#FitFeb has kicked off at Tapestry! Our residents and staff are engaging in some friendly competition throughout February to encourage everyone to get more active through this last stretch of winter. This focus on fitness has lead us to chat with our fitness teams. Each of our Tapestry communities employs highly qualified, specialized trainers who offer group classes as well as one-on-one training and/or rehab.

Did you know that Tapestry at Village Gate West in Toronto offers four fitness classes daily? And there are anywhere from 30-40 participants! At our Toronto community, we even have a therapeutic aquafit pool where Olga hosts classes as well as one-on-one training.

Olga Polanski is Tapestry’s fitness instructor in Toronto (Etobicoke). With over 10 years of experience working with seniors, education in gerontology, and a background as a physiotherapist assistant, she has grown the fitness class offerings tremendously in the past two years. Not surprisingly, Olga has a number of fans in the community including resident Gerry. He credits Olga’s one-on-one training with his strengthening and increased mobility after a broken hip. Gerry also gained weight back after losing 50 pounds from an infection he contracted while in hospital. Gerry’s next goal? He wants to dance again. And we’re sure he will achieve that with Olga’s support.

Olga’s advice for success in fitness classes at Tapestry is focused first and foremost on building relationships with residents. The stronger your relationships, the better customized are her fitness classes and one-on-one training.

In light of the #FitFeb focus, we asked Olga a few questions about fitness and balance.

What’s Olga’s favourite way to stay active?
She’s more of a fitness fan as opposed to a sports fan. Olga enjoys going to the gym regularly and her workouts at home.

How does Olga recharge?
Rest is one of the most important recharges for her. She also appreciates taking hikes in nature to recharge. Luckily, Tapestry at Village Gate West has its very own hiking club which she participates in regularly with residents.

When is Olga the happiest?
When she is with Tapestry residents! Working with them and helping them to improve fuels Olga’s passion.