When Juliana Spooner first arrived in Saanich 27 years ago, the young mom knew no one.
What she soon discovered, however, was the community that awaited just a few blocks away at Cedar Hill Recreation Centre.
Today, she still cherishes friendships made at kindergym and at her next discovery: Pam Glover’s drop-in aerobics class. With her Access Pass in hand, Spooner has attended the Wednesday and Saturday classes on and off for more than two decades, appreciating the flexibility the drop-in sessions afford and Glover’s infectious enthusiasm. “I said, ‘Oh my gosh, I have found exactly what I’m looking for!’ It was my chance to do something just for me, but be part of a group.”
And Glover? She’s marking 30 years sharing the joy of community and fitness.
“I’m always learning,” Glover says. “And I do believe exercise is a huge part of healthy living and longevity.”
Accessibility, and the ability to adapt programs to suit various fitness levels are keys to the class’s success.
“Everyone is at a different level and works at that level,” she says. “At the end of each class, I always ask for feedback or if anyone has any questions, or anything they’d like to chat about,” Glover says. “And I listen to them.”
30 years = better than ever
After 30 years, the workouts really do keep getting better, with ever-changing music and new footwork that keeps the choreography fresh. Her own ongoing education also keeps her learning – and sharing.
She recalls one client who took to heart a discussion about engaging core muscles. “Months later she came back and said, ‘Now I do it without even thinking about it – anywhere I go I’m engaging my core.’”
When not at the helm of her Wednesday/Saturday sessions, you’ll find Glover leading several other classes each week. “Saanich really does offer a lot of variety,”she reflects.
“I really do find joy when I reach out to people and it seems to bounce around the room and come back to me. The more I give, the more rewarded I feel.”
While participants drop in as part of their fitness routine, it becomes so much more. “There’s a real social aspect to it, and we see our participants reach out to each other outside class.”
Returning to class four years ago after a time away, “it was like coming home, I was so happy,” Spooner says. “To work out with so much encouragement, it offers everything a community should, and Pam is the reason for that.”
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Your Saanich Access Pass offers 31 different drop-in activities weekly at four centres, including fitness, sports, swims and skates. With passes for every budget, including a monthly payment plan for some passes, buy your pass online or at any Saanich recreation centre. Learn more at saanich.ca/recreation