Are you interested in becoming stronger and healthier? Are you looking for a new fitness routine? Come strength train in a safe, effective and enjoyable program that is lifting women to better health all over the country!

A new session of Strong Women, a research-based strength training program, will be offered by the West Feliciana Parks & Recreation Department starting Sept. 6.

Both morning and evening classes will be available - Tuesday and Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. and Wednesday and Fridays at 8 a.m. The classes will meet through Dec. 19 (with two one-week breaks) at the West Feliciana Community Center in Independence.

Participants may attend classes at any time and are not required to register exclusively for the morning or evening sessions. However, because resting muscles between strength training sessions is strongly recommended, participants should limit attendance to twice a week with at least 24 hours between sessions.

The StrongWomen program was developed by Miriam Nelson, PhD, an associate Professor at Tufts University. The program is based upon years of research on how strength training and proper nutrition improve the health of women of all ages. Research shows that a program of strength training not only improves muscle strength and bone density, but reduces falls, improves arthritis symptoms and increases flexibility.

That is especially important for mid-life and older women who often see declines in many of these functions with age.

Call the West Feliciana Parks and Recreation Department at 784-8447 for registration information and equipment needs. For additional information on the Strong Women program, contact Pam Myers, instructor, at 635-4878.

Online registration is available at IMAthlete.com (search for Strong Women).