[title subtitle=”WORDS and IMAGES Words and images courtesy Alicia Agent, Manager Marketing Communications, Baptist Health – Fort Smith”][/title]
How to find the time to reach your health goals in the new year
Whether it’s inches, pounds or pant sizes, we all have ways to measure our success when it comes to health and weight loss. But Don Ridgley, manager of Marvin Altman Fitness Center at Baptist Health-Fort Smith, says when it comes to reaching your health goals the best unit of measurement is time.
“Just do the time,” Don said. “Don’t worry as much about a number on a scale. Just look at your calendar and create an exercise schedule that fits your life.”
Don says exercise doesn’t have to take place in the gym. Any form of activity that elevates your heart rate, such as walking, running or exercises that use your own body weight like push-ups, are a great way to incorporate activity into your routine. The most important part is setting an attainable goal with a realistic schedule so you can stick to it.
He recommends at least three days a week of aerobic activity and strength training to improve cardiovascular and bone health as you age. The type of workout isn’t as important, Don says. Just find something you enjoy and will make time for. Wearable health and fitness devices and mobile apps are great ways to track your progress and stay motivated.
Don earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Arkansas Tech University in Wellness Management and has been with Marvin Altman Fitness Center for twenty-five years. He and a team of athletic trainers and fitness instructors are able to customize individual workouts for members, as well as lead classes for a wide variety of interests. Some of the classes include senior chair yoga, Pilates, circuit training, water aerobics, and SEALFIT boot camp.
One of the newer classes, POUND,is taught by certified fitness instructor Susan Coon. The class is a combination of cardio and strength training that utilizes exhilarating music and lightweight drumsticks. Susan added it to the curriculum as a way to stay current with changing fitness trends.
“Fitness has changed so much over the last several years,” she said. “People aren’t just members of one gym anymore. They’re seeking new levels of fun and fitness, so it’s important for us as fitness instructors to continue our education so we can provide a safe, exciting and effective workout.”
Susan has been a fitness instructor at Marvin Altman Fitness Center for thirty years, but her POUND class is celebrating a year of staying physically and mentally fit this month. She takes pride in helping participants find their inner “rock star,” as the class transforms drumming into an exhilarating workout and live concert, according to Susan.
“It’s the best workout in the shortest amount of time,” she said. “Each song is 2-4 minutes and you’re working your brain and your body, improving your focus and relieving stress. We get loud and have fun. It’s addicting.”
In addition to fitness classes for all levels, the fitness center also offers an indoor swimming pool, a sauna and a “Kid Zone” which is free to members. The fitness center offers a variety of student, professional and military discounts. It also partners with insurance companies who offer free or discounted gym memberships to make exercise and a healthy lifestyle more accessible to those in the River Valley.
Even if your schedule doesn’t always allow for one of the many daytime or evening classes offered at the fitness center, Don says taking a walk outside or on their indoor track is a good way to stick to your commitment.
“It’s okay to be flexible in your routine,” he said. “If you worked out for 30 minutes at the gym on Monday, but can’t make it Wednesday, it’s fine. Find another activity that you can fit into your day so that you’re staying on track.”
Don suggests putting your workout on your calendar like you would a doctor’s appointment, a meeting at work, or lunch with a friend. Make it a priority and make time for yourself.
“Your ultimate goal should be better health and a better quality of life as you age and the best way to do that is by staying active,” Don said. “By doing so, you’ll be able to recover better from illness and injury and reap the benefits of good health later in life.”
To learn more about Marvin Altman Fitness Center’s amenities or to set up a tour, call (479) 441-5469.
Marvin Altman Fitness Center
810 Lexington Avenue, Fort Smith, AR 72901
479-441-5469
baptist-health.com
