Over the course of eight weeks, Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC) students and two faculty members gathered every Wednesday morning at Bethesda Park Senior Center, ready to welcome their clients from the senior center.
“I expected all levels from the seniors and thought I might need to guide a few during the walk,” said Simeon Brooks, a Dacula resident and GGC exercise science student. “But they blew me out of the water and lapped me many times.”
Each week, Brooks and fellow exercise science student Vanessa Munive, of Lawrenceville, greeted participants, checked their blood pressure and pulse, and led warm-up exercises before heading outside for a scenic 30-minute walk around the park. Afterward, the group returned inside for a cool-down session and a second round of vital checks. Each week also included a short information session covering topics such as hydration, nutrition, walking and breathing techniques for seniors.
“Seeing these women lap around me was inspiring,” Munive said. “They are always in good spirits.”
The program, Walk It Out Wednesdays, was created through a collaboration between GGC and Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation.
“We partnered with Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation for Walk It Out Wednesdays,” said Dr. Karen Perell-Gerson, professor of exercise science at GGC. “At some point in their careers, our students will work with older adults, and this initiative gives them that opportunity in a meaningful, hands-on way.”
According to 2025 data from the United States Census Bureau, approximately 12% of Gwinnett County’s population — more than 122,000 residents — is age 65 or older.
“We offer a variety of classes that encourage seniors to stay active,” said Amanda Groff, manager with Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation. “Walk It Out Wednesdays is a free program we hope to continue and expand over time.”
For Janet Connell, a Lilburn resident, the program provided the motivation she needed to build healthier habits.
“I needed a boost to get back into walking,” she said. “This class helps me get up and look forward to the rest of the day feeling good. Now, instead of going home and taking a nap, I stay active.”
The program has also helped participants overcome personal barriers.
“I’ve gained confidence in myself since starting this program,” said Judy Wilson of Lawrenceville. “I was afraid to walk alone because I’m a senior woman, but with this group, you have others around you and can move at your own pace.”
The benefits of walking and regular physical activity are well documented. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adults age 65 and older who engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week can improve functional ability, maintain a healthy weight, reduce blood pressure, and lower their risk of age-related illnesses, including heart and respiratory disease.
For many participants, the benefits extend beyond physical health.
“Walking helps clear my mind, and I enjoy the scenery,” Connell said.
For Brooks, who plans to apply to physical therapy school after taking a year to travel to Spain, the experience has been especially rewarding.
“This has given me more confidence communicating with seniors and watching their confidence grow each week,” he said. “Each week, they get faster.”
Munive, who plans to continue her education to become a physician assistant, said the experience reinforced her passion for working with others.
“I really enjoyed working with this class,” she said. “They have a great outlook on life, and they look forward to being here every Wednesday morning.”