Mary Ann Wilson facts for kids
Mary Ann Wilson was born on May 15, 1938. She is an American nurse and a TV fitness instructor. Mary Ann is also the person who started and hosts the popular exercise show Sit and Be Fit. This show is shown on more than 100 PBS television stations all over the United States.
In 1987, Mary Ann Wilson started her PBS show Sit and Be Fit. The show offers many different exercises. These exercises are great for older people and those who find it hard to move around a lot. The show focuses on exercises you can do while sitting in a chair. You can also use a chair to help with other movements. These exercises are designed to be easy to do.
Mary Ann's Journey
Mary Ann Wilson started her career as a registered nurse. She worked with older adults and people recovering from polio. In 1985, she was teaching an exercise class. She noticed that many older people were getting hurt. They also found it hard to keep up with the exercises.
Because of this, Mary Ann created a new, gentle exercise program. This program was made just for their needs. Her students soon reported feeling much better. They felt better both physically and mentally. This made Mary Ann believe that many people across the country needed this type of exercise.
In 1987, KSPS-TV agreed to make her Sit and Be Fit TV show. They shared the first 30 episodes across the country. The Sit and Be Fit show has been on PBS stations ever since.
Mary Ann Wilson has also written several books about health and fitness. One of her books is called Chair Exercise Basics. She has also been featured in articles about health for older people. She teaches other health and fitness experts at big conferences. In 2017, she was honored by being added to the National Fitness Hall of Fame.
Her Life and Work
Mary Ann Wilson lives in Spokane, Washington. Her daughter, Gretchen Wilson, also lives there. Gretchen helps produce and direct the Sit and Be Fit TV programs. Mary Ann and Gretchen also appear together in an exercise DVD. The Sit and Be Fit TV show and its non-profit organization are both based in Spokane.
Mary Ann Wilson has done many important things. She is a registered nurse. She is also the main producer and host of the Sit and Be Fit TV series. She is the founder and leader of the Sit and Be Fit non-profit group. She is certified by the American Council on Exercise. She is also a member of several groups that help older adults stay active and healthy.
