At The Salvation Army in Moose Jaw, Sask., a weekly fitness program is inspiring participants to live healthy active lifestyles, while providing an uplifting atmosphere for fun and socialization. Grace in Action, which launched in 2018 with a walking program, has now shifted into a unique cardio drumming group.

Cardio drumming is an energetic, low-impact form of physical activity that uses exercise balls, resting on top of a stand, and wooden drumsticks to get the body moving. Every Thursday, a group of more than 10 people gather at the church for Grace in Action, beginning with 15 minutes of video-led exercise, followed by a break for conversation and fellowship, and ending with another 15-minute drum session.

Since its inception, Grace in Action has become a great way for people, especially seniors, to stay active and interact socially. “It’s very uplifting. It’s a positive atmosphere—everyone’s happy and enjoying themselves,” says Sherry Howell, who leads the program. “It started out as just getting people moving and then became a way for us to get together on a weekly basis.”

“I like the fact that we exercise our whole bodies, and it is good for our health,” says Karen Lizee, who heard about the program through the church and has been attending since it launched.

Grace in Action is also a unique form of outreach in Moose Jaw. “About a quarter of our participants come from the community, the rest from the church,” explains Howell. “One of the participants recently started coming to church and has come out to our corps breakfast.”

Peter Howell, Sherry’s husband, has been participating in Grace in Action since its start. “It has enriched me socially and physically,” he says. “I like talking with everyone who comes to the program and hearing about their day.”

Photo: Lieutenant Linda Kean

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