Jason brings many dimensions of wellness to life
The concept of social fitness has gotten a lot of press in the post-COVID era. We’ve all seen the headlines warning of an epidemic of loneliness. Further studies have identified social connections as the most important factor for longevity, happiness, and resilience.
As a result, some experts suggest we treat social connections and relationships like we do physical fitness—as something we regularly practice and maintain. The theory goes that, just like with strength training or aerobic fitness, if we don’t use it, we lose it.
Jason Cherry, the Fitness Director at Prairie City Landing, believes in this more holistic view of fitness. Relationships are central to everything he does—which means that Jason’s presence extends beyond the fitness center.
Jason’s philosophy begins with fun. When things are fun, you’re more likely to engage with them regularly. And the best fitness program is the one you do regularly.
One of Jason’s favorite pastimes and art forms is playing video games. He is especially interested in old-time, retro games, like the kind you might have played at the pizza parlor a while back. He recently took that personal interest and turned it into a fun social event at Prairie City Landing.
Using AI, Jason designed a trap shoot game, incorporating graphics that showcase Prairie City Landing. It is a simple game—a clay pigeon flies through the air, and the player clicks a button to shoot the disc. The more accurate the shot, the higher the points.
Knowing the importance of social connections, Jason made this one- or two-player game more social with a tournament. Twenty-five residents gathered in the theater to compete and cheer each other on. Laughter and excitement ensued as residents took turns at the controller.
One resident had so much fun playing that Jason downloaded the game on her iPad so she could play on her flight to Chicago!
What does this game have to do with physical fitness? Not a lot, Jason admits. Players are developing some hand-eye coordination. They are engaged cognitively, trying to figure out the rules and timing. And they get to practice association fitness—the skill of following an instructor’s movements and cues.
But thinking of this as a physical fitness activity misses the point. Jason designed this game (as he designs all his fitness classes) to bring people together. When you build community, you are exercising one of the most important “muscles” we have—the skill of connecting with others.