Linda Maledy is one of the best examples Healthy Dent County staff can think of when it comes to the importance of exercise and aging. Her graceful entrance into her senior years would never be guessed by those interacting with her. Over many years, she’s been a dance instructor and maintained her trim figure. As most of the community knows, a lifetime of weight maintenance does not magically happen. It takes work and self-discipline.
The importance of staying active was instilled into Maledy as a young girl. Her dad led by example with an active and athletic lifestyle. This is also when she began her dance journey by taking lessons as well as playing softball. Through dance, she received the obvious benefit of cardio, but also learned the value of stretching and movement. She continued this lifestyle with her own family. Maledy's two sons grew up playing sports and continue to exercise regularly as adults. She and her husband, John, have always enjoyed walking outside together when the weather permits.
In addition to leisure activities with the family, Maledy regularly attends Zumba classes two days per week at Healthy Dent County Fitness Center, walks on the treadmill or in the gymnasium, and maintains her strength with machines in the weight room. She has also attended Fitness Center bootcamps, yoga classes and cardio classes. She tries to get some form of exercise every single day for at least an hour and believes fitness has helped her maintain good health and keep a positive attitude. Maledy plans to always keep it a priority because she truly enjoys staying active and the benefits it offers, such as feeling better and having more energy. She prefers cardio but understands the importance of strength training and knows not to deny herself those opportunities and benefits. Maledy believes in the concept of moderation with it comes to her diet. She allows herself to enjoy a treat but doesn’t over-indulge.
Maledy is now retired after 42 years of a career which included 39 years with U.S. Foods and three years at Salem Memorial District Hospital. She continues to teach dance classes and enjoys Liturgical Dance at the Salem United Methodist Church with the Praise Band on Sundays. She can be found taking (or sometimes teaching) Zumba on Monday and Thursday evenings at 6:30 p.m. When she’s not busy being active, she does enjoy relaxing with a good book.
