HEALTH &
2026
SUPPLEMENT TO THE ALPENA NEWS • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2026
Daily tasks to keep your kitchen clean The kitchen may be the heart of a home, but health experts notes it’s also the dirtiest room in the house. According to the National Sanitation Foundation, areas where food is stored and prepared have more fecal contamination and bacteria than other places in a home, like the bathroom. The NSF found more than 75 percent of dish sponges and rags tested positive for salmonella, E. coli and fecal matter. This is a much higher percentage than bathroom faucet handles, 9 percent of which were found to contain these harmful microorganisms. Kitchens also are vulnerable to additional pathogens. Since food is found in kitchens, there may be higher rates of insect and animal pests, which come with their own health dangers. Pest droppings can be a serious health hazard that contaminate food sources and spread airborne pathogens that can trigger asthma and allergic reactions. Pest waste also can lead to gastrointestinal upset.
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Kitchens require frequent cleaning. In fact, the following daily cleaning tasks can help keep people safe and healthy. • Wash dishes. Hand wash all dishes or load them into the dishwasher promptly after use. • Clean away clutter. Remove unnecessary ingredients, tools and other items that do not need to be on countertops, as such items may be vulnerable to contamination. • Address surfaces. Use an all-purpose cleaner to clean countertops and the stovetop. Clean up spills as they happen. Look for cleaners that offer microbial protection, but warm, soapy water also works. • Clean frequent-use items. Cutting boards, the coffee maker, the kitchen sink, and areas of the refrigerator that come in contact with uncooked and unwashed food require frequent, thorough cleaning. • Soak sponges. Sponges can collect germs. Heating damp sponges in the mi-
crowave for a minute can kill bacteria, offers Healthline. Sponges also an be soaked in a quart of warm water with half a teaspoon of concentrated bleach. Others have said to run sponges through the dishwasher cycle to sanitize. • Wipe down handles. Take time each day to wipe refrigerator handles, stove knobs, microwave handles, faucets, and light switches in the kitchen. • Replace towels. Frequently switch out kitchen towels, and especially if they have come in contact with raw food. Use a separate towel for drying hands than you do for drying dishes. • Clean the floor. Vacuum the kitchen floor each day, particularly after dinner. Routine mopping also ensures floors remain clean. Keeping on top of kitchen cleaning each day can keep these popular areas safe for all.
Mental Health Resources Are you interested in mental health resources but have no idea where to start? We have what you may be looking for! Partners in Prevention has built Mental Health Resource Maps of a comprehensively compiled and regularly updated list of mental health resources in Alcona, Alpena, Montmorency and Presque Isle Counties. These long-awaited maps are a product of years of research and collaboration with our community partners in four counties including law enforcement, first responders, emergency management, hospitals, medical clinics, mental health providers and more, to give a fully comprehensive map of the current resources for mental health care and treatment in our counties. This map includes resources for adults and for those under age 18. It outlines protocol of our first responders, the legal system, and our medical systems for crisis situations, to give the community an understanding of what to expect when calling for help. It lists general resources
for a starting point for anyone wanting to care for their mental health. The website also includes preventative services that encourage lifestyle choices that support good mental health. With these Mental Health Resource Maps, Partners in Prevention has laid out a multitude of local resources so that those in our community can find a variety of approaches to advocate and care for their mental well-being. It also enables our community partners to identify each other, work together, and to recommend resources to those they are serving. It helps our rural communities identify what is working well and what isn’t working so we can collaborate on improvement efforts, and act as a collective voice to advocate and bring attention to what we need to build on. Funding is from a four-year Mental Health and Awareness Training (MHAT) grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. The maps can be found at www. partnersinpreventionnemi.org.
Warning signs of gastrointestinal issues Gastrointestinal issues (GI) are prevalent across the globe. A recent analysis published in the journal Gastroenterology indicated there were 2.86 billion prevalent cases of digestive diseases in 2019. Such figures astound and underscore just how significant a problem GIs are for people from all walks of life and in all corners of the globe. It’s easy to write off certain gastrointestinal issues as a temporary nuisance. But any discomfort or pain in the abdominal area merits consultation with a physician, as untreated GIs can result in unwanted and dangerous consequences, including death. With that in mind, individuals are urged to recognize these symptoms of GIs and to report any that appear to a physician. Cramps Abdominal cramps is a known indicator of Crohn’s disease, which the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation notes is an inflammatory bowel disease marked by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.
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WebMD notes that abdominal cramps associated with Crohn’s disease flare up when the disease is active. Abdominal swelling Abdominal distension is the term used to describe an abdomen that is abnormally swollen outward. The Cleveland Clinic notes this distension is visible and sometimes even measurable. This condition can make a person feel bloated or as if gas or digestive contents are trapped in their stomach. The Cleveland Clinic notes chronic abdominal distension is often a sign of an underlying digestive issue, which may include celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease. Dehydration Dehydration can be symptomatic of a wide range of ailments, including small bowel obstruction. The online medical resource Healthline reports that a small bowel obstruction can block the contents of the small intestine from passing through the digestive tract. This potentially serious condition can cause cramps and also lead
to dehydration. Bloody bowel movements WebMD notes that blood after wiping could indicate any of a number of serious issues affecting the gastrointestinal system. Blood in the toilet after a bowel movement is another sign that merits immediate discussion with a physician. The presence of either or both of these symptoms may be a sign of colon cancer, colon polyps, colitis, diverticulosis, or other issues, including rectal tears or hemorrhoids. Lower right abdominal pain Lower right abdominal pain is a potential warning sign of appendicitis, which is an inflammation of the small pouch known as the appendix that protrudes from the large intestine. The Cleveland Clinic notes this pain might begin around the
belly button and then gradually intensify and shift toward the lower right abdomen. Gastrointestinal issues affect billions of people across the globe. Learning to recognize these symptoms can compel people to get potentially life-saving treatment.
ACC ACC Wellness Center ACC Wellness Wellness Center Center
The Wellness Center The features: Wellness Center features:
The Wellness Center features: The Wellness Center features: The • W ellness Center features: Cardio machines • Cardio machines • Cardio machines Cardio machines • Weight training circuit • Weight training circuit • Weight training circuit • Personal exercise programs • Personal exercise programs Weight training • Personal exercise programs circuit • Locker rooms • Locker rooms programs Personal exercise • Locker rooms • Shower facilities • Shower facilities Located on ACC's main Located campus, on ACC's next to main campus, next to • Shower facilities Locker rooms Located on ACC's main campus, next to • Equipment check out• Equipment check out Park Arena, the Frederick ParkT.Arena, Johnston the Wellness Frederick T. Johnston Wellness check out Park Arena, the Frederick T. Johnstonfacilities Wellness •• Equipment Shower gym Center is open to students, Center faculty, is openstaff, to students, and • Open faculty, staff, and • Open gym Open gym Center is open to students, faculty, staff, and Equipment check out community members. community members. For more information, visitVisit our more website at: community members. Visit our Website for our Website for more Open gym Visit our Website for more Plan to exercise? NotPlan suretowhere exercise? to start? Not surehttps://discover.alpenacc.edu/about/ where to start? information! information! Plan to exercise? Not sure where to start? information! visitors/wellness_center.php Here is an opportunity Here to tapisinto an opportunity what ACC has to taphttps://discover.alpenacc.edu/about/ into what ACC has https://discover.alpenacc.edu/about/ Here is an opportunity to tap into what ACC has https://discover.alpenacc.edu/about/ Website for more to offer right hereVisit on to campus offer right at thehere Frederick on campus atour the Frederick OR
to offer right here on campus at the Frederick T Johnston Wellness TCenter. JohnstonDirector Wellness Noel Center. ScanDirector this codeNoel information! T Johnston Wellness Center. Director Noel Curtis and Health Fitness Curtis Technician and Health Sharlene Fitness Technician Sharlene Curtis and Health Fitness Technician Sharlene https://discover .alpenacc.edu/a Kozlowski will put their Kozlowski expertise will toputwork their expertise to work Kozlowski will put their expertise to work as they review the various as theyoptions review available the various options available as they review the various options available for exercise, assist you forinexercise, trying out assist different you in trying out different for exercise, assist you in trying out different pieces of exercise equipment pieces ofand exercise engageequipment you and engage you pieces of exercise equipment and engage you in conversation on developing in conversation a program on developing that a program that in conversation on developing a program that keeps in mind those problem keeps inareas mindwhether those problem it areas whether it keeps in mind those problem areas whether it be a shoulder, hip, knee be or a shoulder, back. Either hip, knee way, or back. Either way, be a shoulder, hip, knee or back. Either way, they are here for you. they are here for you. they are here for you. The public is welcome. The Join public today. is welcome. Call Join today. Call The public is welcome. Join today. Call Noel at 358-7391 or Noel drop in at 358-7391 and we will or be drop in and we will be Noel at 358-7391 or drop in and we will be more than happy to getmore you heading than happy in the to get right you heading in the right more than happy to get you heading in the right direction. direction. direction.
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Great workouts on days when a trip to the gym isn’t feasible ple have no qualms about exercising in a gym, where strength-training machines and cardiovascular equipment facilitate full-body workouts that promote healthy minds and bodies. But others find gyms intimidating or can’t fit daily gym excursions into their schedules. Others may find working out in the same facility each day a little boring. That’s why it can be beneficial to find alternative means to exercising on those days when a trip to the gym isn’t feasible or appealing. • Take to the trails. The great outdoors can be a gym unto itself. Various outdoor activities can build strength and promote cardiovascular health. Hiking is one such balanced mind, activity. According to Harvard Medical body & spirit School, the uneven terrain hikers encounter on trails requires more energy to • Organic, Plant Based traverse, which in turn burns more caloSupplements • Organic Wine ries than walking on level surfaces. • Locally Sourced • Commit to interval training. Interval Lavender Products training has long been recommended to • Organic Local Honey busy adults with hectic schedules. In• Organic Bakery terval training is exercise that involves & So Much More... periodic short bursts of intense physical hillmanhealthfood.com activity followed by periods of rest or 855-264-7437 211 State St., Hillman, MI low-intensity activity. Interval training
The right workout routine can make a world of difference in a person’s life. When people like their fitness regimens, they’re more likely to commit to routine exercise, which can help reduce their risk for chronic diseases, make them less vulnerable to injury and improve their mental health. No two people are the same, so a workout regimen that’s enjoyable and effective for one person will not necessarily appeal to another individual. Some peo-
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sessions tend to be shorter than moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT), but the periodic bursts of intense physical activity make interval training sessions highly effective workouts. In fact, a 2021 study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that interval training provides similar health and performance benefits as MICT. Challenging hikes can mimic the effects of interval training, as can additional activities such as jumping rope, cycling and swimming that do not necessarily need to be performed at a gym. • Embrace your inner yogi. Yoga is another physical activity tailor-made for busy adults who don’t have time to get to the gym each day. The characterization of yoga as a niche activity is no longer applicable, as participation among males in the United States alone grew from four million in 2012 to 14 million in 2022, according to Yogkulam.org. Though global participation figures are hard to determine, market projections estimating the valuation of the yoga industry at $215 billion in 2025 are a tes-
tament to the popularity of this activity, which Johns Hopkins Medicine credits with improving strength, balance and flexibility. Yoga also has become increasingly accessible since the pandemic, as Yogkulam.org notes 40 percent of yoga practitioners prefer virtual classes available through platforms such as YouTube that can be streamed from the comforts of home. There’s no shortage of ways to fit exercise into your daily schedule, even on days when a trip to the gym is not in the cards.
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By Cristi Johnson, Owner SkellaFit Personal Training The research is in, and it’s time to change the way you think about exercise. For years we’ve been sold the lie that cardio was the singular asset (especially if you are a woman) when it comes to your personal workout plan, but over the last few years, more research is pointing to the benefits of strength training. And there’s no question why - building muscle is our fountain of youth! It’s been scientifically proven: People who do strength training live longer than those who don’t. A large 2018 study in the British Journal of Sports Medicine followed over 80,000 adults. Those who performed muscle-strengthening activities 1–2x per week had: 23% lower risk of all-cause mortality 31% lower risk of cancer-related death 29% lower risk of cardiovascular mortality The numbers are impressive, but let’s think of it from a practical standpoint: As we know, experiencing a fall as an older adult can be incredibly dangerous. Muscle supports bone and strong muscles help with balance. If strong bones don't break as easily, we should be doing everything we can to make and keep them as strong as possible! Higher bone density is not just associated with lower mortality, but also fewer fractures. The great news is, studies in Osteoporosis International show progressive strength training can halt or reverse bone loss, and even increase bone density in post-menopausal women. This is why as a fitness professional and personal trainer, the one piece of advice I give most people over the age of 30, is to learn how to strength train. Adults lose 3–8% of muscle per decade after age 30, accelerating after 60—unless they strength train. The problem is, strength training sounds intimidating to most, but it doesn’t have to be. Let’s bust strength training’s biggest myth: Strength training does not mean lifting as much weight as possible. In fact, the most recommended type of strength
training is slow and progressive, adding more weight as your body adapts and becomes stronger and more capable. In fact, when you begin strength training, you don’t even have to involve weights! You can start with just your own body weight before you ever pick up a dumbbell. However, coming up with a plan can be overwhelming. How do you know where to start and if you’re doing it the right way once you get started? That’s why I believe so much in personal training. The workout plan is written for the individual with individual goals in mind. Need balance, strength and mobility work? Great! Have specific goals like wanting to get up from the floor without using your hands, being able to visit Disney with your family without wearing yourself out, or being able to live independently for as long as possible? Even better! Hiring a coach can help you to achieve those goals faster and more safely than going at it alone. Finding someone to guide you to make sure you’re using proper form and don’t take on too much too quickly is the smartest move you can make. I also encourage the power of community. If you have the opportunity to work with a coach in a small group or semiprivate setting, you will build skills and friendships that will last a lifetime. You’ll have others to keep you accountable, and the fun you have in the group will make it feel less like work and more like something you get to look forward to each week. Regardless of whether you choose to go it alone, hire a Personal Trainer or join a Small Group Training program, the most important thing is to get moving and keep moving. Find something you like to do, and lean hard into it. Fitness doesn’t need to be complicated, it should be fun, challenging and something you look forward to for the rest of your life! Still not sure what to do? Feel free to contact me at SkellaFit Personal Training for a Free Strategy Session. I’m always happy to help those who want to improve their lives: 989-354-0050 or coachskella@gmail.com
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What is Tivity Health, and what do we do? Tivity Health works with clients, members, health care partners and participating locations to deliver a consumer experience that goes beyond supporting physical health to advancing overall vitality, especially in aging populations. We specialize in creating everyday opportunities for long-lasting health and vitality.
leading exercise program designed exclusively for older adults. Included as a benefit with Medicare health plans nationwide, SilverSneakers helps seniors improve their health and stay independent. Eligible health plan members need only show their SilverSneakers member ID number or card to access participating locations. SilverSneakers classes are designed specifically for seniors and led by trained instructors. In addition to using amenities and taking classes, program members find participating locations a place to socialize and make new friends. You can learn more about the program at SilverSneakers.com/.
Tivity Health meets members where they are, empowering them to take meaningful steps toward a healthier, happier, more productive life. Our solutions are designed to address the greatest health barriers adults face today - and the new challenges they’ll encounter tomorrow. Our customized programs engage program members Call the Aplex for more information in health improvement activities such and help getting signed up for a free as physical activity at participating year! locations like yours. Your location may offer one or more of the programs listed below. Program members who visit your location receive the same membership privileges and amenities as others who have your basic membership. Silver Sneakers SilverSneakers®
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The Aplex is now participating in Priority Health/ United Health Care - Active Renew and Blue Cross/Silver Sneakers fitness programs which offer free membership to those with this coverage!
THE APLEX ALSO OFFERS SENIORS FROM ALPENA COUNTY GET A FITNESS CENTER MEMBERSHIP FOR 50% OFF! (60 years and up)
THIS OFFER IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE OLDER PERSON’S MILLAGE
701 Woodward Ave., Alpena, MI 49707 989-354-6164
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TO GET MORE INFORMATION AND TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THESE OFFERS! 701 Woodward Ave., Alpena ________________________________________________________
Wednesday, January 14, 2026 ~Health & Fitness Guide - 5
Signs adolescents might be struggling with mental health Adolescence can simultaneously be an exciting and challenging time for children. The World Health Organization defines adolescence as a transitional period children
experience between the ages of 10 and 19. The physical changes and challenges of adolescence are widely recognized, but mental health also can be challenged during this pivotal period in a young person’s life. It’s easy to mistake signs of mental health issues among adolescents as normal struggles that tend to affect all children at this point in their lives. However, the WHO reports that one in seven adolescents across the globe experiences a mental disorder, which is why it’s so important that parents do not quickly dismiss signs of struggle as a normal part of adolescent life. Recognition of signs suggesting adolescents are struggling with mental health issues can increase the chances kids get the help they need.
STAY ACTIVE STAY CONNECTED STAY STRONG
Join our Senior Exercise Class At the Alpena Senior Citizens Center. Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 10:00-11:00 a.m. Age 60 and over All abilities welcome -Seated & standing options-Great company! Come join us and stay strong together!
501 River Street, Alpena, Ml 49707 989-356-3585 • www.alpenaseniors.com
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Behavioral disorders The WHO reports that behavioral disorders, which include attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and conduct disorder, are more common among younger adolescents than kids nearing the end of this period in their lives. Kids who have difficulty paying attention, are excessively active and act without regard to consequences might be dealing with a behavioral disorder. Conduct disorder may compel children to exhibit destructive or challenging behaviors that compromise a child’s ability to fulfill their academic potential. Conduct disorder also can increase a child’s risk of engaging in criminal behavior. Eating disorders The WHO notes girls are more commonly affected by eating disorders than boys. These conditions, which include anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, tend to emerge during adolescence and are marked by abnormal eating patterns. Adolescents may exhibit an abnormal preoccupation with food and be particularly concerned about their body weight and the shape of their bodies. The WHO reports eating disorders often co-ex-
ist alongside other mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and even suicide. Psychosis Conditions marked by symptoms of psychosis, which can include hallucinations or delusions, tend to emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood. Participation in activities typical of daily life, such as school, are impaired by conditions indicative of psychosis. Risk-taking behaviors Some adolescents struggling with mental health turn to risk-taking behaviors in an effort to cope with their emotional challenges. The WHO reports that young people are especially vulnerable to substance abuse when confronting mental health challenges during adolescence. Some adolescents also look to risky sexual behavior as a means to coping with mental health issues during adolescence. Various mental health issues can arise during adolescence. Parents are urged to be vigilant and observe children’s behavior during this pivotal period in youngsters’ lives.
STAY ACTIVE. STAY CONNECTED. STAY STRONG!
Movement is medicine, and our senior exercise class, Empowered Movement, proves it three times a week at the Alpena Senior Citizens Center, 501 River Street! Held every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10:00-11:00 a.m. this welcoming class is designed to support healthy aging through safe, fun, and adaptable movement. Participants focus on improving strength, balance, flexibility, and endurance-all at a pace that meets each individual where they are. Whether standing or seated, every
exercise can be modified, making the class accessible for all fitness levels. Beyond the physical benefits, this class offers something just as important: connection. Laughter, encouragement, and friendships are part of every session, creating a supportive environment where seniors feel motivated and confident. Regular movement helps participants maintain independence, reduce fall risk, boost energy, and improve overall wellbeing. New faces are always welcome. Come move with us, stay active, and enjoy the positive energy that fills the room with each class! Age 60 and over qualifies you as a senior to participate in our programs.
501 River Street, Alpena, Ml 49707 989-356-3585 www.alpenaseniors.com
Nutritious snacks kids will love Fun snacks Pairing creative presentation with healthy foods often encourages children to try new things. Consider these options for snacks that elevate the fun factor. • “Ants on a log”: Parents may have come across these tasty snacks as requests from teachers or at preschool snack time. They’re essentially celery sticks filled with cream cheese, peanut butter or seed butter, and topped with raisins. • Fruit kabobs: Foods on sticks are easy for young hands to grasp. Using blunt wooden skewers, adults can thread grapes, melon chunks, strawberries, granola bar pieces, and maybe marshmallows. The kabobs can be served with a yogurt dip. • Smoothies: Smoothies are a great option that blend fruits and vegetables into something that may be more palatable to youngsters. Parents can take this snack one step further by freezing the smoothie batter into popsicle molds to create a refreshing dessert.
Quick snacks Having quick snacks at the ready is essential when hungry kids are around. Children may be more inclined to eat a few smaller meals and snacks than three big meals as they go about their days. • Cheese sticks: Prepackaged, low-fat cheese sticks or cheese slices are a protein-rich snack that kids can help themselves to when they get hungry between meals. Cheese also can be paired with apple slices or whole wheat crackers. • Parfaits: Let children create their own yogurt “sundaes” with their favorite ingredients. Have plenty of toppings on hand that can be added to plain or vanilla flavored yogurt, such as berries, bananas, chia seeds, nuts, and granola. • Hummus: Blended chickpeas can be seasoned with an array of flavors to create hummus varieties kids love. Mixing cocoa powder and honey into hummus also can create a “dessert” hummus that goes well with graham cracker dippers. Kids might demand less healthy fare at snack time. However, parents can stay a nutritious course and offer many healthy and flavorful alternatives to potato chips.
Make Fitness a Lifestyle, not a Resolution This year, decide to make fitness a lifestyle, rather than a resolution. When fitness becomes a non-negotiable in your life — part of who you are, and what you do, your health changes. The truth is that lasting fitness success doesn’t come from extremes. It comes from consistency. Fitness has the power to transform your life. Regular movement can give you more energy, help you lose weight, build strength, reduce stress, improve balance, and support better overall health. For many people, it can even help reduce reliance on medications and lower the risk of chronic disease. Most importantly, fitness helps you feel more confident, capable, in your everyday life. The good news? You don’t need hours of punishing workouts or a perfectly strict diet to see results. Real progress is built through small, sustainable habits done over time. When fitness becomes something you do regularly — rather than something you try occasionally—it becomes part of who you are.
• Helps manage arthritis, chronic pain, and injuries • Boosts mental health, mood, and energy levels
Ways to get moving: • Instructor-led aquatic fitness classes for strength and cardio
Focus less on perfection and more on progress. Commit to small, consistent steps, lean on support, and trust the process. Get started on a better year today—and let fitness help you build a healthier, stronger, more vibrant life.
Finding a workout plan you enjoy is equally important. At Bay Athletic Club, members have access to cardio equipment, strength training, and a wide variety of live and virtual group
200 W. Chisholm St 989.356.5600 www.BayAthleticClub.com
FB/IG @bayathleticclub
FAMILY OPEN SWIM Available Fri./Sat./Sun.
SWIM LESSONS Group Lessons are on Mon. and Wed. Each Session lasts 3 weeks. (6 lessons)
Members: $70 Non-Members: $90 Infant Toddlers: $50 Annual Youth Memberships: $100
Kids under 6 require an adult in the pool with them at all times.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF AQUATIC EXERCISE: Low impact, improves heart health, reduces stress, improves muscular endurance & strength, improves balance & coordination, supports mobility, & relieves joint pain.
AQUATIC ACTIVITIES Aqua Chi* AquaSurge* CardioSplash* DeeplyFit* Evening Aerobics* Independent Adult Fitness (18+) Lap, Open Fit Fun Pool Rentals Senior Fitness* Volleyball Water Walking Water Works* *Instructed Classes
At the Alpena County Plaza Pool we offer many water activities that focus on promoting a healthy lifestyle, recreation, and family fun! Whether you’re looking for a place to exercise, or a place to bring your family, the Alpena County Plaza Pool has something for everyone!
• Water walking for endurance, mobility, and rehab • Open Swim for fitness, play, and stress relief
• Swim Lessons for all ages — because confidence in the water is lifelong fitness
Finally, remember that what you do outside the gym matters too. Improving nutrition, prioritizing sleep, drinking water, limiting sweets, treats and alcohol, and managing stress all support your wellness. These habits don’t need to be perfect — make them better. Every small step adds up.
PRIVATE LESSONS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST. Swimming and water competency is not just a sport to learn, it is a survival skill!
• Burns calories without overheating or impact
• Water Volleyball for heart-pumping fun and social connection
Fitness is also more powerful when it’s social. Meeting fitness friends creates accountability, motivation, and community. A familiar face in class or a quick conversation before a workout can make showing up easier and more enjoyable.
One of the most effective strategies is to schedule your workouts like an appointment. Put them on your calendar just as you would a meeting or family commitment. When movement has a designated place in your schedule, it’s far more likely to happen.
STRONGER. HEALTHIER. HAPPIER IN THE WATER. At Alpena Plaza Pool, aquatic fitness isn’t The water supports your body while just exercise — it’s one of the smartest challenging your muscles — making it ways to take care of your body at any age. ideal for beginners, active adults, seniors, and anyone easing back into movement. Why water exercise works so well: No pressure. No pounding. Just progress. • Reduces joint stress while increasing Memberships available | Drop-ins welcome strength Take care of your body — jump in at • Improves heart health and circulation Alpena Plaza Pool. • Builds balance, flexibility, and core stability
fitness classes — all included in one membership. Trying different workouts keeps fitness fresh and engaging, and enjoyment is the key to consistency.
3303 S. 3rd Ave Alpena 989-354-8287
3303 South Third Avenue • Alpena • 989-354-8287 https://alpenacounty.org/642/Plaza-Pool • Facebook.com/alpenaplazapool ________________________________________________________ Wednesday, January 14, 2026 ~Health & Fitness Guide - 7
________________________________________________________ 8 - Health & Fitness Guide ~ Wednesday, January 14, 2026