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Promoting healthy lifestyles through hospital-based wellness centers is no longer a side business, it has moved to the core of healthcare delivery with population health management. Our senior management team is dedicated to staying on top of and getting ahead of, the changes, trends, innovations, and developments in medical wellness and lifestyle management. Healthplex Associates boasts an award-winning team that effectively manages medical wellness operations with the necessary sensitivity and understanding to ensure true integration of fitness and healthcare.
Promoting healthy lifestyles through hospital-based wellness centers has become a central focus of healthcare delivery, especially with an emphasis on population health management. Our senior management team is committed to keeping abreast of and proactively addressing changes, trends, innovations, and developments in medical wellness and lifestyle management.
This past month we held our in-person Annual Education and Leadership Retreat, where senior leadership from all 13 managed sites gathered to review operations, discuss trends, and evaluate opportunities to serve our healthcare clients best. This year’s meeting was held in Pittsburgh PA. We were fortunate to have Penn Highlands / Mon Valley Hospital CEO Peter Adamo kick the meeting off with a valuable session on the Future of Healthcare and the Benefits of Medical Wellness. Another highlight from this year’s conference included sessions from two Penn West University Exercise Science Professors, Dr. Brian Wood, and Dr. Barry McGlumphey, discussing legal issues and trends in the fitness industry. While outside speakers bring a fresh perspective on various topics in Medical Wellness, our HPA Team finds great value in internal sessions where we share best practices. This year’s topics included: Development of a Strategic Plan, Successful Clinical Integration using EHR, Developing Successful Athletic Performance Programs and Serving the Senior Population Effectively.
The leadership at HPA understands that hospitals, health systems, and other medical and healthcare professionals must create comprehensive solutions to meet the needs of healthcare organizations for wellness, prevention, fitness, and ambulatory care in their communities. Our senior management team is dedicated to staying on top of and getting ahead of, the changes, trends, innovati ment.
Don Doy
We are grateful for the honor of being selected as the #1 Fitness Center by The Meridian Star's Readers' Choice of 2024. We couldn't do what we do without our impressive members who have proactively decided to take their wellness into their own hands. Our staff is made up of exceptional and talented individuals who use their passion for fitness and for people to create a "family-like" exercise atmosphere. Thank you again to everyone who voted for us. Be Anderson Fit!
Multiple members of Crossfit Torment participated in Beach Brawl 2024 in Pensacola, Florida. Baptist Healthplex - Anderson members Payton Perrett, Davin Mancini and Akin Yonamine (Team named 2 Boxes of Old Dudes) placed 1st in the Masters Male Division. It was the fourth year in a row for Payton and Davin's team to win this division. We are very proud of these "Old Dudes."
The Center for Fitness and Health is happy to announce three of our fitness floor attendants recently passed their NASM personal training certification test. Congratulations to Trevor Schrock, Eric Oblak, and Brett Seich.
Trevor Schrock was hired in November 2018 and graduated with a degree in exercise science from Penn West University (PA). Trevor specializes in youth sports strength and conditioning, and he recently accepted a position as Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach at his alma mater, Belle Vernon Area High School.
Eric was hired in January of 2024, and he is a recent graduate of Slippery Rock University where he received his BS in Exercise Science. Currently, Eric is working towards attending medical school to become a sports medicine physician. While in college, Eric played collegiate football at Slippery Rock and enjoys working with clients of all ages, particularly college athletes.
Brett Seich is a man of many hats, working in our membership department, front desk staff, and fitness floor. Brett graduated from Carlow University with a degree in exercise science. While attending Carlow, Brett was a member of the track and field team. Additionally, Brett also works as an assistant coach with the Ringgold High School Track and Field team.
The second option, the Opticurve, brings the indoor running experience to a whole new level. This motorless treadmill allows you to run at your own pace, change speed, and stop at a moment’s notice. Both machines are the perfect solution for performance, rehabilitation, and anything else.
Introducing two new pieces of equipment to the Center for Fitness and Health: a first-of-its-kind flat motorless treadmill called the Optimill. It’s the most authentic feeling of true running a treadmill can offer.
Introducing two new pieces of equipment to the Center for Fitness and Health: a first-of-its-kind flat motorless treadmill called the Optimill. It’s the most authentic feeling of true running a treadmill can offer
OPTICURVE
The second option, the Opticurve, brings the indoor running experience to a whole new level. This motorless treadmill allows you to run at your own pace, change speed, and stop at a moment’s notice. Both machines are the perfect solution for performance, rehabilitation, and anything else.
The Center for Fitness and Health is proud to put their "Employee Spotlight" on Angel Elliott. Angel is a Certified Corrective Exercise Specialist and a PWR! Certified Instructor. She has worked at CFH for 2 years teaching senior aqua classes, PWR! class for Parkinson's Disease, and training a multitude of clients. Angel's training style allows her to work with clients who have clinical limitations such as arthritis, scoliosis, severe asthma, and balance issues. Additionally, Angel recently passed the American College of Sports Medicine Cancer Exercise Specialist exam. She is looking forward to helping any member who is in remission and has recently been diagnosed with cancer. She is extremely dedicated to her clients, and she is proud to work at the Center for Fitness and Health. Angel states, "Working at CFH has been unbelievable. This facility has offered me an opportunity to expand my role and grow my passion for helping those who struggle with daily activities. I must admit that this position is my dream job!"
The EQT REC Center had choreography in August for Iconic All-Star Cheer. We used ABC Choreography in Miami, Florida, which is a 5x world championship company run by Adrian Butler. The REC Center has coach Tera Harvey, who took Top Gun to their world championship many times, joining our team this season. The girls had a blast, and we are looking forward to competing this season! This program has brought much success for the EQT REC Center that could not have been possible without managers Amy Tustin and Meghan Ricciuti. We also have a great cheer staff who makes this program a possible with their dedication and love of the sport. We want to give a big thank you to Amy Tustin, Meghan Ricciuti, Lauren Abbadini, Makayla McNett, Maddie Morgan, Thorin Sanders, Maddie Van Divner, and Brooke Ramirez for making this sport a success here at the EQT REC Center.
Hi! I’m Beth Lemke, a pool group class instructor at HealthWorks for 5 years, holding four water instruction certifications. I teach three classes:
Water Aerobics: A fast-paced, full-body workout that is joint-friendly due to water's buoyancy.
Water in Motion: A choreographed class set to music, focusing on strength, balance, and cardiovascular fitness.
Healing in Motion: Designed for those with chronic diseases, emphasizing slow, intentional movements to improve mobility and overall function. I've received positive feedback from participants regarding improvements in mobility and pain reduction. Join us for a fun and supportive experience in the pool!
My name is Richard, or I answer to Ricky. I’d like to share my fitness journey with you. Thirty years ago, I applied the “bodybuilding method” to my training. I was a long-term
member at the then-called YWCA and now HealthWorks.
A long story short, I’ve had some serious injuries over the years including a torn rotator cuff, carpal tunnel release surgery on both hands, and 2 herniated discs in my neck. I was prescribed oxycontin for pain management by my doctor. Eventually, I threw myself into college and got an office job leaving exercise behind.
After almost 12 years, I had “somewhat of a breakdown” and became hospitalized. I was later able to get off most of the oxycontin, but then I became extremely depressed.
One day at work, my co-worker Karl invited me to go fishing. Our friendship grew, and we are now best friends and “brothers.” Glimpses of the “old me ” before the depression started to come out. I remember waking up and looking in the mirror feeling like what I saw wasn’t the real me.
I started a small workout routine at home and lost a good bit of weight. One day, my buddy Karl said that he wanted to go to the gym, but he wasn't sure about the machines. So, I went with him as a guest to help. Well, the bug bit me again, and I dove in! We both became members at HealthWorks (me again and Karl as a new member).
I began trying new types of workouts that incorporated things from family, friends, and personal interests. I even learned a little ballet and dance with my granddaughters. I also learned martial arts training (Wing Chun), boxing, and bicycling with my Uncle Jackie Races. He’s a member too! I also use my imagination to play out scenes as I work out (this is what I call the actors part). I’m not mastering all these techniques or subjects, but I’m learning the basics to apply their forms and movements to lifting. The BASICS are all you need.
Finally, my whole outlook is to get people in the gym and to show them a new way of applying exercise for life. Not everyone will become a paid bodybuilder. I’m 50 years old, and I can do things I never thought I could. I feel better than ever! This new confidence and outlook were sparked by the kindness of a stranger whom I call family. Thanks, Karl.
The gym really can be a place where you come and high-five each other, fist bump, and talk about how you ' re doing. I try to ask someone their name every so often at HealthWorks and it makes a difference. Invite a friend to the gym with you and talk to people to show it's okay. Introduce them to others and always look out for each other. The gym is fun! Help others find it fun by making them feel included. Make your gym time a fun time and go. Just showing up will prove you are halfway there!
Valencia, California
July through August we held our very own Fitlympics! Members competed in four “events” from July 26th to August 11th: Check-ins, Bike and/or Treadmill distance, Rower and/or StepMill distance, and Recumbent Elliptical and/or arm ergometer distance The top three winners won medals and other awards.
In August our Hospital hosted a “Girls Talk” event centered around Sleep Health Our fitness director, Russell Gage was asked to be on a panel with other health care professionals to speak and answer questions on the importance of sleep and it’s relation to exercise, health and overall wellness
For our September Community Outreach we tabled at the Santa Clarita Valley City Workers Health and Wellness fair and the SCV Water Health Fair We talked to members of the community about our fitness center, provided educational resources and even had one of our massage therapists out giving chair massages
This Summer we were excited to offer a new service for Parkinson’s patients in the form of a regular exercise program This Parkinson’s Wellness program was designed for patients with Parkinson's directly referred by their physician or therapist and follows the PWR!Moves training system. Each class targets rigidity, incoordination and bradykinesia (slow movements) by utilizing movement amplitude (large movements) to improve overall quality of life This program now meets twice a week with two separate groups separated by whether they are a stage 1 patient or stage 2 patient.
Our Summer Sport Performance program ran from June to August We had a total of 35 new individual athletes join along with 3 full teams Athletes spent a portion of their off-season with us getting faster, stronger and educated on how to move more efficiently
We worked with Henry Mayo’s Physical Therapy team to create a referral process in which patient’s are screened by the physical therapists to determine what stage of Parkinson’s the patient is in They then meet with our Clinical Integration Coordinator, Ben Taub and undergo an orientation to the exercises before joining the class.
Indianapolis, Indiana
We were thrilled to welcome Dr. Chad Nowlin, the innovative founder of NRG Physio and the mind behind The Keystone Reset. Dr. Chad pioneered a transformative approach to physiotherapy with his philosophy: "Pain is not a medical problem. It is a movement problem. And if movement is the problem, movement can’t be the medicine."
In this enlightening session, attendees had the chance to delve into Dr. Chad's personal experiences within the healthcare system and learned how they motivated him to create The Keystone Reset. The session included:
Identifying the root causes of pain
Using pain as a compass towards achieving genuine pain freedom
Understanding the vital role of functional capacity in pain management
Effective methods for achieving long-term pain relief rather than temporary solutions
This lecture had an impressive turnout of 45 participants. Our Lunch and Learn series continues to gain momentum and popularity among our members, fostering a vibrant community of learning and engagement.
Our powerlifting meet on July 27th was nothing short of extraordinary! This year, we saw a record-breaking turnout, particularly among women powerlifters, with an impressive total of 11 female competitors taking to the platform Their determination and strength were truly inspiring, and they set an empowering example for all The atmosphere in the gym was electric, as many of our members took a break from their own workouts to support and cheer on the athletes The camaraderie and encouragement from the crowd created an environment of unity and excitement Each lift was met with enthusiastic applause, and the energy was palpable as each competitor gave it their all.
Our partnership with Naptown United brought immense value to our soccer season, fostering a community of learning and enthusiasm for the sport. The club's experienced trainers ran engaging practice sessions during the week, focusing on essential skills like dribbling, passing, and teamwork. They also provided valuable mentorship to our parent volunteer coaches, equipping them with effective coaching techniques and strategies. By doing so, they not only enhanced the quality of our Saturday games but also created a supportive environment where players of all levels could thrive and develop their soccer abilities. This collaboration enriched our soccer program, bringing both players and coaches together in a shared passion for the game.
MRMC started the Golden Step challenge to help members be more active in a fun and friendly competition. The monthly challenge began July 15, 2024. Participants use the honor system to report their steps weekly. Members can join as a team or solo. The Golden Baton is handed off each month to the next winner.
Congratulations Esther & Roland Villareal for winning our first ever Golden Baton.
Congratulations Betty Sira, the Golden Baton winner of Round Two.
Odessa, Texas
The 20th annual Tumbleweed Triathlon was held on July 28, 2024 with sixty-five total participants. This was the third year that Mission Fitness has been the Presenting Sponsor of the triathlon that is a USAT sanctioned and officiated event consisting of a 400 yard pool swim, 20k bike course and 5k run. Cloudy skies and unseasonably "cool" temperatures welcomed race participants whose efforts benefited the Medical Center Health System Foundation. All race proceeds are donated to The Foundation that exists to support community health in the Permian Basin region of Texas. The Foundation's outreach has included the Children's Miracle Network, Patient Navigation Programs for patients with breast cancer, Friends of Nursing Fund that helps MCH nurses achieve continuing education and stay up to date with today's rapidly evolving healthcare environment.
John Douthitt, General Manager of Mission Fitness, as well as HPA’s Assistant Vice President, spoke with the "Introduction to Health Professions" class at the University of Texas Permian Basin. This is a four year university and branch of the UT system. John has the privilege of speaking to them twice a year. The class is for freshmen and sophomores and introduces them to different professions within the Health and Wellness field. John discusses his background and the positions he has held from working the floor as an exercise specialist through current day. The students have an opportunity to ask questions and see what their chosen field looks like from an experience professional.
community, and vendors who support and treat cancer. The event includes a barbeque hosted by our local doctors, educational presentations, therapy dogs, hands-on art projects, music, classic cars, and other entertainment We always look forward to this an
Montage Wellness Center staff participated in the annual Cancer Survivor’s Day on August 10th. This is a picnic-style event for recognizing and appreciating those whose lives have been affected by cancer. This annual event had over 500 attendees including cancer survivors, their family members, the medical opportunity to reconnect with many of the current and past facility members who have participated in our quarterly cancer survivors program hosted at Montage Wellness Center. This program is a 6-week series in which participants receive educational and exercise support during their journey and recovery from cancer.
In September, our front desk staff created a fun member check-in challenge Bingo Board. When visiting the facility during the month, members would spin the Bingo-Ball drum and apply their winning numbers to the giant
Bingo Board at the front desk. We had over 20 winners with prizes such as water bottles, gym bags, towels, and headphones. The more visits … the more chances to win! Our attendance increased by over 1,000 check-ins from the previous month. Our staff and members enjoy these small, but significant engagement activities, which certainly increase our member's sense of community within our fitness facilities.
SBH Healthplex welcomed to the team Amaris Martinez as the new Fitness Director this past August. She comes to us with a background in Personal Training, Stretch Therapy, Management and Community Outreach. Amaris holds a Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science and is one semester away from obtaining a Masters Degree in Human Performance and Fitness. On her free time she enjoys spending time with her teenage son and two rescue dogs. We are excited to have her on board.
In September, Amaris coordinated an event for SBH Employee Appreciation day with the help of the staff. Over 100 employees stopped by the booth to Spin the Wheel winning a free HRA, gym bag, water bottle or 1 free week at the facility.
By incorporating elements of mobility work, strength training, and postural correction, the program aims to improve overall physical health and reduce the risk of musculoskeletal issues associated with prolonged sitting. Our experienced team of healthcare professionals will guide you through each step of the program, ensuring that you receive the support and guidance needed to make lasting changes.
Singing River Healthplex hosted 'Fitlympics' during this year’s Olympics.
Registered members competed in four events, including: total check ins, distance on stationary bike, distance on treadmill, and distance on elliptical trainer during the two week period. First, second, and third place participants received their very own Olympic medal and gift certificate to a local restaurant.
Singing River Healthplex partnered with the local Singing River Health System clinics to offer comprehensive health risk assessments to collect basic health-data measurements along with cholesterol and blood glucose levels. The Healthplex exercise physiologists contributed by utilizing the clubs
770 Full
Water Analyzer to check muscle distribution, fat allocation, body water balance, and metabolic rate.
Project SEARCH was established in 1996 at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital to address staff turnover in entry-level support positions and to increase our employment of people with disabilities. The successful model has been replicated in hospitals, banks, universities, and businesses in approximately 600 locations in the U.S. and abroad. Designed as a nine-month unpaid internship program, Project SEARCH places interns in real-world work
settings where they learn all aspects of gaining and maintaining employment. A series of three internships lasting 10-12 weeks each allows interns to explore careers and develop marketable job skills. Project SEARCH interns receive worksite accommodations and adaptations as well as support from department mentors, the instructor, and skills trainers. The goal for each intern is to secure competitive, integrated employment in the community in which they live. The program provides individualized job development that is based on the intern’s interests, experiences, strengths, and skills. The Wellness Center of URMC is pleased to partner with Project Search and welcomes our new intern, Amy, who is working closely with mentor, Jordan Whittaker. Amy loves interacting with the members and is picking up valuable customer service skills along the way.
Happy Official Retirement to URMC’s CNO, and our sweet friend, Lane Harrington! She helped us all understand and navigate COVID and appropriate precautions, put our various ailments into laymen’s terms, allowed us to journey vicariously through her adventures, and motivated us to dig a little deeper by kicking absolute booty even after working a full, stressful day. We will miss her rockin’ it out in the back-left corner and hope she
she enjoys every moment of retirement with the family she adores so much! There’s just nothing like the workout family at The Wellness Center of URMC!