The Be Fit exercise program at Bethlehem United Methodist Church in Clarksville, Tennessee, continues to flourish, offering participants a unique opportunity to improve their physical health while fostering a sense of community. With 23 regular attendees, the program accommodates various schedules, welcoming participants on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, or Tuesday and Thursday, with some dedicated individuals joining every day.
The program begins with 10 to 15 minutes of seated drumming, where participants use drumsticks on stability balls placed in clothes baskets. Accompanied by music spanning from the 1950s to today, the drumming sessions are lively and engaging, often incorporating song suggestions from participants. Following this, attendees engage in 30-35-minute exercise videos led by senior adult fitness professionals Curtis Adams or Deron Bubholtz.
Initially, the program faced challenges with its seating arrangements. The plastic folding chairs used for Sunday School and other church activities proved unsuitable for exercises requiring stability and proper posture. Their contoured, slick design caused participants to slide during movements and hindered exercises requiring a straight posture. However, thanks in part to a grant from the ENCORE Ministry Foundation, the church was able to purchase 20 new stacking chairs with slightly padded straight backs and seats, significantly enhancing the exercise experience.
The new chairs have been met with enthusiastic approval from participants. Susan Greer expressed her gratitude for the grant, noting that she can now “bicycle” in the chair comfortably. Martha King praised the chairs for their stability and comfort, while Jodie Rude shared her relief at no longer sliding around during exercises. Karon Zimmerman highlighted the practicality of the stacking chairs, which are easier to store when the Fellowship Hall needs to be prepared for other activities.
Valerie Lavery, the program’s leader, emphasized the positive impact of the exercise program on participants’ health and well-being. She shared success stories, including Patty Knight’s improved AC1 levels and flatter stomach, and 88-year-old Arlene McCurdy’s increased flexibility and overall health, which impressed her doctor. Beyond physical benefits, the program has fostered a close-knit community where participants look out for one another. Many non-church members have even contributed to the church’s F.U.E.L. program and attended special events, further strengthening ties within the group.
While the new chairs may not be the sole reason for the program’s success, their addition has undoubtedly enhanced the experience for participants. Lavery expressed gratitude for the support from the ENCORE Ministry Foundation, noting that it has made a significant difference to everyone involved.
The Be Fit program at Bethlehem UMC exemplifies the power of community and the importance of accessible fitness opportunities. With its innovative approach to exercise and the unwavering support of its participants, the program continues to thrive, improving lives and fostering connections along the way. To see the class in action, click here and search for the October 23, 2025 post on the church’s Facebook page.
