Dr. Peggy Mulcahy demonstrates using a roller to ease muscle pain during Karen Baker’s Myofascial Muscle Massage class offered at the start of the Healthy Me program.
Karen Baker gave a presentation on the benefits of yoga during the kick-off session of the Healthy Me 2014 program.
The Healthy Me program for 2014 held its kick off presentation on Friday, June 13 and it proved to be quite lucky for our participants as they were treated to a varied and interesting presentation about the new and improved program for this year. The attendees had an opportunity to hear about many of the benefits to the Healthy Me program and meet some of the excellent group exercise instructors at the Anza Fitness Center.
Roger Ederle, Tai Chi instructor, provided an interesting presentation on using Tai Chi for arthritis and fall prevention. This class is suitable for any beginner for health improvement and effective in preventing falls. Karen Baker’s presentation included a review of Myofascial release, a soft tissue therapy for treatment for immobility and pain. Karen invited the attendees to participate in a free class using special foam rollers the following day. Mary Jane Goodrick’s presentation described the extensive variety of classes that she teaches at the Anza Athletic Club and the importance of finding an enjoyable activity. Mary Jane also invited Healthy Me participants to try each class one time for no charge!
Ernie Lopez, Quail Creek resident, did an excellent power point presentation on setting fitness and activity goals by first establishing the desired outcome, then determining available assets that are available and finally setting a course of action. Dr. Peggy Mulcahy provided a fascinating review of the many benefits of regular activity and explained BMI (body mass index) and the optimum goal range. Rounding out the presentation was Niki Michaels from Weight Watchers who explained the importance of developing a healthy relationship with food. You may also want to start introducing healthy snacks to your life as well by trying an oats protein bar after you exercise, or to have as a snack to keep you energized throughout the day.
Healthy Me participants receive the following as part of the $25 fee: a weekly newsletter offering fitness tips, activity suggestions and a reduced calorie but delicious recipe; a motivational wrist band; specific handouts and information; a special Food and Exercise Journal; an activity tee shirt; weekly support meetings; free or reduced fee exercise classes; an opportunity to meet new friends and improve the quality of life. At the conclusion of the program there will be a drawing for all registered participants to win the following: a FitBit activity tracker; a free massage; a free yoga class; a series of exercise classes; a round of golf for four at Quail Creek; or dinner for two at The Grill.
There will be a mid-term meeting on July 23 to review goals with special presentations for Healthy Me members by Karen Baker on specific foods prior to and after a workout and Mark Mandel on the benefits of sports/clinical massage.
Registration for Healthy Me has been extended, with the final deadline set for July 21. Forms are available at the Anza Athletic Club but must be returned by 6:00 p.m. Monday, July 21. To those who have already started the program, you will have the option of continuing for the additional three week period and continuing with the weekly support meetings and newsletter and getting even healthier, or concluding after the 10 week period.