ROSEBURG, Oregon – During this challenging time, many people are missing physical exercise and social activity. Among those most vulnerable, it can be especially hard. Two long-time Community and Workforce instructors have taken the plunge to covert their courses to virtual delivery. Donna Robison-Bryan is one of them. She offers a Qigong class.

Qigong uses gentle, controlled movement in order to stretch and maintain flexibility. It is a great class for those 55 and up. Transmitted via Zoom to class participants from Wayne Crooch Hall, which is located on the main UCC campus, Robison-Bryan explains and demonstrates the moves as participants follow along.

With more than 24% of Douglas County’s population over the age of 60, the potential they are missing exercise and social connections is high, Robin Van Winkle, UCC’s Dean of Community Education Partnerships, said.

In addition to being grateful for the ability to stay fit at home, class participants have expressed appreciation for the social time they receive – which is worked into the class session.

Our instructors are intentionally including time after the class for everyone to visit with each other, Van Winkle said. Even though it’s new and challenging, we are committed to the interactive and hands-on nature of our classes.

Since some people find it hard to leave home in general, there have already been requests for the class to continue virtually once the stay-at-home restrictions have been lifted.

UCC is currently offering a variety of virtual classes to stay physically fit such as Get Moving, Get Fit, which focuses on strength training and overall fitness, and Zumba, which is a lively dance session set to music that is designed to get you on your feet and moving.

Multiple dates and times are available and registration is quick and easy. If you are looking for a way to stay physically fit and enjoy some social time in the comfort of your home, this is a great option.

Image (top): Donna Robison-Bryan addresses class participants demonstrating movements while they follows along.

About Umpqua Community College

Nestled in the beautiful North Umpqua River Valley, Umpqua Community College is the regional center for higher education in Douglas County, Oregon. UCC provides high quality college degree programs, workforce development, and community learning opportunities.

Contact

Susan Neeman
Personal Enrichment Coordinator
541-440-4655

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