Medical blog » Fitness

Four months of fitness and fun!

admin — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 18:05:51 +0000

Pune’s
only international gym, Gold’s Gym, has a fabulous way to keep their
members motivated and keep the competitive spirit alive.
It has come up with a
programme called ‘body transformation’ for all the Gold’s Gyms
around the world, which has several fitness events for the contestants spread
over four months to ensure they get
results!
One such event was an
early morning run at the racecourse. All the participants were in great spirits
as they turned up at 7 am to do the laps. Guided by their body gurus, the
members Uppal Singh, Neelima Borawke, Alloysius and Poornima Singh were spotted
burning their calories and enjoying themselves while at
it.
At the end of four months,
one lucky winner from Pune will get to take home Rs 1 lakh and also stand a
chance to represent Gold’s Gym India at the Las Vegas convention in July
2009. With the excitement building up and some great fitness events in store for
the members, Gold’s Gym sure is ensuring people lose weight the fun
way!

British Swim School Opens New Miami Location at Bally Total Fitness

admin — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 07:58:04 +0000

SUNRISE, Fla.
,
Feb. 19
, the only
swim school with indoor heated pools, has announced today the opening
of a new location in Cutler Ridge at Southland mall serving the
Miami, Florida
.
British Swim School teaches children and adults how to swim, starting with
babies as young as 3 months old. With 25 years of experience,
courtesy of British Swim School has become more affordable and
easier.
and has taught thousands of kids and adults how to swim.
at Bally Total Fitness is an excellent
partnership,” said
, COO of British Swim School.
, at
, Cutler Ridge,
Pembroke Pines, Florida
. British Swim School
offers
for adults and children of all ages.
The British Swim School has been dedicated to saving lives for more than
25 years, and their survival skills are based on teaching beginners, of all
age groups, that the ability to float on their back is the most important
survival skill of all. Over many years, owner
has consistently
developed and improved the methods taught at her schools. All of the school’s
teaching is a gradual, gentle and fun process geared toward complete water
safety and independence in the water.

Fitness calendar

admin — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 21:49:45 +0000

Submit entries at least two weeks in advance to Fitness Calendar, P.O. Box 2090, Asheville, NC 28802, e-mail to
or fax to 251-0585.
PRANAYAMA: A breath and meditation mini-series, 9-11 a.m. Feb. 28, Lighten Up Yoga, 60 Biltmore Ave., Asheville. $30 per class. Advance register at 254-7756.
RESTORATIVE YOGA: Mini-workshop to restore energy, nourish and soothe your mind, body and spirit with use of props to support the body. Participants should have at least six months yoga experience. 2-4 p.m. March 28, One Center Yoga, 120 Coxe Ave., Asheville. $25. Call 225-1904 to register.
BEGINNING YOGA: 9:30 a.m. Fridays, Women’s Fitness, 1987 Hendersonville Road, Asheville. Call 654-1658 to register.
CARDIO CLASS: 9:30 and 11 a.m., 3:30 and 6:30 p.m. Mondays, Women’s Fitness, 1987 Hendersonville Road, Asheville. Call 654-1658.
INTRO TO IYENGAR YOGA: Six-week series, 5:30-7 p.m. Thursdays, Feb. 19-March 26. Learn the basics of postures and lay foundation to progress to Level 1 classes. Meets at One Center Yoga, 120 Coxe Ave., Asheville. $60. Register at 225-1904.
LIFEGUARD TRAINING: Learn lifeguarding skills, First Aid and CPR for the Professional Rescuer and more, 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays, March 4-May 6, at the YWCA, 185 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville. Participants must be at least 15 and pass a pre-test. Cost is $175, includes all materials. Register at 254-7206, ext. 110.
NIA AND DANCE PARTY: Free event, 7-8:30 p.m. the second Saturday of each month, South Asheville Yoga, 1378 Hendersonville Road. All ages welcome. Smoke- and alcohol-free. Call 866-703-2423.
NIA FITNESS: Playful infusion of dance, martial arts and healing arts, 9:15-10:30 a.m. Saturdays, South Asheville Yoga, 1378 Hendersonville Road. All levels. Call 866-703-2423.
PERSONAL TRAINING: Small group style, with a NASM-certified personal trainer, 9 a.m. Wednesdays, Women’s Fitness, 1987 Hendersonville Road, Asheville. $7 for non-members. Call 654-1658 to register.
POWER YOGA: Invigorating class of poses, breathing and meditation, 8:30-10 a.m.Thursdays, South Asheville Yoga, 1378 Hendersonville Road. Free class offered Feb. 19. Call 687-9642 for more.
YOGA FOR DETOXIFICATION: Six-week series to learn how to detoxify the the body and mind, as well as dietary measures to implement, 6-7 p.m. Thursdays, Feb. 26-April 2, One Center Yoga, 120 Coxe Ave., Asheville. $60. Register at 225-1904.
YOGA: 8 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, at Grace Episcopal Church, Merrimon Avenue, Asheville. $5 per class. Call 281-4460.
AGELESS GRACE: Classes, noon-12:30 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays, Pardee Rehab and Wellness Center. Cost for wellness program participants $4 per session, $24 for eight classes. Cost for others $5 per class, $37 for eight classes. Call 698-6774.
BELLYDANCE: For women only. Tuesdays: 6-7 p.m., beginner; 7:15-8:15 p.m., skills and drills; 8:20-9:35 p.m., advanced topics in Middle Eastern dance (by permission only). Thursdays: 6-7 p.m., beginner tribal; 7:15-8:15 p.m., skills and drills. Studio Zahiya, Carolina Lane, Asheville. First class free. $12 drop-in, $40 for four, $72 for eight, $90 unlimited monthly pass. Call 242-7595.
BELLY DANCING: Beginner classes at 7:30 p.m., advanced at 8:30 p.m. Wednesdays, New Studio of Dance, 20 Commerce St., Asheville. Call 225-5043 or visit
.
BELLY DANCING: Middle Eastern belly dancing, 5:45-7:15 p.m. Mondays., at West Asheville Rec Center, 970 Haywood Road. Offered by Asheville Parks and Recreation and the recreation center. Cost $30 for Asheville residents, $35 nonresidents. Call 251-4031 or e-mail
.
BODY COMBAT: Aerobic training program that combines moves and stances from a range of self-defense disciplines, Asheville Racquet Club. Call 274-3361.
CARDIO-CYCLING: 40-minute class for all fitness levels, 6 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, Biltmore Fitness, 711 Biltmore Ave., Asheville. Free for members, $7 nonmembers. Call 253-5555.
CYCLING: 6:15 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Biltmore Fitness, 711 Biltmore Ave., Asheville, 253-5555.
FELDENKRAIS: Class in the Feldenkrais Method to reduce pain, increase range of motion and increase vitality, 1 p.m. Mondays, 7 p.m. Wednesdays and 9:30 a.m. Fridays, Asheville Movement Center, 4 Richmond Ave., Asheville. Call 275-4838 or visit
.
FITKICK: Interval-based cardio workout that improves strength, endurance and stability, supported by driving music, 5:45-6:45 p.m. Tuesdays, 03 Health and Fitness, 554D Riverside Drive, Asheville. Cost $10 per class. First class free. Call 258-1066.
HIP-HOP: For women only. Sundays: 4-5 p.m., beginner; 5:15-6:15 p.m., hip-hop bellydance fusion. Studio Zahiya, Carolina Lane, Asheville. First class free. $12 drop-in, $40 for four, $72 for eight, $90 unlimited monthly pass. Call 242-7595.
HIP-HOP DANCE: High-energy class of fitness and dance for ages 7 and older, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Haywood Regional Health and Fitness, Clyde. Free to members, $20 for public per month. Call 452-8080 to register.
JAZZERCISE: Fusion of jazz dance, resistance training, Pilates, yoga and kickboxing movements, 4:35 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, 6 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:30 a.m. Saturdays, Carver Community Center, 101 Carver Ave., Black Mountain. Call 669-8610.
JAZZERCISE: Incorporates aerobics, yoga, pilates and kickboxing movements into dance routines set to music. 9:15 a.m. Monday-Friday; 4:20 and 5:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 6:35 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday; 8:15 and 9:25 a.m. Saturday; 4:20 p.m. Sunday. Jazzercise Fitness Center, 3426 Sweeten Creek Road, South Asheville. Call 891-8413 or e-mail
. $10 per class or $38 (plus $50 joining fee) per month for unlimited.
JAZZERCISE: Combines elements of jazz dance, resistance training, Pilates, yoga and kickboxing. Call 800-FIT-IS-IT (348-4748) or visit
. Monday-Friday at the Whitmire Activity Building, 301 Lily Pond Road, Hendersonville. Call 692-3585 or e-mail
.
KICKINSHAPE: Interval training through cardio kickboxing, leg strengthening and abs workout. 6-6:45 a.m. every Wednesday. $10 per class. Call 552-0861. At 10 Fieldcrest Circle (off Leicester Highway.)
LEBED METHOD: Classes, 10-11 a.m. Saturdays, Pardee Rehab and Wellness Center. Cost for wellness program participants is $8 per session, $48 for eight classes. Cost for others is $10 per class, $64 for eight classes. Call 698-6774.
LINE DANCE CLASSES: Stoney Mountain Activity Center, 800 Stoney Mountain Road, Hendersonville. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Beginners: 9-10:30 a.m.; intermediate: 10:30 a.m.-noon. $5 per class. 697-4900.
LINE DANCING: Classes to improve cardio and metabolism and relieve stress. Beginner classes at noon, intermediate at 1 p.m. Mondays, Harvest House, 205 Kenilworth Road. Call 350-2051 or e-mail
to register.
LOW-IMPACT AEROBICS: Classes, 4:15-5:15 p.m. Wednesdays, Cheshire Fitness and Racquet Club, 25 Jane Jacobs Road, Black Mountain. Free for Fitness Plus members. Senior discounts available. Call 664-0400.
LOW-IMPACT AEROBICS: Classes, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Mondays, 8-9 a.m. Tuesdays, noon-1 p.m. Thursdays and 9-10 a.m. Fridays, Pardee Health Education Center in the Blue Ridge Mall, Hendersonville. Cost $4 per class. Call 692-4600.
NIA: Join Namaste Yoga & Healing Center in downtown Asheville for Nia (a blend of martial arts and dance set to music.) Connect with mind, body, spirit and community. 5:45-6:45 p.m. Mondays, 10:45-11:45 a.m. Fridays. $11 or studio packages available. Call 253-6985.
NIA: A joyful blend of martial arts, dance and healing arts, these classes are for any fitness level, beginning to advanced. 9:30 a.m. Wednesdays and Fridays, 10:30 a.m. Saturdays, Training Partners, 863 Merrimon Ave., Asheville, below Stein Mart. First class is free, then $12 per class or $90 for 10 classes. 768-8809.
NIA: Non-impact aerobic movement for all ages and ability levels, 8:45-9:45 a.m. Saturdays, Stoney Mountain Activity Center, Hendersonville. Combines dance, martial arts and yoga. First class free, then $8. Call 697-7449.
NIA: Classes using a non-impact fitness technique that incorporates elements of dance, martial arts and physical or healing arts, 11 a.m.-noon Wednesdays and Fridays, Pardee Rehab and Wellness Center. Cost for wellness program participants is $8 per session, $48 for eight classes. Cost for others is $10 per class, $64 for eight classes. Call 698-6774.
NIA: Classes, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, the Asheville Arts Center, 308 Merrimon Ave., Asheville. Call 253-4000 or visit
.
NIA CLASSES: Have fun, get fit, 9:30 a.m. Saturdays, South Asheville Yoga, 1378 Hendersonville Road. $11 drop in rate/ discount class cards available.
NIA DANCE-FUSION FITNESS: A creative, dynamic way to stay fit, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Wednesdays, The Cooperative Body, 10 Richland St., Asheville. $10 drop-in or $45 for six-class series. Call 683-8460.
NIA FITNESS: Ongoing classes, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Mondays and Thursdays and 5:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Opportunity House, 1411 Asheville Highway, Hendersonville. Cost for 10 sessions is $70 for members, $80 for nonmembers. First class free. Call 692-0575.
NIA FITNESS: 9:30-10:30 a.m. Saturdays, South Asheville Yoga, Hendersonville Road. Fusion of martial arts, dance and healing arts. More at
.
NIA FITNESS: Non-impact aerobic movement for all ages and abilities. Especially beneficial for those with neck pain, back pain, arthritis or joint inflammation, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, HealthWorks Wellness Centre, Laurel Park. First class is free. Call 697-7449.
STEP AEROBICS: Asheville Parks offers ongoing class, 6-7 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, Oakley Recreation Center, 749 Fairview Road, Asheville. Weekly class fee is $2 for city residents, $2.50 for nonresidents. Call 251-4042.
STEP AEROBICS: Also light weights, stretching and yoga. 5:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Stephens-Lee Center, off South Charlotte Street, Asheville. Free. Call 350-2058.
STEP INTERVAL: 5:45 p.m. Thursdays, Biltmore Fitness, 711 Biltmore Ave., Asheville, 253-5555.
TURBO KICK: Cardio kickboxing classes, 5:30 p.m. Thursdays, Body Shop, Fletcher. E-mail
.
ZUMBA: 10 a.m. Mondays, Biltmore Fitness, 711 Biltmore Ave., Asheville, 253-5555.
BODY PUMP: 5:45 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, Biltmore Fitness, 711 Biltmore Ave., Asheville, 253-5555.
CARDIOYOGATONE: Yoga class incorporating sun salutations and other yoga poses with weight lifting and toning exercises for a new way to move into total fitness and balance. Breathing technique and relaxation included. First class is free. Drop in at South Asheville Yoga Studio, 2 Town Square, Biltmore Park. Call OUR-YOGA (687-9642) or
.
CIRCUIT BOOT CAMP: Incorporates machines, body weight exercises, plyometrics, boxing and ab/core work, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Saturdays, O3 Health and Fitness, 554 Riverside Drive, Asheville. $10 per visit. Call 333-0294.
FIT 360 TOTAL BODY CONDITIONING: Each class is filled with 30-minutes cardio and legs, and 30-minute upper body and abs. You need something to lay on, light hand weights and water bottle. 6-7 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, 10-11 a.m. Saturdays, Black Mountain Primary School. Class is $5 per visit and $3 for students. Call Leslie Raper at 664-9861.
INTENSE ABS: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays, Biltmore Fitness, 711 Biltmore Ave., Asheville, 253-5555. Membership required.
JOINT EFFORT: Class featuring basic exercise principles using range-of-motion techniques and low-level strength training, 11:15 a.m.-noon Tuesdays and Thursdays, Haywood Regional Health and Fitness Center, Clyde. Free for members, $30 per month for nonmembers. Call 452-8099.
KARATE: Classes for Big Brothers and Big Sisters volunteers and the kids they sponsor, 5-6 p.m. and 6-7 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 6-7 p.m. and 7-8 p.m. Fridays. Free. Call 456-9207 or 283-5599, e-mail
.
LATIN CARDIO: Workout with salsa, meringue, hip-hop and Brazilian samba moves, 5:30 p.m. Thursdays, YWCA, 185 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville. Call 254-7206. Membership required.
LUNCH CRUNCH FITNESS: 12:15-12:45 p.m. Monday (legs and abs), Wednesday (upper body and abs) and Friday (full body and abs). O3 Health and Fitness, 554 Riverside Drive, Asheville. $5 per class. Call 333-0294.
QUICK CARDIO: Boot camp class, 5:30-6 p.m. Tuesdays, Body Shop, Fletcher. E-mail
.
STRENGTH AND CARDIO: 10 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Biltmore Fitness, 711 Biltmore Ave., Asheville, 253-5555.
STROLLER STRIDES: Class for moms and their babies, 9-10 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Fletcher Park. Call 800-969-8134.
TONE AND STRETCH: Low-level strength and stretch class, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Haywood Regional Health and Fitness Center. Free for members, $30 per month for nonmembers. Call 452-8080.
WOMEN’S WORKOUT: Full-body workout with cardio, light weights and more, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Mondays, Stephens-Lee Center, off South Charlotte Street. Free. Call 350-2058 or e-mail
.
AFTER-SCHOOL YOGA: One-hour Anahata yoga for teachers and students, 4:30 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, 9 a.m. Saturdays, Namaste Yoga, downtown Asheville. Classes are $10/class or $50 for a six-week series. Call 253-6985.
ALIGNMENT-BASED YOGA: Ongoing class, noon-1:30 p.m. Mondays at One Center Yoga, 120 Coxe Ave., Asheville. For those who’ve completed an introductory Iyengar series or who are returning to yoga. Learn more about basic standing poses and be introduced to inversions and chest-opening poses. Register at 225-1904 or
.
ASHEVILLE PILATES: Individual sessions, equipment and mat classes, as well as the gyrotonic method. Call 230-0800 or visit
.
BACK CARE BASICS: Full yoga workout while learning how to sit, lift, lay down and move properly for healthy back care, 10:15-11:15 a.m. Mondays, South Asheville Yoga, 2 Town Square. Call 687-YOGA.
BAPTISTE POWER YOGA: Combination of education, discovery, knowledge and practices that result in transforming limitations into power. All skill levels welcome. Bring a mat, water and towel. 5:15-6:45 p.m. Thursdays, Training Partners, 863 Merrimon Ave., Asheville, 561-866-2280 or 645-3528. $12 per class or $50 series of five.
BEGINNING YOGA: Meets 4-5:15 p.m. Mondays, at the Healthworks Wellness Centre in Laurel Park. Cost is $40 for four classes. To register, call 551-8545.
BODY FLOW: One-hour class that combines Pilates, tai chi and yoga, eight times a week, Asheville Racquet Club. Call 274-3361 or visit
.
CENTERED CONDITIONING: Designed for anyone interested in improving their mindbody coordination, inner conditioning and balance. The principles and exercises are primarily derived from three Asian forms of self-defense: Aikido, Tai Chi and Pa Kua. Ease, inner strength and self-coaching are emphasized. 5-6 p.m. Mondays, Asheville Aikikai, 939 Riverside Drive. $12 class drop-in, $10 for six-week package. Call 299-3356.
CLASSICAL YOGA: All fitness levels and drop-ins welcome. Noon Wednesdays, Stephens-Lee Center, off South Charlotte Street, Asheville. Cost is $8/class. Call 350-2058.
COMMUNITY HATHA YOGA: Practice asana, meditation and relaxation, 6 p.m. Tuesdays, South Asheville Yoga, 1378 Hendersonville Road. No registration needed. Call 687-9642.
EVENING PILATES MAT CLASS: De-stress after a long workday, 5:15-6:15 p.m. Mondays, Training Partners, 863 Merrimon Ave., Asheville, 252-0920. Intermediate level. $12 per class or $50 series of five.
EVENING YOGA: Eight-week series of classes featuring gentle movement and stretching to enhance strength and flexibility, 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays or Thursdays, Mission Hospitals Women’s Resource Center. Call 213-2222.
EVERYDAY YOGA: Classes, 8:15 a.m. Thursdays, Asheville Arts Center, 308 Merrimon Ave. Call 253-4000.
FLOW YOGA: Move the body in fluidity through a variety of poses while incorporating breath awareness, 8:15 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday, Southeastern Fitness and Rehab, Turtle Creek Shopping Center, Hendersonville Road, Asheville. $10 per class or $50 for 10-visit card. Call 274-2188.
FLOW YOGA: Classes, 8:15 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, Southeastern Fitness, 23 Turtle Creek Drive. Call 274-2188.
KARMA YOGA CLASS: Eclectic-style class offered noon-1 p.m. every Friday, South Asheville’s Yoga Studio, 2 Town Square, Biltmore Park. Class fee is by donation. Call 687-9642.
MEDITATION CIRCLE: Meets 6:30-7:30 p.m. Thursdays, One World Healing Arts Institute, 2 Sulphur Springs Road, Asheville. More at 505-2300 or
.
MOVEMENT FOR BODY AND SOUL: Gentle exercise and breathwork designed to develop positive body awareness and self-compassion, 6-7 p.m. Wednesdays, T.H.E. Center for Disordered Eating, 297 Haywood St., Asheville. Sliding scale of $5-$10 per class. Call 337-4685.
PILATES: Sessions on the Pilates method, which uses concentration, control, precision, center, flowing movement and breathing, 6:30-7:15 p.m. Thursdays, Haywood Regional Health and Fitness Center. Cost $15 per month for members, $35 for nonmembers. Call 452-8080.
PILATES CLASS: Taught in six-week sessions with one class per week. Meets at 10 a.m. Mondays, Fletcher Town Hall, 4005 Hendersonville Road. $60 Fletcher residents, $72 nonresidents. Register by today. Call 687-0751.
PILATES: Dynamic core strengthening exercises that create muscular balance and improved posture, Cheshire Fitness and Racquet Club, Black Mountain. Free for Fitness Plus members, senior discounts available. Call 664-0400.
PILATES: Mat classes, 6 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Fridays, Weaverville. Cost $10. Call 231-8772.
PILATES FUSION: Individual or group instruction, 830 Hendersonville Road. Call 277-7745.
PILATES: Personal training. Call 216-7655 or visit
.
PILATES: Individual equipment and mat sessions, duo mat sessions and drop-in mat sessions. Training Partners, Inc. For cost, times and scheduling, call Corey Sinyai at 252-0920.
PI/YO: An athletic mind/body fusion for hyper people that combines Pilates, yoga, dance and strength in a flowing sequence for improved grace and power movement, 6:15 p.m. Thursdays, Body Shop, Fletcher. E-mail
.
PRENATAL YOGA CLASSES: Encourages relaxation, flexibility and strength in a gentle, nonstrenuous way, 4 p.m. Tuesdays, Asheville Yoga Center, 239 S. Liberty St., 254-0380; 6 p.m. Wednesdays, Women’s Resource Center, Mission Hospital, 50 Doctor’s Drive, Asheville; 10:45 a.m. Thursdays, Asheville Yoga Center. Call 213-2222.
RESTORATIVE YOGA: Class for those who experience fatigue, pain or limited movement such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, arthritis or multiple sclerosis. Weekly sessions include gentle stretching, relaxation exercises and restorative poses, 3 p.m. Wednesdays, Mission Hospitals Women’s Resource Center. Cost $10 per class. Call 213-2222.
STRETCH: Classes, 10-10:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, the Asheville Arts Center, 308 Merrimon Ave., Asheville. Call 253-4000 or visit
.
SUBTLE YOGA CLASS: Experience what yoga can truly offer, by using various poses, meditation and chanting. Class is appropriate for all levels. Cost is $30; register by phone, 669-2939. Visit
for complete schedule of classes.
TAI CHI: Classes, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays, East Asheville Rec Center, 906 Tunnel Road. Cost $100 for eight-week session, $50 for seniors. Call 251-4041.
TAI CHI AND QIGONG: Moving and meditative Chen-style practice with an emphasis on nurturing, 6:30-7:30 p.m. and 7:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesdays, East Asheville Community Center. Cost $100 for eight weeks. Call 691-7467 or e-mail
to register.
TAI CHI CHIH: Nine-week series, 3:30-4:45 p.m. Wednesdays at Harvest House, 205 Kenilworth Road, Asheville. $80. Registration available at 350-2051.
TAI CHI FOR AGES 40+: Reflective exercise to increase agility and reduce the risk of falls for seniors, beginner class 11:15 a.m.-12:50 p.m. Mondays, intermediate class 12:30-1:30 p.m. Mondays, Mission Hospitals Women’s Resource Center. Call 213-2222.
TAOIST YOGA: Classes, 8:45-9:45 p.m. Fridays, Greenlife Community Center, 90 Merrimon Ave., Asheville. Cost $7 per class. Call 254-5440.
YOGA: Ancient practice that includes stretching, holding postures, breath control and meditation, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Thursdays, Pardee Health Education Center. Cost $3 per session. Call 692-4600.
YOGA: 7 p.m. Tuesdays, Biltmore Fitness, 711 Biltmore Ave., Asheville, 253-5555.
YOGA: Classes, 8:15-9:15 a.m. Thursdays, Asheville Arts Center, 308 Merrimon Ave., Asheville. Call 253-4000 or visit
.
YOGA: Yoga and meditation classes, 90 Taylor Road. Call 628-1070 for days and times.
YOGA: Classes for all abilities, Asheville Racquet Club. Monthly passes available. Call 274-3361 or visit
.
YOGA: Classes, Haywood Regional Medical Center, Clyde. Cost $20 per month for members, $45 nonmembers. Call 452-8080 for dates, times and registration information.
YOGA: Classes, One Center Yoga, 120 Coxe Ave., Asheville. Call 225-1904 or visit
.
YOGA: Classes, 8 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, Grace Episcopal Church, 871 Merrimon Ave. Call 281-4460.
YOGA: Learn gentle, balanced sequence of yoga postures and stretches to strengthen body; beginners welcome, 5:45-7 p.m. Mondays, Harvest House, 205 Kenilworth Road, Asheville. $60/six-week session (city residents), $65/nonresidents, or pay $12 per class. Call 350-2051.
YOGA: Offering classes ranging from gentle to power; prenatal yoga series. 2 South Town Square Boulevard, Biltmore Park. Call 687-YOGA.
YOGA AND THE TWELVE STEPS: Focuses on the 12 steps of AA each week; class is open to everyone, 12:15-1:45 p.m. Tuesdays, South Asheville Yoga, 2 Town Square. Call 687-YOGA.
YOGA CLASSES: Taught in four-week sessions, class meets 2 p.m. Thursdays, Fletcher Town Hall. Cost is $40 Fletcher residents, $52 nonresidents. Call 687-0751 or visit
.
YOGA FOR HEALTH: Ongoing yoga classes for beginner and intermediate students, 5-6 p.m. Mondays or 8:45-9:45 a.m. Wednesdays, Fairview. Cost $10 for drop-ins, $80 for 10 classes. Call first for availability. Call 628-4075 or visit
.
YOGA FOR SHOULDER REHAB: Use of breathing, meditation and alignment-based yoga poses to bring healthy functioning to the shoulders. Appropriate for shoulder injuries including dislocation, subluxation and separation. 5:45 -7 p.m. Mondays, at One Center Yoga, 120 Coxe Ave., Asheville. $60. Call 225-1904 to register.
YOGA FUNDAMENTALS: 10 a.m. Wednesdays and Fridays, 9:45 a.m. Saturdays, Biltmore Fitness, 711 Biltmore Ave., Asheville, 253-5555.
YOGA WEDNESDAYS: Beginning yoga class, 1:30 p.m. Wednesdays at Earth Fare South, 1856 Hendersonville Road, Asheville. Learn basic poses, breathing and relaxation. $8. Free mats available. Call 687-YOGA.
AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM: For school-age children, two to five days per week, Cardio Kids, River Ridge Business Center, 802 Fairview Road, Asheville. Call 298-2111.
BOYS’ BOOT CAMP: Two 45-minute classes a week, for grades six and up, including strength and endurance training, boxing, cardio workouts, obstacle courses and more, Cardio Kids, River Ridge Business Center, 802 Fairview Road, Asheville. Call 298-2111.
CARDIO JAM: Two 45-minute classes a week, for third- through fifth-graders, similar to the mini jam class but for older children, Cardio Kids, River Ridge Business Center, 802 Fairview Road, Asheville.
FIT TOGETHER: Two 30-minute classes a week, for 2-3-year-olds and their caregivers, designed to help ease the transition into big kid class settings, Cardio Kids, River Ridge Business Center, 802 Fairview Road, Asheville. Call 298-2111.
FIT ‘N FUN FRIDAYS OUT: Three-hour class, for potty-trained 2- to 5-year-olds, including fitness, martial arts and story time, Cardio Kids, River Ridge Business Center, 802 Fairview Road, Asheville. Snack provided. Call 298-2111.
GAME TIME: Join the Parks Center, 906 Tunnel Road, Asheville, for circle games, parachute activities and more for toddlers, 11 a.m.-noon Thursdays. Cost is $1 per class. Call 251-4041.
HOME SCHOOL FITNESS: Two 45-minute classes per week, for school-age children, including kickboxing, aerobics and games, Cardio Kids, River Ridge Business Center, 802 Fairview Road, Asheville. Call 298-2111.
KIDS’ POWER KARATE: Designed to give youth discipline, focus and confidence, along with increased fitness, Thursdays, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver, Asheville. Phase 1: Beginners, 5-5:45 p.m. Phase 2: Intermediate, 6-6:45 p.m. $25 for an eight-week session. Call 350-2058 to register.
KIDZ SWIM CLUB: Improves fitness levels through swimming and swimming performance enhancement. For ages 8-13; all participants must be proficient swimmers. 4:30-5:15 p.m. Mondays, Haywood Regional Health and Fitness, Clyde. Free to members, $20 for public per month. Call 452-8080 to register.
MINI JAM: Two 45-minute classes per week, for kindergartners-second-graders, including kickboxing, creative movement, aerobics, obstacle courses and games, Cardio Kids, River Ridge Business Center, 802 Fairview Road, Asheville. Call 298-2111.
PARENTS NIGHT OUT: Three-hour class, for potty-trained children 3 and older, periodically on Saturday nights, Cardio Kids, River Ridge Business Center, 802 Fairview Road, Asheville. Call 298-2111.
PLAY WITH US-PLAY GROUP: Meet new moms, babies; adult participation required, 10 a.m.-noon Fridays. Meet at Parks Center, 906 Tunnel Road, Asheville. Free. Call 251-4041.
POWER HOUR: Melting pot of various fitness-based activities for ages 7-13. 5:30-6:15 p.m. Wednesdays, Haywood Regional Health and Fitness, Clyde. Free to members, $15 for public. Call 452-8080 to register.
PRESCHOOL POWER: Two 30-minute classes per week, for children 3-5, in a fast-paced and entertaining setting to help prepare for school, Cardio Kids, River Ridge Business Center, 802 Fairview Road, Asheville. Call 298-2111.
RED CROSS YOUTH SWIMMING LESSONS: Two sessions, both advanced, cost is $30 members, $50 public. Haywood Regional Health and Fitness, Clyde. Call 452-8080 to register. Session one: Ages 6 months-13 years, 9:30 a.m.-2:15 p.m. Saturdays. Session two: Ages 3-13, 4-6:30 p.m. Fridays.
TAE KWON DO: Gain self-defense skills, overall fitness, flexibility and self-confidence. For ages 8-13. 5:30-6:30 p.m. Mondays, Haywood Regional Health and Fitness, Clyde. Call 452-8080 to register.
TEEN WEIGHT TRAINING: Basic weight training class for teens 12-17, 4:30-5:30 Tuesdays and Thursdays, Stephens-Lee Community Center, 30 George Washington Carver St., Asheville. Call 350-2058.
TEENs WEIGHTS: Basic weight training class for teens 12-17, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Stephens-Lee Center, off South Charlotte Street. Free. Call 350-2058 or email
.
TORTUGA TUMBLERS: For ages 3-6, class incorporates gymnastics, dance and fitness, 10-10:30 a.m. Saturdays, Haywood Regional Health and Fitness, Clyde. $10 members, $15 public. Call 452-8080 to register.
TOTALLY TEENS: Two 45-minute classes per week, for girls in grades six and older, including kickboxing, cardio, spinning, aerobics, yoga, Pilates and nutrition advice, Cardio Kids, River Ridge Business Center, 802 Fairview Road, Asheville. Call 298-2111.
WALK, ROLL OR RUN: Fitness class for moms and babies; includes power walk in Haw Creek Park and 30-45 minutes of exercise, either noon-1 p.m. Wednesdays, or noon-1 p.m. Fridays. Free. Meet at the Parks Recreation Center, 906 Tunnel Road, Asheville. Call 251-4041.
YOUTH PROGRAMS: Programs based on participation and season, Haywood Center Regional Health and Fitness Center. Register for programs at the front desk. Call 452-8080.
40+ STRENGTH TRAINING: Class for women, including exercises to promote agility, balance, endurance, muscle tone, weight loss and stress reduction, 8:45 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, Mission Hospitals Women’s Resource Center. Call 213-2222.
40+ FITNESS: Series of movement and light resistance training exercises that tone and strengthen muscles, 3 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, Biltmore Athletic Club. Free members, $7 per class for nonmembers.
FOREVER FIT: Eight-week series of classes for senior women in low-impact exercises that tone muscles and encourage balance, 10-11 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, Mission Hospitals Women’s Resource Center. Call 213-2222 to register.
SILVER CARDIO CLUB: 3 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, Biltmore Fitness, 711 Biltmore Ave., Asheville, 253-5555.
SILVER SNEAKERS: Improve balance and coordination with senior-focused exercises, 11 a.m. Monday, 12:15 p.m. Tuesday, 9:45 a.m. Wednesday and 12:15 p.m. Thursday, Southeastern Fitness and Rehab, Turtle Creek Shopping Center, Hendersonville Road, Asheville. Call 274-2188.
SUPER SENIOR STRETCH: Stretching, resistance tubes, easy dance moves and more; half the class is done seated, chair support available while standing. 2-2:45 p.m. Wednesdays, Stephens-Lee Center, off South Charlotte Street, Asheville. Free. Call 350-2058.
YOGA AFTER 50: Class of individualized yoga poses emphasizing keeping the body and mind healthy and flexible, 9:30-11 a.m. Tuesdays. Call 254-7756 or visit
.
FLUID MOTION: Water class to relieve the discomfort and pain caused by back, hip or knee problems, arthritis, fibromyalgia or other conditions, 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, Haywood Regional Medical Center, Clyde. Free for members, $35 per month or $15 per day for nonmembers. Call 452-8080 or 452-8097.
SALTWATER POOL: Classes in the saltwater pool and Jacuzzi, Biltmore Athletic Club, 711 Biltmore Ave., Asheville. Free for members, classes cost $6. Pool closed Sundays. Call 253-5555.
SWIM LESSONS: Red Cross swim lessons for babies, pre-schoolers, youth, teens and adults. Water Works fitness classes for children and teens, at the YWCA, 185 S. French Broad Ave. Call 254-7206, ext. 110, or visit
. Membership required.
BODY PUMP: Group weight training with barbells set to motivating music, various times, Asheville Racquet Club. Call 274-3361 or visit
.
BODY SCULPTURE: Classes, 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Southeastern Fitness, 23 Turtle Creek Drive. Call 274-2188.
BOOTCAMP HIKE with the Traveling Trainer, 2-4 p.m. the first Sunday of each month. Meet in front of CVS in the River Ridge Shopping Center, Fairview Road, Asheville. Free. All fitness levels encouraged. Call 713-1141 to register.
BOXING CONDITION: 5:45 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays, Biltmore Fitness, 711 Biltmore Ave., Asheville, 253-5555.
CYCLING: Training sessions on an eight-unit Cycling Computrainer that offers metabolic profiling, VO2 sub-max tests and personal coaching, Asheville Velo Sports, second floor, Asheville Racquet Club. Call 274-3361, ext. 122, for times and cost. Visit
.
CYCLING TRAINING: Indoor computer trainer classes, Velosports Performance Center, 200 Racquet Club Road, Asheville, 777-2523. For schedule, visit
.
FREE SELF-DEFENSE INTRO SESSION: Experience yourself in a mindful, purposeful, powerful and effective state. Get a taste of your ability to defend yourself. Give the gift of this free one-on-one martial arts instruction. Schedule your free introductory self-defense session today: 515-0142. Asheville Sun Yi’s Tae Kwon Do, 1341 Parkwood Ave., Asheville.
GRACIE JIU JITSU: Developed from traditional jiu jitsu and known for its grappling techniques, using leverage and positioning for control. Meets 6:40-7:40 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Waynesville Recreation Center. Call 230-5056 or
.
H.E.A.T.: Class combining obstacle courses with cardio endurance drills, weights and core training for adults and kids, Asheville Racquet Club, 200 Racquet Club Road, Asheville. Call 274-3361.
GREAT BEGINNINGS: Low-level strength class, 8-8:30 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, Haywood Regional Health and Fitness Center, Clyde. Free for members, $25 for eight sessions for nonmembers. Call 452-8458.
SPEED CLINICS AND CAMPS: Workshops to learn techniques to increase speed, agility and quickness for all explosive sports. Call 281-7171 or visit
.
STEP/WEIGHTS CLASS: Step aerobics class with light weights, mat work and more, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Stephens-Lee Center, off South Charlotte Street. Free. Drop-ins welcome. Call 350-2058 or email
.
TRACK CYCLING CLINICS/TRAINING: Free clinics and skills practice, 9 a.m.-noon Saturdays, Carrier Park, Amboy Road, Asheville. Open to riders of all ages. Track bikes preferred, but road bike okay for first time. For more, e-mail
.
ASHEVILLE NORDIC WALKERS: Club, 6 p.m. Wednesdays, River Ridge Apartments Clubhouse. Call 298-4789.
ASHEVILLE YMCA WALKING CLUB: Walks last about 55 minutes and start and end with gentle stretching. Led by certified YMCA staff, walks begin at the YMCA on Woodfin Street, noon-1 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. Free, open to members and nonmembers. Call 210-9622 for more.
WALKING: Club using program of warm-up, cool-down and other educational components through the Asheville Buncombe Institute of Parity Achievement PACE program, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 70 S. Market St. Call 251-8364.
EXTREME BODY MAKEOVER: Weight loss classes with a registered dietician and exercise physiologist, noon-1 p.m. Wednesdays, aerobics room, Southeastern Fitness and Rehabilitation. Cost $10 per class for members, $15 per class for nonmembers, with an eight-class minimum. Call 274-2188 to register.
METABOLIC PROFILING: Consultation, including an assessment of caloric usage and resting metabolic rate, Asheville Velo Sports, Asheville Racquet Club. Free. Call 274-3361, ext. 122, for an appointment. Visit
.
NUTRITION CLASS: Nutrition and weight loss class, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Mondays for six weeks, Waynesville First United Methodist Church, 566 S. Haywood St. Free. Call 456-2894 for dates and to register.
WEIGHT MANAGEMENT: Workouts three times a week with a personal trainer supplemented by an eating plan to boost metabolism. Asheville Racquet, 1000 Brevard Road. Call 665-2323.

MBody Strength Adds Innovative Weighted Vest to Fitness Equipment …

admin — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 22:14:56 +0000

Fullerton, CA, February 11, 2009 –(
)– MBody Strength has added the CloseGrip Weighted Vest to their fitness equipment lineup. In their ongoing mission to provide their customers with high-quality, low-cost, effective fitness equipment, MBody Strength is proud to offer the innovative CloseGrip Weighted Vest, which uses standard weight plates found in most home gyms.
“The CloseGrip Weighted Vest is a cost-effective way to get into resistance training,” stated Marcus Martinez, MBody Strength’s founder and member. “No other weighted vest can carry as much weight as the CloseGrip Weighted Vest can at this price.”
Resistance training is used by fire fighters, law enforcement, and athletes to rapidly improve strength, stamina, and overall fitness. Using a weighted vest burns more calories in less time, allowing people to get a high-intensity, efficient workout in minutes.
The CloseGrip Weighted Vests’ innovative, form-fitting design is extremely comfortable with several points of adjustment and three pockets for holding standard weight plates. There is one design for men and one for women, each created to contour to the back, shoulders, chest, and stomach. Each weighted vest can carry up to 75 pounds.
The CloseGrip Weighted Vest is currently offered for $49.99 at MBodyStrength.com. Similar weighted vests can cost up to $300 for the same weight carrying capacity and quality.
“I use the CloseGrip Weighted Vest on a daily basis for running, kettlebell training, and bodyweight training,” said Marcus Martinez. “This is an extremely versatile piece of fitness equipment and one of the cheapest ways to enhance your high-intensity training.”

Owner of City Fitness named alongside Schwarzenegger

admin — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 09:49:53 +0000

“It’s kind of like a hall of fame for teenage bodybuilders,” says the 40-year-old in a thick British accent. “To be even ranked with people like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Lee Haney, all those bodybuilders are fantastic bodybuilders. And it’s of all time, it’s not just of our era. This is from the beginning of bodybuilding to present day. So it made me feel really good, actually.”
The magazine also made mention of how Harrison was doing these days and referenced his gym.
Harrison, who was 16 when he won the under-17 division of the 1985 Mr. Yorkshire in England, opened City Fitness, 821 12th St. W., in May of last year after working as a fitness expert and personal trainer at other gyms in the area.
“I worked at three or four local gyms and I just didn’t like the way they did business,” he says. “I didn’t like the way clients were treated.”
In opening City Fitness, Harrison says he wanted to go back to the roots of the old-fashioned gym — like those he trained in for the Mr. Olympia contest in 1995, where he placed 14th. The kind of gym where he once put 620 pounds across his shoulders and did 12 squats.
“I wanted to do a gym my own way and try to keep the social environment away from the gym environment,” Harrison says. “Because a lot of the bigger gyms, the gym floor, it’s like a big nightclub. And I don’t like that. To me, if you’re in a gym you should train.”
But Harrison did include a cafe at his gym where people can socialize or grab a bite before heading off to work after a workout. And the gym is not merely for hard-core bodybuilders. It tries to cater to all fitness enthusiasts, young and old.
Contrary to some large fitness chains, Harrison also tries to keep the atmosphere low-pressure.
He doesn’t have contracts. People pay a $50 fee on a month-to-month basis, which includes one session of personal training per month. Staff are also prohibited from approaching customers in the cafe to talk them into memberships, although they will gladly provide tours of the 7,000-square-foot facility if someone asks, he says.
The gym also offers a free workout to anyone who merely wants to try it out.
Harrison has focused on creating a clean, but serious, environment.
He also added some nice touches like individualized shower stalls with sinks that have locking doors and a place to hang your clothes.
“Who wants to get changed with 10 other guys?” Harrison says. “I don’t.”

Fitness Revolution in Motion

admin — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 22:06:02 +0000

The Alexandria YMCA is one of the first in this area to pilot an “I-gym” — a workout room filled with about a dozen pieces of equipment that marry video games and fitness. Think of it as Nintendo’s Wii on steroids. Across the river in Silver Spring, Woodlin Elementary School has tried out a NEOS, a giant orange play structure with flashing lights, colors and “whoop whoop” sounds.
“Kids are going to exercise if they want to and have fun doing it,” said Janice Williams, senior vice president for special projects at the YMCA of Metropolitan Washington. “So many kids are tech savvy, and video games are a draw to them, so why not have them use a video game that requires them to use movement?”
The effort does not come inexpensively. But here and at schools and in communities elsewhere, the investment reflects growing anxiety about the health and fitness of a generation of children who are heavier and could suffer more health problems than their parents and grandparents. The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 9 million — or 16 percent — of children between the ages of 6 and 19 are overweight by the agency’s standards, triple the number in 1980. But efforts to combat the problem over the past decade have made little progress in reducing waistlines. In the Washington region alone, one in four children is considered overweight, the CDC reports.
That’s why YMCA officials have decided to go digital.
The equipment in Alexandria allows students to “snowboard” without the chill and “drive” all-terrain vehicles without the mud. The students might not realize it, but all that peddling, balancing and hopping is boosting their heart rates and making them sweat, said Inez Edwards, association director of youth wellness for the YMCA of Metropolitan Washington.
Incorporating electronics into exercise equipment is not completely new. Many gyms and schools have adopted versions of Dance Dance Revolution, an electronic game that challenges players to follow dance steps displayed on a video screen into their fitness programs. Nintendo’s Wii, a video game system that encourages movement, has been a hit in schools and senior centers.
But the equipment at the Alexandria YMCA is even more sophisticated. Edwards pointed to two kids “snowboarding” down the side of the mountain. They weren’t just having fun: They were working their core muscles as they attempted to balance while steering, she said.
“You’re getting so engaged, you don’t want to stop,” said Mike Hansen, chief executive officer of iTech Fitness, which manufactures the equipment being used at the YMCA. “Kids don’t give you that much time. They want instant gratification, which is what these machines do.”
Hansen said the equipment is popular with gyms and YMCAs. Some hospital groups have also expressed interest in the machines. Sales have also grown internationally: Hansen said his company has a deal with a chain of fitness clubs in South Korea.
Because the machines have started to pop up in gyms and local schools only recently, there is little independent analysis of whether this equipment is more effective at holding young people’s attention longer, whether it provides more fitness benefits than traditional equipment and whether the outcome is worth the significant investment required to build a digital playground.
But watching students bounce from machine to machine, it’s hard to believe they’re not burning calories.

Thompson under fitness cloud

admin — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 07:33:46 +0000

A FITNESS cloud hangs over Melbourne Victory star Archie Thompson after the striker was not seen at training this morning.
Team officials hosed down speculation Thompson had suffered an injury, saying he was told not to train because of a stomach virus.
The setback comes as Victory prepare for Saturday night’s A-League grand final at Telstra Dome.
Midfielder Grant Brebner said he expected Thompson to be right in time for Saturday.
“Archie came in this morning but I don’t think he was feeling too good,” Brebner said.
“I don’t think it’s an injury so he should be fine.”

Gym cult: More for fashion streaks than fitness freaks

admin — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 04:26:45 +0000

The gymnasium culture has undergone a
sea change. It is no longer a hub for building those bulging muscles. Instead,
now it boasts of latest fashion and lifestyle statements. Sandeep Banerji brings
forth their new profile.
Allahabad: De-stress, stay in shape, or
simply hang out with buddies, whatever be the intention, the gym cult in
Allahabad is gaining new followers in droves by the day. Little doubt then that
the number of these fitness parlours have registered a steady increase over the
years.
“The gym is definitely a more casual place where people are
relaxed and more approachable. People tend to build friendships,” explains
Bhumika (21), an MBA aspirant and a regular gym goer.
“There are all
sorts of people with different personalities. Some are conservative, some
over-dressed, while some even come with fancy hairdos. Generally, most people
wear something acceptable and comfortable whereas a small group look freaky.
Although their grooming differs, they remain committed to maintaining a healthy
and beautiful appearance,” observes Shashank Tripathi, a gym owner in New
Katra.
Tripathi, a fitness freak himself, acknowledges that the
number of customers has increased indeed after the release of some Bollywood
flicks starring Shahrukh, Amir and Hritik, who started the wave six-pack
abs.
“Every other person is dressed in branded apparel, to the point
that it smacks of an obsession with a number of them. The styling of these sweat
wear leaves no doubt in the mind that the accent is on looking sexy rather than
making the workout functional,” feels Raju Jaiswal, in his forties, a hotelier
and a gym goer.
So the question then arises: When you put a bunch of
good-looking people together and create an environment that is sophisticated and
conducive, has the gym become a place for people looking to start a
relationship? Or is it the healthier alternative to clubbing, since all its
other ingredients are there – gyrating hips, swaying bodies and an ample
selection of music?
To learn more about this trend, The Times of
India spoke to a cross section of gym goers about their experiences at their
workout hangout. The results are not so much surprising as revealing. “Gone are
the days when a gymnasium was a place where fitness buffs, essentially males,
huffed and puffed away with an intimidating set of weights sweating those extra
calories out,” points out Praveen, a qualified physical fitness trainer who
imparts training in a number of gyms in the city besides giving special training
sessions to the officers and personnel at North Central Railway in Subedarganj.
Today, gym has become a lifestyle concept that blends fashion and music with
working out, where upwardly mobile Allahabadis flock to turn hip, cool and
sophisticated, he adds.
Says Suman Bhutani, a housewife, “In this age
of customer focus, every gym is distinguished by its choice of music channels
and aerobic classes conducted to a certain music genre.” She adds, “The music is
an important element as it keeps me motivated and gets me going, especially when
I’m drained.” Suman, a regular gym-goer, is accompanied by her five-year-old
daughter Mehak who performs light exercises as per the advice of the
trainers.
*Motivation is the key. Regardless of the aim, having the
right attitude also matters. It is important to enjoy your
exercise.
*Maintain a record of your exercises so that you can refer to
them in future as well.
*Try to keep a steady eating routine. It will throw
your body off if you skip a meal and starve yourself only to stuff your stomach
with food later.
*If you are already skinny and simply don’t have the
abdominal muscles that you want, passively exercising while doing other things
can help a great deal. If you spend a long time in a sitting position, try
continuously clenching your stomach you could be surprised at its
effectiveness.
*Always try stress relieving activities, such as yoga or
meditation as built-up stress, can increase your
weight.
*Some exercises are not recommended for people with
lower back problems.
*Focusing solely on abs can produce an imbalance in
the body and may cause back problems. As with any exercise programme, consult
your doctor before making major changes in your workout routine.
*Don’t
starve yourself. But don’t eat lot of fibres as it acts like a mild laxative. It
can also cause some gas and might result in digestive problems too.
*Avoid
eating high sugar snacks and instead eat healthy, low calorie snacks. *A good
way to prevent unhealthy snacking is to write down everything you eat in the
day.
*Never ignore warm up exercises or you may land yourself with pulled
muscles.

Webber proves fitness

admin — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 01:16:53 +0000

Mark Webber removed nagging doubts over his fitness by completing 83 laps of Wednesday’s test session at Jerez.
Just under three months after breaking his right leg, Webber was in the cockpit of the new Red Bull that was unveiled on Monday.
The 32-year-old Australian, who continues to walk with a pronounced limp, was second fastest of those drivers running the ‘09 cars with a best time of one minute 21.321 seconds, just over half a second down on Heikki Kovalainen in his McLaren.
“There were a lot of questions going into today and I answered them,” said Webber after a trouble-free day for himself and the car.
“From my point of view, it all went better than expected, and to do over a race distance on my first day back in the cockpit, with several weeks to go to Melbourne, is a good thing.”
Kovalainen completed 110 laps as the team focused on the KERS device.
However, McLaren opted not to use the high-downforce 2009-spec rear wing, and instead ran a modified 2008 version, giving Kovalainen a time of 1min 20.799secs.
Kazuki Nakajima clocked up 125 laps in his Williams, finishing narrowly behind Webber, with Renault’s Nelson Piquet Jnr again bringing up the rear with 1:21.908.
Piquet Jnr managed just 49 laps due to a technical issue during the afternoon.
The fastest time of the day again belonged to Sebastien Buemi of Toro Rosso, just over three seconds quicker than Kovalainen, albeit in a predominantly ‘08 car.

Northeast Iowa Food & Fitness Initiative seeking proposals in …

admin — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 09:30:49 +0000

The Northeast Iowa Food and Fitness Initiative (FFI) has announced it is seeking requests for activities to support and build on its efforts. This initiative is about people working together to create vibrant communities where the healthy choice is the easy choice.
This work began in April 2007 when the W.K. Kellogg Foundation selected Northeast Iowa as one of nine communities locations across the country to become models of community change. Each project received a planning grant and for the past two years FFI has assessed this region’s access to food and places to be active and play.
Two years of intensive community participation and planning have helped Northeast Iowa identify three strategies to improve food and fitness environments through policy and system change. Those strategies include:
• Ensure that school district policies and practices support healthy living of children, families and community members.
• Ensure that fresh, local, healthy food is available and affordable in all communities, neighborhoods and institutions.
• Ensure that communities have a built environment that supports abundant opportunities for physical activity and play.
The FFI regional planning team is now developing a community action plan based on these strategies. The plan will be submitted to the W.K. Kellogg Foundation this summer for implementation support and will be based on the activities selected through the Request for Activities (RFA) process.
Citizens representing any 501(c)3 organization/agency, educational or governmental institution in Northeast Iowa may submit an RFA. Northeast Iowa is defined as the counties of Allamakee, Clayton, Fayette, Howard, and Winneshiek. The NE Iowa Food and Fitness Initiative strongly encourages involvement and collaboration between representatives of the farming community, schools, active living work, healthcare, and food-based businesses in the proposal process.
Proposal forms, instructions and criteria for the RFA can be found at the Food and Fitness Initiative website (www.iowafoodandfitness.org). A one- to two-page concept paper and proposed budget must be submitted by 4:30 p.m., April 1, 2009 to the Iowa State University Extension, Winneshiek County office. Electronic copies are encouraged and may be sent via email.
Funding of activities may be for up to two years, beginning October 1, 2009. Budgets must demonstrate a 25% match in leveraging of other funds (cash and/or in-kind match). Proposals may range between $1,000 and $50,000.
All proposals will be screened and scored by the NE Iowa FFI Regional Team and its work groups. All applicants will be notified in June 2009 if their proposal will be included in the FFI Community Action Plan application sent to the W.K. Kellogg Foundation.
Proposals should demonstrate how the proposed work will build on the NE Iowa FFI Regional Team’s efforts or other northeast Iowa projects to create the initiative’s vision: “For Northeast Iowa to be a unique place where all residents and guests experience, celebrate and promote healthy locally grown food with abundant opportunities for physical activity and play EVERY DAY. Healthier people make stronger families and vibrant communities.”
Activities that support or complement the work of the Regional Team work groups are encouraged. These groups are: School Work Group, Youth Work Group, Northeast Iowa Food and Farm (NIFF) Coalition, Built Environment Work Group, Communication Work Group, Community Health Work Group, and Inclusive Team Work Group. To learn about their work go to http://www.extension.iastate.edu/allamakee/info/rtworkgroups.htm or contact co-conveners Brenda Ranum or Ann Mansfield.
Additional information and complete instructions can be downloaded from www.iowafoodandfitness.org or obtained from the ISU County Extension offices in Cresco, Elkader, Waukon, Fayette, and Decorah. The NE Iowa FFI co-conveners, Brenda Ranum or Ann Mansfield, can be reached at ISU Extension – Winneshiek County, Decorah, (563)382-2949.