Hi, I’m Petra.

I teach Strength & Stretch classes to women 50+.

As we get older, our body loses core strength and some of its ability to move freely, making it more difficult to perform daily physical tasks and activities such as lifting, carrying, reaching overhead, bending over, etc., easily and safely. These physical changes can affect our quality of life and emotional wellbeing.

My Strength & Stretch classes are designed to address those negative effects through:

  • Strength exercises that focus on core and upper/lower body strength.

  • Full-body stretches, including hands and feet, to loosen up muscles and connective tissue, increase joint range of motion and improve overall mobility.

  • Addressing specific “pain points” like limited neck and spinal mobility, stiffness in hands and feet, tight muscles, weak abdominals, and many more.

  • Breathing and relaxation exercises to reduce stress, increase mindfulness and create a sense of empowerment.

 

Photo credit: Austin Neill on Unsplash

Here is what participants say about Strength & Stretch

“What I have learned, and continue to learn, from participating in Petra’s Strength & Stretch classes:

  • The importance of stretching those often-used muscles I ordinarily neglect.

  • The importance of strengthening those functional muscles that are essential for mobility as I get older.

  • To remember to spend time slowing down my body and quieting my mind.

  • To remember to be kind to myself and to extend that kindness to others.

I think Petra’s Strength & Stretch class should also include Serenity in its name!”

Joanie L.

“When I attend Petra’s Strength & Stretch classes I leave with a sense of wellbeing and energy. Petra encourages me to do more than I would do on my own, but never pushes me to do more than I should. My balance and mobility have improved since I started her classes, which is so important as we age.”

Janie T.

“Petra coaches the class through each movement while paying attention to each student’s skill level, which allows for a highly individualized experience. It doesn’t matter if you are an experienced participant of a beginner, you will leave the class feeling relaxed and energized.”

Margaret L.

“I’ve been in Petra’s Strength + Stretch classes for women over 50 for over a year and have noticed big improvements in my flexibility and balance that has benefitted me in many ways. I can do more around the house and feel more confident in outdoor activities like hiking. I really enjoy the variety of exercises that Petra shares, but my favorite thing is the guided imagery meditation at the end of each class. I leave feeling refreshed and ready to go!”

Cathy F.

For more testimonials, please visit the Home page.

My qualifications:

I have been a fitness professional for 30 years, and have taught a wide range of group exercise classes, including designing classes for older participants to address their specific needs.

Here’s what makes me an expert:

  • Certifications in personal training, core, strength, Aerobic exercise, Pilates, Yoga, LiveStrong.

  • 30 years of experience in working with various demographics to achieve their specific fitness goals.

  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

  • A no-fuss teaching approach that meets participants where they are.