TO GIVE
Contact
« Back to Blog

WELLNESS CENTER OFFERS TIPS FOR A HEALTHY, ACTIVE NEW YEAR

Is getting healthier or becoming more active at the top of your New Year’s resolutions? If so, the community’s Wellness Center has the programs, resources and expertise to get you where you want to be in 2019.

“Winter is a great time to restart or start a wellness routine, not only by coming to the classes we offer here on campus but by making time for yourself—walking the halls, working out on your own time or scheduling an appointment with me,” said Alex Ramos, Wellness Center director.

While it may be tempting to jump headfirst into a new exercise program while your motivation is at its peak, it’s important for people of all ages to get a fitness screening to tailor workouts to meet specific needs and abilities while preventing potential setbacks.

“Getting pre-screened before you start an exercise routine is always in your best interest,” said Alex. “It provides good baseline measurements to track our progress throughout the year. If there are any health ailments I need to be aware of, we would also recommend getting a doctor’s release before you start.”

Once you’ve completed your fitness screening and are ready to begin your new fitness routine, the Wellness Center offers a variety of classes for all ability levels that can be participated in from either a standing or seated position and utilize resistance bands, free weights or even a participant’s own body weight.

And, if you’re concerned that classes offered through the Wellness Center will disrupt your normal schedule, or you won’t be able to make it during the cold winter months, don’t be.

“We plan our schedule so that our classes don’t conflict with other activities on campus like Bible study or men’s coffee,” said Alex. “I’ll even go across the street to our Broadway apartments to work with our independent living residents so that they can avoid slick sidewalks.”

In addition to residents, staff members and their families are also welcome to use the Wellness Center at no cost. Residents in the Newton area can join for $20 a month. Everyone interested in a membership just needs to set up an appointment to get pre-screened so that they can learn proper equipment use and set appropriate goals—something Alex feels is critical to any successful fitness program.

“It’s good to have long-term goals but we have to keep in mind that in order to reach those we have to break them down into small goals that are attainable,” said Alex. “If we can simplify that process by taking them one day at a time, that can work well for us individually.”

PHOTO: Newton’s Wellness Center was featured in a photo shoot earlier this year. Alex Ramons, Wellness Center director, posed with models to demonstrate how he works with residents to meet their fitness goals.

« Back to Blog