A group of seniors hits the boardwalk in the Rockaways for a walk, and some calisthenics too. Among them is Janice Williams, who estimated the mileage of this twice-a-week gathering on the boardwalk.

“It was at least two and a half, maybe three today. We went a little further, but with the exercise and the walking, it’s so, so good,” Williams said.

The free program is called Wise Walking Warriors, part of CityParks Seniors Fitness from the City Parks Foundation. On this day, the group was led by instructor Lisa George, who has been doing this for three years.

“We come out, we’ve had great weather. There’s nothing like walking near the ocean. It’s very inspiring, the inspiration is there, and we feed off of each other,” George said.

Chineda Lewis uses a walker to get up and down the boardwalk and said the program has made her stronger and given her more stamina.

“I try to keep up, and I found out I can keep up after a couple of weeks, so it’s a wonderful experience,” Lewis said.

The program is more than just walking. There are weekly nutrition classes teaching seniors about healthy eating and cooking.

“This is a comprehensive program for seniors to help them live their golden years with optimal health,” said Elizabeth Madison, registered dietitian nutritionist and Wise Walking Warriors director.

One of the locations for the program is the Arverne East Multi-Purpose Building at Beach 44th Street, a new community hub that opened earlier this year. It was built by L & M Development Partners, which has affordable housing under construction in the area.

“We are committed through our funding to bring nutritious, affordable food to residents, and also fitness programs, so this has been great to see,” said Kristina Fibkins of the Community Investment Team at L+M.

The program site in the Rockaways was launched in 2022 with funding from State Assembly member Khaleel Anderson and City Council member Selvena Brooks-Powers, along with additional support from L+M.