Martin Memorial Rehabilitation, Fitness Staffs Work Together to Benefit Patients

At Martin Memorial Health Systems, staff from our rehabilitation, and health and fitness departments work together to offer custom designed programs that can help patients reach their goals.

Rehabilitation services provide physical, occupational and speech therapy patients with an environment to heal. Acute pain can be debilitating and often the diagnosis can be life changing. The rehab team is there for people to educate themselves regarding conditions and to learn how to manage, cope and heal from physical pain and many other diagnoses.

The first step to receiving care through the rehab department is to obtain a prescription from the doctor. There are seven rehab facilities to choose from, extending from Hobe Sound to St. Lucie West. The Hospital South and Treasure Coast facilities both offer aquatic therapy in therapeutic heated pools. Our rehab facilities offer specialized treatment ranging from orthopedic certifications, lymphedema, watsu, myofascial release and balance training.

Upon completion of the therapy treatments, patients are offered a referral to health and fitness. A variety of classes are offered through health and fitness facilities, including gentle arthritis and aerobic classes in the water (which can be found at the Treasure Coast site), as well as zumba, yoga and step classes that are offered in a large studio environment. Physical and occupational therapists often refer patients to health and fitness and encourage them to continue with an exercise program.

Health and fitness professionals include licensed massage therapists and licensed personal trainers. Therapeutic massage is offered through health and fitness to maintain gains from therapy. Massage is the manipulation of superficial layers of muscle and connective tissue to enhance the function and promote relaxation and well-being.

A personal trainer is someone who makes sure a person is doing exercises correctly, as well as choosing or progressing an appropriate exercise regime. The scope of practice for a personal trainer is to enhance the components of fitness for the general, healthy population. The added touch of a professional to progress your program is very beneficial.

Appointments are available with licensed massage therapists, personal trainers and/or exercise physiologists to further progress an individual’s program. Our medical fitness facilities offer a variety of services to accommodate individual needs that can help you design a program to maintain health.

--Tara Marie Anstensen
Martin Memorial Rehabilitation Services

Looking to Enhance Your Fitness? Tai Chi May Help Bring You Into Balance

I have been working in the fitness industry for many years. I would rather not give you the exact number because then the cat will be out of the bag as to how old I am. Let’s put it this way: When I taught my first aerobics class, we were wearing leg warmers, headbands and thong leotards. Thank goodness those thong leotards have been retired into the “what were they thinking category.”

I have always been quite resistant to learning and teaching classes such as yoga and tai chi. I must admit, that I have always been a diehard cardio/strength/drill sergeant type fitness instructor. I am the personal trainer that has you doing pushups as well as pushing you to get that one last repetition in when you want to give it up. So as the catch phrase goes, I decided to “step out of my comfort zone” and learn something completely different.

Recently, I had the opportunity to take a weekend-long tai chi instructor/leader workshop led by master instructor Pat Lawson.

There, I learned that tai chi is “literally translated as ‘grand ultimate exercise.’ Tai chi is a gentle, slow-motion exercise that originated from ancient China.” You may have seen people in parks or on beaches moving in slow motion, and wondered what they were doing and why they were doing it. Odds are they were doing tai chi, which is surprisingly energizing and calming.

It is martial arts in slow motion and is especially beneficial to health. One of its major characteristics is control of movement. It is important to move slowly and gently in order to generate internal strength.

I have been learning the Sun style of tai chi. There are several styles, but this one in particular has been proven to help people who suffer with arthritis. It is called Tai Chi for Health which was designed in 1997 by Dr. Paul Lam, MD. There are 12 basic movements to this style and I am “slowly” learning how to master them. “Waving Hands in the Clouds” has been a challenging movement to master. However, with practice, patience and persistence, the moves will start to flow together and then you are left with a wonderful sense of calm and life energy known as the qi (chi).

Tai chi offers another component to the fitness wheel, which is balance. Balance as in mind, body and spirit, and also physical balance. Maintaining body balance will improve muscular strength, which will help to minimize potential falls.

Martin Memorial Health and Fitness offers an array of tai chi classes at most of our centers. If you would like to participate in a new way of improving your fitness, visit our website at mmhs.com and click on the Health and Fitness button to find class schedules. You can find me at the beginner class every Monday afternoon.

--Jane Reynolds
Health and Fitness Technician
Hospital South Health and Fitness

Martin Memorial’s Fit to Lose Program Can Help You Get Fit This Summer

You have made the commitment to finally lose those extra pounds and promise to stick with an exercise program. The most difficult part of making the commitment is sticking to it. I have been there and I am quite sure you have been there too. We all start out with great expectations and then somewhere down the road we seem to slip back into our old behavior patterns. The key to your success is to create new behavior.

The first task on your journey to creating new behavior patterns is to “clean up your environment.” It starts right in your kitchen and pantry. If you have made the commitment to lose weight and exercise, this task is crucial to your success.

Take it from me, it really works. I must admit, this first step can be difficult.
When you get home today, take a large trash bag and just get to it. I want you to feel empowered with this first and most important step. Say goodbye to the foods that have held you hostage. I still remember the day I decided to do this. As I was tossing processed food away (which I donated to a food pantry), I became angry at the food companies for putting so many unhealthy ingredients in my food. Look at the labels. Look at the unhealthy amounts of sodium that you have been putting into your body. I remember feeling so energized by this exercise. You can do this and once it is completed, you have a clean slate and are ready to begin.

Now that you have tackled your food environment, your next leap will be to change the way you feel about following a regular exercise program. The key again is to adopt the frame of mind that “this is a new way of life.” This is how you want to live your life.

Your healthy body will begin to crave movement. Exercise does not have to be painful or boring. Exercise does not always have to involve going to the fitness center. Exercise is simply moving your body for 30 minutes or more per day. You may want to exercise at the fitness center three days per week and then on the alternate days, go for a bike ride, walk or run outdoors. You might try tennis, swimming or kayaking.

The Fit to Lose program at Martin Memorial is here to guide you and help you, but ultimately YOU are in control. We are here to motivate you and provide the tools to help you succeed.

Here are some helpful tips that will get you started on the path to creating new behavior patterns. Making small changes in your diet and lifestyle can improve your health as well as trim your waist line.

• Start each day with a nutrient-rich breakfast.
• Strive for 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Fatigue leads to overeating.
• Eat your meals seated at a table and try to have your meals with family, friends or your partner.
• Use a smaller plate to “trick” your mind. Fill up that smaller plate!
• Avoid second helpings and family-style serving.
• Choose low-fat dairy products.
• Plan ahead! Have healthy foods at your disposal. Stock up with fresh fruits and veggies. If you have been skipping breakfast because you don’t have time in the morning, then get everything ready the night before. Leave your bowl, spoon and cereal out. All you have to do is get the fat-free milk out of the fridge.
• If you are planning on working out after work, pack your gym bag the night before and take it to work. No need to stop at home and take the chance of getting all comfy on the sofa.

The Fit to Lose program begins June 28 at each of Martin Memorial’s six health and fitness centers. The 12-week summer weight loss challenge is available for adults and children ages 8 and up. It features information and tips on making productive lifestyle changes, weekly weigh-ins, cholesterol and glucose testing, individualized exercise programs designed by certified personal trainers and much more.

Please be realistic with your weight loss and exercise goals, because it takes 30 days to create new habits. Good luck!

--Jane Reynolds
Health and Fitness Technician
Hospital South Health and Fitness

“The Starting Line” Runners Cross the Finish Line in Impressive Fashion

Editor’s Note: We received this update about “The Starting Line” program from Nancy Aldrich, site supervisor of the Martin Memorial Palm City Health and Fitness Center, following the annual Run for the Pineapple 5K.

You can read the original blog entry from Jane Reynolds here: http://martinmemorialhousecall.blogspot.com/2010/05/thanks-to-starting-line-new-runners-are.html

“The annual Run for the Pineapple 5K on Memorial Day was the finale of our 12-week ‘The Starting Line’ program for new runners. Overall we feel it was a great success. We began with 27 runners in the first week and still had 20 runners at the end of the program. Everyone did incredibly well for their first 5K and had a great time. Our runners ranged in age from 12 to 54. Our first male finisher was John Ryll at 26:13.1. Our first female finisher was Nicole Allesandrello at 26:17.5. Nicole’s finishing time was good enough for third place in the female 25-29 division. Not a bad first race ever when you go home with a medal!

This program was administered by a team of experienced runners and coaches comprised of Martin Memorial personal trainers and member volunteers. One of the coaches and a member of Palm City Health and Fitness, Rex Noble, voluntarily conducted additional weekly speed work sessions on Thursdays at 5:30 a.m. for some of the more dedicated trainees. Nicole Allesandrello was one of the Thursday morning regulars. Obviously it paid off!

Our runners really enjoyed the program, are looking forward to participating in more races in the area, and possibly participating in another running program at Martin Memorial Health and Fitness in the fall to build on what they’ve started.”

Putting the “Medical” in Medical Fitness Pays Dividends for Two Center Members

Two recent events that occurred at Martin Memorial Hospital South Health and Fitness confirmed to me just how beneficial our medical fitness program can be for members.

On a Friday in January the health and fitness center was busy with people working out. Treadmills were humming, bikes were pedaling, elliptical machines were jamming and things were running like a well-oiled machine.

Until we heard a scream.

One of our members collapsed to the floor with a cardiac event. Fortunately, we had been trained for just such a scenario and immediately knew what to do. Our skills were put to the test and we passed with flying colors.

We initiated the 911 call and proceeded with our lifesaving skills. We used our automated external defibrillator (AED) and our CPR skills until the paramedics arrived. The end result is that we were able to save a life. The gentleman is doing fine now after having a defibrillator and pacemaker put in, and is actually back working out at our center. He looks and feels great!

About a month after that, we were faced with another member having heart issues. He had just completed his cardiovascular exercise and asked a question about his target heart rate. Then he told us that he was not working even close to his range but had a “chest pain.” Again, we took action. Vitals were taken and he was trying to convince us that he was fine.

After assessing his vitals and reviewing his health history, we called the paramedics. He was admitted and had a cardiac catheterization which showed a 90 percent blockage. The doctors put in a stent and he now has an unclogged artery. If it had not been detected, he could have had a major heart attack. Once again, this is where Martin Memorial Health and Fitness makes a difference!

We are the only medically directed fitness center on the Treasure Coast with six convenient locations. All of our staff must meet strict standards and possess advanced fitness certifications. All staff must also maintain a current certificate in automated external defibrillation (AED) and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

Our fitness center members range from students to seniors, and our exercise programs are designed to accommodate all fitness levels. And as these two situations proved, it can be good to know that the health and fitness staff are trained for whatever situations may arise.

--Jane Reynolds
Health and Fitness Technician
Hospital South Health and Fitness

Aquatic Therapy Provides Benefits for the Mind and Spirit, as Well as the Body

My husband and I have been overweight most of our adult lives. Somewhere along the way, after numerous yo-yo diets and exercise plans, I think we just gave up. We haven’t even thought of exercising in many years. We were at the point where it seemed unrealistic that we would ever be healthy, able to exercise or to move much at all without pain and shortness of breath.

But all that changed recently. As part of the preparation for bariatric surgery at Martin Memorial, we are enrolled in a 26-week weight-loss management program. Basically, we meet with a nutritional counselor to learn how and what to eat as part of a life-long commitment to being healthy. We also have access to the fitness centers and personal trainer sessions.

Honestly, the word gym doesn’t exist in my vocabulary. Sure I’ve been there before – about 10 years ago, maybe longer – but it’s a distant memory. I even have a treadmill, a bicycle, a ski machine and an ab roller at my house. The treadmill is great to hang coats on by the way! At this weight, I’m terrified to try to exercise because I think my heart would give up after a few steps on a stair climber. My husband feels the same way – as do most overweight people I’ve met.

Despite those fears, we recently had our first session with a personal trainer. No, we didn’t keel over on the treadmill; in fact, we didn’t even enter that part of the gym. Instead, we went to aquatic therapy offered by Martin Memorial.

We put on our bathing suits – the ones we had bought for our cruise last year, but of course never dared to wear them. The training pool was perfectly warm and not too deep. Our trainer, Nicole was a pleasant, skilled professional who understood our special needs.

She made it fun as she instructed us on how to do simple moves that would get our bodies moving again. We felt the movements, but they didn’t hurt because the water doesn’t put a strain on your body, unlike a machine. Thank goodness, because these knees can’t handle any more strain. We trained for about half an hour, then we kept going by ourselves. We even spent a few minutes in the hot tub – we deserved it after all our hard work. Our last half hour was spent in the large pool doing laps and just playing around like kids.

My husband and I felt young again – we even forgot that we were overweight. The water has an amazing effect on the body. I felt like I was weightless, yet strong and powerful. We were superheroes! The pool was therapeutic – for more than our bodies. All our stress just floated away and we were at peace with ourselves and each other. It truly was therapy for the mind, body and spirit.

--Landy Tiffany
Marketing Communications Coordinator

Sticking to Those New Year’s Resolutions? Or Are You Making Lifestyle Changes?

It’s that time of year again when we all resolve to get back in shape or just take off those few extra pounds we put on during the holidays.

I have a better idea.

Why not resolve to make fitness and healthy eating a lifestyle change. Your mindset is the key to success. This is not for the short run, this is a lifestyle change. If you’re new to working out or if it has been awhile, here are a few simple rules to help you get started.

· Watch your food intake (calories in/calories out). It all sounds so simple but we all tend to underestimate our food intake and overestimate our exercise output. A simple rule of thumb is that we typically burn about 100 calories per one mile of walking. Keep a food diary and really think before you take that slice of pizza.

· Absolutely do resistance training and cardio workouts.

· Work with a personal trainer at least at the beginning. At Martin Memorial Health and Fitness, we offer a complimentary training session to get started on the right path.

· Set realistic goals for yourself. A perfect example of a short term and realistic goal is to sign up for a 5K walk/run. As a matter of fact, we have the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure on January 30 in West Palm Beach. Get together with friends and sign up to walk or run. If you are an exercise newbie, I recommend walking. What a great way to start off your New Year!

· Mix it up! Zumba, yoga, pilates, low-impact aerobics, biking, boot camp, stationary bikes, elliptical, rowing, treadmills, strength training, water aerobics! The list goes on and on. We must always challenge ourselves and our bodies. If you change up your routine, you will most likely stick to your fitness program.

· Make exercise a priority. Exercise should be scheduled into your day. You only need 30 minutes a day to make a difference.

In closing, please be patient. Your body will respond to this new way of life in no time at all. I wish you all a very happy and healthy 2010.

--Jane Reynolds
Health and Fitness Technician
Hospital South Health and Fitness

Grand Opening to be Held at St. Lucie West Health and Fitness Center

The new Martin Memorial St. Lucie West Health and Fitness Center will celebrate with a grand opening for the community on Thursday, Jan. 14.

The public is invited to visit the facility from 5:30 a.m. until 7:30 p.m. to see what the fitness center has to offer. There will also be special savings available for membership plans and sessions with personal trainers.

Located at 582 N.W. University Blvd., Suite 350 in St. Lucie West, the center has a wide variety of both innovative new fitness equipment and traditional cardiovascular and strength training equipment.

The new facility at St. Lucie West features something no other fitness center across the Treasure Coast has – Kinesis. This advanced equipment offers a unique fitness experience by taking what the body does naturally and adding resistance. There are also special classes that focus on tennis and golf, allowing members to improve their fitness levels and work on their games at the same time. And the facility offers Silver Sneakers classes as well.

Like Martin Memorial’s other fitness centers, the St. Lucie West location provides medically directed fitness services that members have grown accustomed to receiving. That includes a full line of cardiovascular and strength equipment, child care, massage, lockers and shower facilities. There are also fitness classes designed for people with specific ailments such as diabetes, cancer and cardiac rehabilitation.

The St. Lucie West Health and Fitness Center opened at its permanent facility on Nov. 3, 2009. The fitness center was relocated to a temporary location in October 2008, in order to make room for a freestanding emergency department at Martin Memorial’s St. Lucie West facility.

For more information or to sign up for Kinesis classes, please call (772) 785-5522.

Want a Healthier You in 2010? Making Small Changes Can Have Huge Benefits

So, another year has flown by and believe it or not it’s not just a new year but a new decade. Where does time go? I reflect back on my life ten years ago and it’s amazing how much different life was then. But one thing remains the same: my commitment to wellness, including eating healthy and exercising.

However, it wasn’t always this way but through lifestyle changes I made it happen. So, my goal for you this year is not to make another resolution to go on a diet, but to look for ways to make lifestyle changes happen.

Diets are only good if it teaches you behavioral modification, which involves eating healthy and exercising. I hear it every day: “I lost 20 pounds following this diet but I gained it all back.” My first question back is, “Did you go off the diet or stop exercising?” You can’t expect to maintain your weight loss if you go back to your old ways. After all, how did you put the weight on in the first place?

In our minds we think of diets as a short term intervention. But we need to change that mindset. Think of how you can make healthier changes. Maybe you reduce your eating out and make healthier meals at home or brown bag your lunch. Whatever healthy changes you make will only lead you in the right direction. Remember, nothing happens overnight and there is no right or wrong.

Lifestyle changes are goals that we work towards. Chances are if we dive straight in then we will be overwhelmed and fail. But if we incorporate changes more slowly, then we can work them into our lifestyles. For starters, each week set a time and day to exercise and put them into your appointment book. Then gradually increase the days to fit them into your schedule.

This year make a resolution to your own wellness – whatever might be. The Martin Memorial Center for Health and Healing offers individual and group weight-management programs, smoking-cessation programs and diabetes education. Make a commitment to yourself. Call our office at (772) 223-4916 for more information.

-- Beth St.Louis MS, RD, LD/N
Program Dietitian, Center for Health and Healing

Martin Memorial Set to Open Fitness Center at Port St. Lucie Community Center

Martin Memorial will officially open its new fitness facility in the Port St. Lucie Community Center on Jan. 7 at 6 a.m.

The Martin Memorial Health and Fitness Center at Port St. Lucie Community Center is located at 2195 S.E. Airoso Blvd. It will offer a full line of cardiovascular and strength equipment, personal training and massage therapy at this new location.

Martin Memorial operates six medically-directed health and fitness centers from St. Lucie West to Hobe Sound, where members have access to highly trained staff dedicated to improving and sustaining individual well-being through fitness. That includes programs designed to improve disease management and to integrate clinical care. Members can receive medical fitness profiles that will help them identify potential problems and highlight areas that can be worked through with assistance from Martin Memorial’s clinically trained personnel.

A grand opening will take place this month. For more information on the facility, please call (772) 223-4966.

Looking for Something to Help With Arthritis Pain? Hit the Gym and Exercise

Research from the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, The Arthritis Foundation, as well as others, recommend that people with arthritis exercise.

Studies have shown that exercise helps people with arthritis in many ways. Exercise reduces joint pain and stiffness and helps increase flexibility, cardiovascular fitness and muscular strength. Other added benefits include weight reduction, improved sense of well being and sounder sleeping.

So let’s get started! If this is all new to you, the best way to begin is to begin slowly. It is always recommended that before you start any exercise program, you consult with your doctor.

Martin Memorial Health and Fitness will conduct a health history and pre-screening as well as seeking clearance from your physician before starting any exercise program.

It is proven through research that exercise does help manage the pain and stiffness that accompany arthritis. I also conducted some informal interviews with a few of our members at Martin Memorial Health and Fitness and here’s what they had to say.

Carolyn Jensen says she’s been living with arthritis, which runs in her family, for 20 years. Over the years it has gotten worse but she says, “If I don’t exercise, I don’t feel as fit and energetic and I feel stiff.” Carolyn’s fitness regimen includes stretching before and after tennis which she plays four times per week and works out at our gym at least two times per week.

Raymond Snyder says he has arthritis “from head to toe.” He’s been living with it for about 20 years. By the way, Raymond is proud to say he’s 90 years young. He adds that exercise “helps him more than any other form of treatment.” Ray has just returned to Florida and says “after being here just a couple of times, he feels better,” and “I get stiff if I don’t come to the gym. All I can say is that I’m OK for the whole day when I exercise.”

Doug Sisco has the early signs of arthritis in his knee and knuckles and says, “If I don’t exercise, I get more pains and aches.” Dolly Wilson has had arthritis for 10 years and says, “pool exercise helps with the reduction of pain.”

The Arthritis Foundation recommends starting slowly with flexibility exercises which are basically stretching exercises that will improve your range of motion and help with daily activities. They also recommend water exercise since it reduces stress on your hips, knees and spine.

At Martin Memorial Health and Fitness, we offer a variety of classes which include water exercise, Thai chi, yoga, pilates, low impact aerobics and stretch. Along with classes, we encourage you to start slowly with strength training and cardiovascular exercise. We’re here to help you get started and on your way to a more pain free lifestyle.

--Jane Reynolds
Health and Fitness Technician
Hospital South Health and Fitness

Martin Memorial to Open New Health and Fitness Center in St. Lucie West on Nov. 3

The Martin Memorial St. Lucie West Health and Fitness Center will be opening at a permanent facility on Nov. 3. The fitness center was relocated to a temporary location in October 2008, in order to make room for a freestanding emergency department at Martin Memorial’s St. Lucie West facility.

On Oct. 29 at 2 p.m., the health and fitness center’s temporary facility will close. The new, permanent location will open Nov. 3 at 5:30 a.m., located at 582 N.W. University Blvd., Suite 350. In the interim period between the temporary site closing and the new facility opening, St. Lucie West members are invited to utilize one of Martin Memorial’s four other health and fitness locations: Jensen Beach, Palm City, South Stuart or Hobe Sound.

The new facility at St. Lucie West will also feature something no other fitness center across the Treasure Coast has – Kinesis. This innovative piece of equipment offers a unique fitness experience by taking what the body does naturally and adding resistance. There will also be special classes that focus on tennis and golf, allowing members to improve their fitness levels and work on their games at the same time.

The new location will continue to provide medically directed fitness services that members have grown accustomed to receiving. That includes a full line of cardiovascular and strength equipment, child care, massage, lockers and shower facilities. There are also fitness classes designed for people with specific ailments such as diabetes, cancer and cardiac rehabilitation.

Members of the public are invited to tour our facility when it opens on Nov. 3. They can also find more information or sign up for Kinesis classes by calling (772) 785-5522.

Here's Something Scary: Those Halloween Treats Will Play Tricks With Your Fitness

It is almost time for Halloween, so once again this is a good time to review the cold, hard facts about how long you'll need to jump, walk or run to burn off your favorite devilish little darlings.

Sparkpeople.com did some research on how much damage 10 tiny treats really do. They took a sampling of 10 snack-sized treats – everything from Snickers, Tootsie Rolls, candy corn, Butterfinger, Peanut M&M's and more. The number of calories totaled: 775! Remember, that's just 10 pieces.

What does this mean in terms of calorie expenditure? Sparkpeople.com's fitness tracker calculated a 150-pound woman performing jumping jacks at a rate of one per second will burn 10 calories per minute. She'll need to perform jumping jacks for one hour and 18 minutes. That's a lot of jumping, and that's a fact jack!

If jumping is not your choice of exercise, you may want to go for a walk – a very long walk. A 7.75 mile walk will burn off those 10 tiny treats. Remember, we generally burn 100 calories for each mile of walking at a moderate pace.

Now for the good news. If you do choose to indulge this Halloween, and I'm quite sure I will, Diet.com did some research to find the top Halloween candy for healthy people. The best treats are Junior Mints, 3 Musketeers and Peanut M&M's.

I am not advocating that you go out and eat an entire bag of Junior Mints, but it is comforting to know they actually have some nutritional value, since Junior Mints are made with dark chocolate!

So enjoy a few treats smartly and you won't have to play any tricks to get your body back in shape. Happy Halloween!

--Jane Reynolds
Health and Fitness Technician
Hospital South Health and Fitness

Forever Young at 80-Plus, Thanks in Part to Staying Active and Physically Fit

Joe and Marie Varone have been married for 58 years and are “regulars” at Martin Memorial Health and Fitness South.

When the Varones retired to Stuart 23 years ago, they knew they wanted and needed to stay in shape. They led very active lives in New York. They both recall being active as children playing street games like kick the can and stick ball – and they are very quick to point out their battle scars from playing as children. As adults, Marie coached CYO basketball and baseball while Joe became a physical education educator in New York.

Their lives continue to be active. You’ll find them at least three to four times per week at our health and fitness center. Marie’s motivation for staying in shape at 80 years young is her children and grandchildren. You’ll also find Marie volunteering on Martin Memorial’s obstetrics floor, where she says she has the best job: “I get to play with the babies.” Marie says, “We may not be wealthy but we’re happy and healthy.”

Marie’s fitness regimen includes cardiovascular exercise on the stationary bike and treadmill along with a strength training routine using machines and free weights. She also plays golf three times per week.

At 83, Joe’s main motivation for keeping in shape is injury prevention and, as he puts it, “staying alive.” Joe’s fitness regimen includes lots of stretching, which he said has saved him from injuries, along with cardiovascular exercise on the stationary bike and treadmill, and strength training.

Both Marie and Joe urge everyone to remain active, to eat well and to see a doctor on a regular basis. Each urges us all to take advantage of our excellent medical system. Joe and Marie invite everyone to Martin Memorial Health and Fitness, and come join the fun and stay healthy!

--Jane Reynolds

Health and Fitness Technician

Hospital South Health and Fitness

Back to School Means Getting Back to Fitness for Parents and Their Families

Have you seen the commercial with the dad who cannot contain his excitement while shopping for school supplies? I laugh out loud every time I see it. The expression on the kid’s faces are priceless too. They know the time has arrived.

Oh yes, it’s back to school. It is also the time when families get back to routines, sensible eating, early bedtimes and most important (at least I think it is) back to exercise routines.

If you have slipped from your exercise routine this summer, this is a perfect opportunity to recharge and recommit! Structure, schedules and chaos are all part of the juggling act when the new school year begins. Back to school can be a bit overwhelming for families so it’s important to make exercise a priority.

Planning and preparation are the keys to success. I hope these tips help to motivate and energize you.

Plan Ahead: If you are going to the gym before the kids are up, (most gyms open 5:30am), set your sneakers and workout clothes out the night before.

Shorter Workouts: Squeezing in three 10-minute workouts throughout the day is just as effective as one continuous workout. Try increasing the intensity during the shorter work outs. Push yourself even harder since the time spent is less.

Consider a personal trainer: A trainer will motivate you and you’ll have the added accountability factor. As a personal trainer, I have many early morning clients. They sometimes come in reluctantly and tired but they always leave feeling energized and ready to face the day.

Get Creative: Don’t sit on the sidelines during soccer practice. Walk the perimeter of the field. You will still be able to watch your children and cheer them on.

Play like a child again: What better way to stay in shape and set a great example for your children? Break out the bikes and the roller blades and play with your children after school or after dinner.

Whatever you choose to do, do not wait until later to get back to your exercise routine. Remember, it’s never too late!

--Jane Reynolds
Health and Fitness Technician
Hospital South Health and Fitness

Health is Wealth In This Economy and Small Changes Can Make a Big Difference

We are all painfully aware of the downturn in the economy and most of us have had to adjust and “tighten our belts.” We live in a world where money is important, but we also know that you cannot put a price tag on good health.

Although there are circumstances beyond our control regarding certain health issues, we still do have the ability to change some things through exercise and diet.

I have had the pleasure and opportunity to help people make lifestyle changes through exercise and diet modifications. For example, Americans consume far too much salt in their diets. Sodium is an important factor in weight gain, high blood pressure and other critical aspects of health.

Sodium in the body “holds on” to water. This water adds weight and puts a strain on the heart, lungs, kidneys and just about every organ. Therefore, sodium intake is something that is controllable and does not cost a thing.

However, it is not always easy. For example, specifying “no salt please” at a restaurant does not guarantee a low sodium content. Just the other day my husband thought he was ordering a healthy meal. I quickly Googled the name of the restaurant chain and discovered his “healthy” meal contained 820 milligrams of sodium. As a point of reference, less than 2,000 milligrams is the maximum recommended daily allowance.

Along with diet modifications, exercise plays a key role in staying healthy. Maintaining and starting an exercise program will not solve every problem but it certainly lowers many health risks. It seems to me that our members must realize this because our enrollment remains strong and the level of activities at our centers remains high. I personally attribute this to the family atmosphere at our centers and our highly qualified staff.

Exercise is a good way of relieving the stress of finding a new job and coping with this economy. So while we cannot necessarily control the economy, we can take control of many aspects of our health through diet and exercise.

--Jane Reynolds
Health and Fitness Technician
Hospital South Health and Fitness

Even on Vacation, Staying Fit a Priority

Let’s face it, we live in paradise. Why would you want to take a vacation away from paradise?

I just needed to decompress and spend a week at home. Since I spend 40-plus hours a week at Martin Memorial South Health and Fitness and I am fortunate that my job requirement is to stay in shape, I did ponder how to keep up with my fitness regimen without visiting my work environment.

So I took it to the streets! I followed my own advice and started a walking program. (Thanks for all the shout outs on US 1 and Seabranch!)

Walking is great way to maintain the fitness level but does not replace visits to the gym. Boy was I sore after a week of just maintaining. The old muscles had forgotten what it was like to really work. It’s important to take a break from your fitness program but it’s just as important to resume your strength-training workouts at the gym. It goes back to the old expression: “Use it or lose it.”

The desire to maintain a fitness program while on vacation or getting away from a routine is tricky especially when you toss into the mix a lot of baking bread and baking at the beach.
When I returned to the fitness center I was refreshed and ready to get back to the business of helping members reach their fitness goals.

And speaking of goals, the highlight of my spring vacation was watching my daughter, Abby, walk across the stage to receive her college degree from Florida State University. Instead of me walking, I watched with pride as my daughter walked.

--Jane Reynolds
Health and Fitness Technician
Hospital South Health and Fitness

Let’s Go Girls! Group Puts Fun Into Fitness

It’s Monday morning again and I know I can count on my most dedicated group of women to get me going!! That’s right: these ladies motivate me every Monday, Wednesday and Friday morning from 8-9 a.m. Exercising for this group is a way of life.

“So what motivates you to get here bright and early most days of the week to exercise,” I asked.

Their answers were as diverse as the women in the class: We feel great when we are finished; it helps me keep my weight off; it gets my day started; it’s my “warm- up” before tennis; it keeps my joints feeling better; it’s part of my life; I always feel more energized. I could go on and on, but these are just some of the reasons why my girls show up faithfully.

I am here to tell you that my girls really do have to “fit” exercise into their schedules. A majority of them are retired and are busier now than they were in their pre-retirement years. They play golf and tennis, provide charity work, sit on planning committees, do Meals on Wheels deliveries and all sorts of other activities. And then there’s Stacy – a full-time student and mother of three little ones. She fits exercise into this busy schedule three to five days per week. She studies while she walks on the treadmill and then joins the class.

My girls come from all walks of life. The common point is that each one considers exercise to part of the day not an “add on.” Exercise routines generally start as work but quickly become part of the day and for many a “fun” part of their lives. I want to be like these girls when I grow up!

--Jane Reynolds
Health and Fitness Technician
Hospital South Health and Fitness

Martin Memorial Celebrates Medical Fitness Week With Open Houses April 23

Going to a fitness center for some people simply means working out to get fit or lose weight. But for people who utilize a medical fitness facility, the emphasis is placed on overall health rather than just looking good in front of a mirror.

In 2008, Martin Memorial enhanced the level of services at its health and fitness centers by implementing medical fitness standards and guidelines. Medical fitness centers generally provide a higher level of medical resources and monitoring of health conditions than traditional fitness centers.

This week, the Martin Memorial Health and Fitness Centers are celebrating Medical Fitness Week, a national initiative created to promote an increase in physical activity levels in all ages and to highlight the medical fitness difference.

On April 23, an open house will be held at all five Martin Memorial Health and Fitness Center locations, featuring information on medical fitness, opportunities for reduced membership fees and tours of the facilities. Non-members who join with the health and fitness centers during this week and pay in full will receive $50 off any membership six months or longer; non-members who sign up with a payment plan can waive the enrollment fee.

Healthy snacks will be available from 7-11 a.m. and from 4-7 p.m. Martin Memorial has fitness centers located in Hobe Sound, south Stuart, Palm City, Jensen Beach and St. Lucie West. For more information, call (772) 781-2722 or visit mmhs.com for addresses and directions to specific centers.

“We are excited to provide medical fitness to residents of the Treasure Coast,” said Kate Stemle, corporate director of Martin Memorial Health and Fitness Centers. “This program allows us to continue the continuum of care for members who are also medical patients, while giving us the necessary tools to help prevent disease and promote fitness for the general population.”

Martin Memorial Health and Fitness members have access to highly trained staff dedicated to improving and sustaining individual well-being through fitness. That includes programs designed to improve disease management and to integrate clinical care already being given.

Members can receive medical fitness profiles that will help them identify potential problems and highlight areas that can be worked through with assistance from Martin Memorial’s clinically trained personnel.

Health and fitness personnel at Martin Memorial have undergone special training and obtained advanced certifications to ensure members get the best possible instruction, personal training, fitness assessments and other services. The health and fitness centers are also overseen by a health and safety committee, led by medical doctors and clinical personnel. The committee provides guidance and recommendations for programming at the fitness centers.

Treasure Coast Health and Fitness Center to Remain Open During Renovations

We are excited to announce that beginning April 18, the Treasure Coast Health and Fitness Center will undergo renovations that will bring improved and enhanced facilities to our members and guests.

The renovations will provide members with an expanded workout area, more equipment, updated locker rooms, a new customer service desk, fresh paint and new carpet. The renovation will be broken into phases to allow for the least amount of disruption to our members’ fitness regimens.

Phase one will begin April 18 and continue through May 31 and will impact those who use the locker rooms, showers and pool area. The locker rooms will close at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 18. The restrooms located near the free weight area will remain open. The pool will close on Monday, April 20. Members who utilize the pool and aquatic classes are welcome to use the aquatic facilities at South Stuart Health and Fitness Center.

Phase two will occur from May 4 through May 31. On Monday, May 4, the main fitness and child care area will close. Throughout phase two, we ask members to please enter the facility through the main entrance of the building (where the physician offices are located) and enter the fitness center through the kitchen area – signs will be posted. All scheduled aerobics classes will continue and access to cardiovascular training and free weight equipment will remain available.

On June 1, the pool, locker rooms, child care and main fitness area will reopen. At this time, tentative plans for phase three renovations are being evaluated, which may include improvements to the aerobics and free weight rooms. Please watch for more updates as plans are finalized.

Please note that the health and fitness centers in Palm City, South Stuart, Hobe Sound and St. Lucie West will be available for use while the renovations take place.

During your next visit to the Treasure Coast Health and Fitness Center, please view our design board to learn more about the renovations and show your support by signing the demolition wall. Information on a grand re-opening celebration will be forthcoming. We sincerely appreciate your patience and value you as our customer.

For more information, please call (772) 223-5683.