The MSU Extension Strong People Strength Training Program is based on the StrongWomen™ Program created by Drs. Miriam Nelson and Rebecca Seguin both formerly of the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University.

Dr. Nelson (Hampshire College) https://nutrition.tufts.edu/profile/faculty/miriam-nelson is the author of the research-based Strong Women book series, and Dr. Seguin (Texas A&M)https://agriliferesearch.tamu.edu/contact/ is national program director for StrongWomen (StrongPeople in Montana). Read more about the history of this program, as well as how it has been implemented via Extension networks across the U.S.

 

View the interview with Jane Wolery and Michelle Grocke on Yellowstone Public Radio here: 

https://www.mtpr.org/post/low-cost-classes-can-help-montana-seniors-stay-fit

Details of the MSU Extension Strong People Strength Training Program:

  • What: A 12-week strength training class designed for older adults (both men and women) who want to stay fit, strong and healthy. The class meets twice per week for 1 hour.
  • Where: Numerous counties across Montana hold Strong People classes. Please contact your local MSU Extension county office for more information.
  • Cost: Cost for the classes depends on the instructor, though range between $0 - $25.
  • Experience: No experience necessary; however, participants are asked to fill out a health questionnaire prior to enrollment and may have to acquire physician consent.

View the Strong People Program 2019 Summary Report

MSU Extension Strong People Strength Training program locations and information
County Days of the Week Times Location Course Contact How to Register for the Class or Get More Information
Big Horn Mon/Thur 8:30  am Contact Judy for Location Judy Nelson Email judyrx.jn@gmail.com
Choteau Tue/Thur 8:30 am Choteau Baptist Church (near the school) Jane Wolery Classes are Free.  Call 406-466-2492, Text 406-590-2492 or email Jane.wolery@montana.edu
Choteau Tue/Thur 9:45 am Choteau Baptist Church (near the school) Jane Wolery Classes are Free.  Call 406-466-2492, Text 406-590-2492 or email Jane.wolery@montana.edu
Richland TBD TBD TBD Carrie Krug Call or come to the MSU Extension office for more Information
Sanders Mon/Thur 3 pm Clark Fork Valley Hospital Janie Hom Classes are $10 for the series; visit the Clark Fork Valley Hospital website for more information or call Janie at 406-826-4669
Sanders Mon/Thur 4:30 pm Clark Fork Valley Hospital Janie Hom Classes are $10 for the series; visit the Clark Fork Valley Hospital website for more information Janie at 406-826-4669
Sanders Mon/Wed 8 am
10 am
6 pm 		Black Bear Ballroom Juli Thurston Call or come to the MSU Extension office for more Information
Sanders Mon/Wed Temporarily Cancelled Thompson Falls Community Center Cathy Mills We'll get this class resumed as soon as possible.
Call or come to the MSU Extension office for more information
Valley Mon/Wed 12 pm   Roubie Younkin Call or come to the MSU Extension office for more Information
Valley Tue/Thur 6 pm   Roubie Younkin Call or come to the MSU Extension office for more Information
Valley Mon/Wed 6 pm   Roubie Younkin Call or come to the MSU Extension office for more Information
Yellowstone Tues/Fri 9 am Shepherd Community Center- 529 Haynes Rd. Jackie Rumph Call 406-256-2828 or email Jackie Rumph of the MSU Extension office- Yellowstone County

These classes are on-going but may be changed or cancelled due to COVID-19.  Please contact the MSU Extension agent listed above for questions or to confirm class times.  No class in your area?  Please contact your local MSU Extension county office to see what options are available.   Contact MSU Extension Health and Wellness to request a class.  406-994-6969 or lorelyn.mayr@montana.edu.

 

What are the benefits of strength training?

The benefits of strength training have been studied extensively and include:

  • Increased muscle mass and strength
  • Improved bone density and reduced risk for osteoporosis and related fractures
  • Reduced risk of diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, depression, and obesity
  • Improved self-confidence, sleep and vitality

More research publications on the benefits of strength training, particularly for older adults can be found on this Google Scholar page