Master Gardener Increases Her “Fun”ctional Fitness in Deep Water Exercise Class

Susan got herself in deep water a year and a half ago! The Cooperative Extension trained Master Gardener joined the 8 a.m. Deep Water Exercise class.

Susan attributed the increased strength, flexibility and endurance she experienced as she worked in her beautiful woodland garden this spring to her “Y-Time.” The 8 a.m. class built a fun camaraderie that encouraged her and the other participants to push harder during each set. Time passed so quickly it often surprised Susan.

Susan is grateful for all she gained at the YMCA of Broome County. She wanted to give back by offering some safety tips for the upcoming garden season:

• Stretch before starting your work
• Wear long pants and long sleeve shirts, as well as boots and garden gloves to protect against tics, the sun, blisters, thorns and other hazards.
• Wide brim hats, baseball caps or visors offers protection from the sun…especially the eyes.
• Wear sunglasses with a UV rating of 99% or higher
• Stay hydrated. Water is the best choice.
• Wear knee pads or kneel on a portable garden knee pad.
• Do a thorough tic check after leaving the garden. Carefully remove any tics.https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/removing_a_tick.html
• Take a nice warm bath or shower to soothe achy muscles

Happy Gardening!