Blue Jays Flock to Local YMCA to Help Seniors Through Fitness Testing

Health and Wellness major Robert Shifrin, ‘20 KA, recently enjoyed a rare break from campus at the Senior Fitness Testing and Community Luncheon on Feb. 21 at the YMCA of Callaway County in Fulton. He says the hands-on opportunity helped him professionally in his goal of becoming an athletic trainer after graduation in May.

“It was a great experience working with the local seniors,” Shifrin says. “Being involved in the event was great preparation for my career.”

Shifrin is one of a handful of students from Dr. Therese Miller’s HES 405: Test and Measurement and HES 342: Exercise Prescription classes who helped with the event. Miller says the occasion allowed her students to showcase the skills they acquired through a semester of hard work. And as a bonus, the students and seniors entertained one another.

“At lunch, a couple of YMCA senior community members explained to the students how they got married for less than $100!” Miller says, laughing.

Jill Luebbert, Callaway County YMCA Exercise Instructor, says she enjoyed watching the Westminster students interact with the seniors. “I was impressed with their genuine willingness to assist us, and they were extremely helpful and knowledgeable,” she says.

Miller adds that the students demonstrated professionalism, offering thoughtful, encouraging advice to the seniors.

“They were a positive and supportive presence in the seniors’ day,” Miller reflects. “And the seniors were impressive and inspiring in the dedication to YMCA program activities.”

Westminster’s Exercise Science program prepares students for a variety of careers in both athletics and the healthcare industry. For more information on Westminster’s Exercise Science program, please visit our website here or email Therese.Miller@westminster-mo.edu.