Courtesy photo Stacie Nielsen, senior center Director Annie Hepburn, Cristi Johnson, Punky Simpson, and Andrew Kottra pose for a photo after announcing May's Spring into Movement program at the senior center.

ALPENA — A new partnership is helping local older adults stay active, strong and connected as SkellaFit Personal Training officially takes over the exercise programming at the Alpena Senior Citizen’s Center.

Beginning this May, SkellaFit will lead a structured weekly fitness schedule designed specifically for adults ages 60 and older. The program is offered free of charge or by donation to participants, and centers on improving strength, balance and core stability — key components for maintaining independence and reducing fall risk.

The theme for May, “Spring into Movement,” encourages seniors to re-engage with physical activity as the weather warms and community programming expands.

Functional Strength and Balance classes will be held Mondays and Fridays, while Chair Yoga sessions are scheduled each Wednesday. Classes will be led by certified instructors Stacie Nielsen, Punky Simpson, Andrew Kottra and SkellaFit owner Cristi Johnson.

“One of our goals as a team was to get more adults over the age of 60 moving in 2026,” said Johnson. “Being able to work with so many fun people at the Senior Citizen’s Center is absolutely a dream realized.”

The initiative reflects a growing focus nationwide on functional fitness for older adults, emphasizing mobility, posture, balance and strength rather than high-intensity workouts. SkellaFit coaches say the program is designed to meet participants at their current ability level while building confidence through safe, guided exercise.

In addition to its work at the Senior Citizen’s Center, SkellaFit continues to expand community wellness offerings throughout Alpena. The studio provides a free weekly exercise program for individuals living with Parkinson’s Disease and their caregivers every Thursday at 11 a.m. at Alpena First United Methodist Church on Ripley Boulevard at First Ave.

SkellaFit also offers private and semi-private Strength at Any Age training for adults 55 and older, alongside a variety of small-group fitness and personal training programs aimed at helping community members stay active throughout every stage of life.

Organizers hope the new partnership will not only improve physical health outcomes but also strengthen social connections among local seniors.”I am looking forward to the partnership with the trainers at Skellafit and to see where this opportunity takes us.” said Alpena Senior Citizen’s Center Director, Annie Hepburn

Community members interested in participating can contact the Alpena Senior Citizen’s Center for class schedules and registration information.