the afternoon I go to ‘Seniors in Motion,’” she says. “The instructors are extremely good.” These classes help her maintain strength and flexibility, while also offering a chance to connect with others—both fellow residents and members of the broader community.

The Wellness Center stands out not only for its quality programming but also for the inclusive environment it fosters. Instructors are knowledgeable, approachable and focused on helping each individual meet their personal goals. Whether someone is looking to build stamina, maintain mobility, or simply stay energized throughout the day, there’s a class, and a community, ready to support them.

At VMRC, fitness is more than exercise; it’s an opportunity to stay active, engaged and independent. From group classes to casual social moments, the wellness experience reflects the heart of VMRC’s mission: to help residents live well and live fully.

Pictured here, the Wellness Center Observed National Senior Health and Fitness Day on May 28th by accommodating a large group of residents in its Strite Auditorium. Join us in celebrating the Wellness Center’s 25 anniversary this June!