Healthier Habits: Fellowship through fitness
By Alisha Reese, CMT
JA Health Writer
Let me simply start off by saying, age ain’t nothing but a number, and I can confidently back that up thanks to Belmont MB Church’s Healthier Habits program.
This incredible program is open to the entire community, welcoming individuals of all ages and backgrounds. But to my surprise, last Thursday’s fitness group included motivated participants ranging from 62 all the way to 90 years young!
Upon my arrival, Pastor Tonie L. Crisler provided an indepth overview of the program and its objectives. The coordinators are all passionate about providing healthy lifestyle options not just to their church members but the community as a whole. All are welcome to benefit from it. Whether it is a motivational speaker, nutritionist, or health coach, Pastor Crisler is active in incorporating positive lifestyle options to this outreach program. Even with the challenges they faced as a result of the pandemic in 2020, this resilient church family pushed through all obstacles to bring Healthier Habits to life.
Now, let’s get into these healthy habits that were on display! Before the group exercise began, I had the pleasure of spending time with Frank White as he powered through his warm-up on the stationary pedal machine. At 90 years young, White shared fellowship is the most rewarding part of his participation. He looks forward to his 25-minute bike session before joining the one-hour group workout.
The gem he left me with?
“Age can slow you down, so I focus on what I can do – not what I used to do.”
We shared a few laughs as the Let’s Get Healthy Board of Directors joined in to celebrate the energy and dedication White brings to the Belmont community. In that moment, I could already feel the joy he spoke of – the kind that naturally flows from genuine fellowship and shared purpose.
As 5:00 PM approached, Bridget Archer, one of the city’s most accomplished choreographers and now a beloved dance instructor, stepped into the room. The empty chairs filled up quickly, the music dropped, and there was no turning back!
I was especially impressed by the thoughtful use of chairs, which added support and stability while keeping the workout just as dynamic and engaging. Archer brought the heat with a fun, high-energy routine that looked like rhythmic dancing while sitting. The playlist was filled with upbeat gospel tracks that uplifted the spirit, and the grand finale – “Boots on the Ground” – almost made me join in as Archer passed out handheld fans to some of the women.
The class ended with soothing stretches and guided breathwork, grounding everyone back into their bodies with love and intention. Afterward, I spoke with several participants, all of whom expressed how inspired they were by White’s presence and example. Every person there moved with purpose, because as we all know, movement matters.
I had the privilege of bringing my own mom who is 78 years young. She enjoyed this much needed workout and community love. We were both thrilled to see other mother-daughter duos in attendance.
If you’re looking for a wellness space where fellowship, fun, and health come together, this is it. This is a place that feels like home with people you can call family.
Belmont Missionary Baptist Church is located at 14011 Highway 18, Raymond, MS, 39154.
To learn more about the Healthier Habits Outreach Program, contact Chairperson Bessie Banger, 601-613-6406.
