Stronger Together: How River Landing Added Life to Years
A 12-Week Transformation Through the Keiser STEP Program
The Challenge
Like many older adult communities, River Landing at Sandy Ridge faced barriers to fully engaging residents in progressive strength and power training.
- Most residents had little to no experience with structured strength programs.
- A prevalent fear of fast or power-based movements existed.
- Staff and residents were accustomed to traditional, slower training models.
- Previous wellness programming saw moderate participation but limited measurable outcomes.
Leadership wanted more than just fitness. They envisioned a culture of independence, confidence, and tangible functional improvement.
The Solution: The STEP Program by Keiser
River Landing implemented the 12-week STEP pilot program, combining:
- Advanced Training Technology – Safe, adaptive Keiser equipment with real-time feedback and resident-friendly design.
- Staff Education & Certification – Preparing the team to coach both strength and power principles.
- Progressive Programming – Training designed to improve the real-world functional abilities of older adults.
- Resident Education – Demystifying power training and encouraging a shift from fear to empowerment.
Measurable Results: Functional Outcomes
Average Improvements Across Participants:
- Leg Power ↑ 22%
- Sit-to-Stand Speed ↑ 16.8%
- Gait Speed ↑ 11%
Top individual results:
- Leg Power ↑ 81%
- Sit-to-Stand ↑ 46%
- Gait Speed ↑ 31%
One 72-year-old resident completely reversed osteopenia by the program’s end.
STEP Participants Became STEP Champions
Immeasurable Results
Beyond numbers, the River Landing community experienced:
- Increased Independence: Residents reported more confidence in walking, standing, and daily living tasks.
- Social Engagement: New friendships and support networks formed around STEP classes.
- Personal Transformation: Participants overcame fear, embraced power training, and inspired others to join.
- Resident Champions: Graduates of the program began assisting new members — creating a self-sustaining culture.
Why It Worked: The STEP Advantage
Smart, Accessible Equipment Designed for Older Adults- Adaptive resistance system minimizes joint stress and supports safer, progressive overload.
- Precision resistance control with 1-pound increments allows tailored progression for every user.
- User-friendly interface provides real-time feedback— building confidence and motivation.
- Ergonomic design accommodates a wide range of body sizes, movement patterns, and ability levels.
- Staff guided residents from initial hesitation to enthusiastic participation.
- Speed and strength training increased residents’ ability to perform critical daily tasks like standing, walking, and fall prevention.
- Residents encouraged each other and shared successes community-wide.
...this is why we buy Keiser equipment. No other company is going to come to me and say, 'We want to educate you more. We want to educate your residents and do this program with you.' I just do not see that happening with other companies.
Courtney Bless, Wellness Director
The Business Impact
Higher Wellness Center Engagement
- Classes expanded due to demand.
- Residents now promote the program themselves.
Improved Retention and Resident Satisfaction
- Residents feel healthier and more confident.
- Family members report seeing tangible quality-of-life improvements.
Hear from the Wellness Staff at River Landing
Wellness Director
River Landing at Sandy Ridge
Wellness Assistant
River Landing at Sandy Ridge
Wellness Assistant
River Landing at Sandy Ridge
Experience STEP in Your Community
STEP by Keiser is more than equipment. It’s a turnkey solution designed to:
- Empower residents to regain strength, confidence, and independence in daily life.
- Equip and upskill staff with proven training, certification, and ongoing support.
- Strengthen the business case for wellness by increasing resident retention, boosting engagement, and improving occupancy through measurable outcomes.
Contact us to bring STEP to your community and help residents add not just years to life, but life to their years.
Learn More: Download the STEP Guide | Why Keiser for the Longevity Market