Women’s Fitness Classes Group in Monessen for the Young at Heart

Last Updated on Thursday, 30 April 2026 21:33

By Jill Runfola

Fitness student Grace Calderone on left with class instructor Jethe Custer on right in the church hall.

Motivating class instructor Jethe Custer poses here between classes.

Jethe’s ‘Fun for Fitness’ group pause for a group photo.

Orchard Christian Fellowship (OCF) in Monessen, is holding fitness classes four days a week this year, in 2026. Women of all ages are participating, and Jethe Custer is the Certified Group Instructor. Jethe and her husband, Pastor John Custer, are co-pastors at the OCF. Jethe also teaches at the YMCA. Her inspiration to teach comes from Peggy Herthford, a long-time instructor at the “Y.”

Jethe studied Phys. Ed. and Health and instructed classes in Zumba at a gym called Step 4 (which is now a Curves). She says, “I love what I do, encouraging women of all ages to keep their bodies strong. Sometimes your dreams that you have when you are young can come much later in life. God’s timing is perfect.”

Grace Calderone, 95, has been a student in Jethe’s ‘Power Chair’ class, offered on Wednesday and Friday mornings at the church, for 7 years. She is an inspiration to everyone in the classes, and her motto is: “Keep Moving.”

There were 21 people at the Wednesday chair class on April 15. They focus on strength, balance, and flexibility. Total-body workout and dance/fitness classes are also held.

“We have a lot of fun together working out, and the group has grown,” said Jethe. “New friendships have developed, and we motivate and support each other.”

Scientific evidence suggests that people who exercise regularly not only live longer but also live higher-quality lives with less pain and a lower chance of disability. Unlimited classes are available for $20 per month. Classes cost $2 each, with a rate of $1 per class for those over 65. For details on the class schedule Jethe teaches, parking, or the building entrance, please call Jethe at 724-544-0699. The Orchard Christian Fellowship Church Fellowship Hall, is located at 721 Schoonmaker Ave. in Monessen.