GREENSBORO, N.C. — Former bowler Joyce Grimsley is hitting strikes for a different reason these days.
The 86-year-old marked 18 years attending the Active Adults' Fitness class at Smith Active Adult Center and she says it's all thanks to her instructor.
"Bishop is the best. If it wasn't for him, I probably wouldn't even come as much as I do. He started in the class with me and then he became an instructor," said Joyce Grimsley.
From student to teacher Bishop Clarence Wall has grown a fitness following!
"I have been doing it for seven years and when I first started this class, it was about 25 people and since I have been teaching it has grown to 90 people," said Wall.
He says his wellness journey began over twenty years ago after undergoing dozens of surgeries.
"I have had two cataract surgeries I had open heart surgery in 1999 and I have had two hip replacements. I use to come in here even with my hip replacement with a walker. The doctor told me whatever you are doing keep doing it. I went from 245 pounds down to 220.
The 78-year-old minister at Greater Hope Cathedral wants to spread a message—the benefit to being fit has not age limit.
Experts agree.
"Exercise helps to reduce a lot of chronic disease states such as hypertension management, you can lower your blood pressure with exercise. cholesterol numbers also can help be reduced with exercise," said Dr. Sakeitha Crowder, a Novant Health Internal Medicine and Geriatrician.
Dr. Crowder recommends at least 30 minutes of exercise five times a week.
A goal that's easier when you have a strong community around you, some good music, and lots of fun!
"I always say I don't know what you are going through when you get here but for 45 minutes you're going to have some fun," said Wall.
To learn about Bishop Wall's Adding Health to Our Years class, click or tap HERE.