At River Landing at Sandy Ridge, staying active is part of everyday life. From lively group workouts to personalized training, residents have access to fitness opportunities designed to keep them strong, mobile and connected. Leading the way is Wellness Coordinator Cedric Walthaw, whose upbeat classes have quickly become some of the most popular gatherings in the community.
Cedric brings years of experience working with athletes at every level, including time as a Strength and Conditioning Coach at North Carolina A&T State University and Middle Tennessee State University. But at River Landing, his focus is different. Here, it’s about helping older adults stay active, independent and confident in their daily lives.
“I loved the people, the community and the fitness center,” Cedric shared. “It felt like the right place to make a real difference.”
That difference is easy to see in his packed group classes, where residents move, laugh and encourage one another through structured circuit workouts. The circuits focus on balance, flexibility, strength and joint health, helping residents stay mobile and better prepared for everyday activities.
The environment is welcoming and inclusive, with exercises that can be modified for all ability levels. Residents work at their own pace, but the energy in the room is shared. Music plays, conversations flow and friendships grow.
“Structure and accountability make a big difference,” Cedric said. “Residents bond with each other, talk, laugh and build friendships. It becomes something they truly look forward to.”
In addition to group classes, Cedric offers short-term one-on-one wellness appointments to help residents learn how to properly use equipment, understand specific exercises and build progressions based on their individual goals. These sessions are designed to provide guidance, confidence and a strong foundation for continued success in the Wellness Center. It’s just one of the many ways River Landing invests in the health and wellbeing of its residents.
One of Cedric’s most talked-about offerings is his golf fitness class, designed specifically for River Landing’s active golfers. The program focuses on flexibility, rotation and strength to support a safer, more powerful swing.
“One resident told me she got her first hole-in-one after taking the class,” Cedric said. “She was so proud. Moments like that are why I love what I do.”
Beyond the physical benefits, Cedric’s classes are about connection. They create a space where residents feel supported, included and motivated to keep moving. It’s a reflection of River Landing’s broader commitment to helping residents thrive in every stage of retirement.
For residents of the future, it’s just one example of what life at River Landing has to offer: engaging fitness classes, expert guidance and a welcoming community that makes staying active both fun and meaningful. For current residents, it’s another reason to show up, move together and enjoy life to the fullest.
With his energy, encouragement and resident-first approach, Cedric is helping create a wellness culture where everyone feels welcome and where every class is something to look forward to.
By Jessica Ford
Kintura Content Specialist