BetterLife Fall 2019

FALL 2019

VILLAGE HEALTH CLUBS & SPAS

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INDOOR TRIATHLON

4th Annual

UP FOR ANYTHING

meet Mary Babick, Ocotillo’s Membership Director

FIVE PLAY SITUATIONS get the most out of tennis practice

MOM’S THE WORD

meet Camelback Village member Brittany Zaharaopoulos

TABLE of CONTENTS

BETTER

LIFE

Your Resort, Every Day 4th Annual Indoor Triathlon Up and Coming Youth Training Walking Well What’s Cookin’ Good Lookin’ We’ll Help You Unwind Employee Spotlight Vinyasa Flow Yoga 5 Play Situations Focus on Kids Kids’ Up and Coming Member Spotlight Focus on Members Oh, the Places You’ll Go Pilates Corner Social Spot

MEET your MANAGERS

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CAROL NALEVANKO

President, Village Health Clubs & Spas cnalevanko@dmbclubs.com

AMY ABERNETHY

General Manager, Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa aabernethy@dmbclubs.com

PAUL APANA

General Manager, Camelback Village Racquet & Health Club papana@dmbclubs.com

JIM KRIMBILL

General Manager, DC Ranch Village Health Club & Spa jkrimbill@dmbclubs.com

GREG NAKAGAWA

General Manager, Gainey Village Health Club & Spa gnakagawa@dmbclubs.com

FINDING THE BALANCE Summer has waned and the relaxing days of poolside lounging, road trips, and sleeping in have transitioned to the chaos of back to school—with frantic morning wake-ups, curriculum nights, homework checking, and every activity one could possibly fit into the 168 hours that make up a week.

Parenting is tough…full-time employment and parenting is tougher…and trying to do both while maintaining your physical and mental well-being…well, that’s just downright daunting! But as important as it is to balance the stress of employment along with the stress of doing right by each of your kids (academically, socially, and spiritually), of even greater importance is not allowing the responsibilities of your outer world to diminish the importance of quality time spent nurturing your inner world (your own physical and emotional well-being). It really is ok to take care of yourself and not feel guilty.

Your family will appreciate the happier, healthier you.

Don’t forget to ‘like’ Village Health Clubs & Spas on Facebook, where you’ll be privy to fitness information and Village events—everything Village!

modified to suit fitness levels. If you’re not up for a class, take a walk on the track. But any way you’d like to move is beneficial...just put it on your calendar.

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Easier said than done, of course. What strategies can help tackle the dilemma of fitting it all in, and how can your Village family help? We’ve got your back.

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Start small and schedule it: Instead of adopting the “all or nothing” mentality when it comes to your exercise routine, try to keep a realistic, balanced approach and start small with just moving a few times a week. The Village clubs have 150+ group fitness classes a week, ranging from early morning to evening.

Duration varies by modality, but all classes can be

Stay accountable: Exercise is so much more fun when shared with a friend or workout buddy. Knowing that a friend is counting on sharing that time with you helps you keep the workout commitment. So, when you’re tired after work, dinner, and dropping off for soccer practice, head over to the club and meet up with a friend. Do yoga or just walk together. If you’re in need of a little more coaching, our small group training program offers more personalized coaching to help you stay motivated, while still in a group setting that is fun and engaging. We also often launch fitness challenges that are a great way to keep your workouts on track, provide flexible workout times, and even provide incentives or prizes at the end.

There is also fantastic 1:1 personal training if you prefer that solo attention which can be scheduled around your busy life.

CAMELBACK

4444 E. CAMELBACK RD. PHOENIX, AZ 85018 PHONE: 602.840.6412 FA X: 602.852.0411

DC RANCH

GAINEY

7477 E. DOUBLETREE RANCH RD. SCOT TSDALE, AZ 85258 PHONE: 480.609.6979 FA X: 480.609.6976

18501 N. THOMPSON PEAK PKW Y. SCOT TSDALE, AZ 85255 PHONE: 480.502.8844 FA X: 480.515.5521

OCOTILLO

smcgann@dmbclubs.com (Gainey)

rkinney@dmbclubs.com (Ocotillo)

4200 S. ALMA SCHOOL RD. CHANDLER, AZ 85248 PHONE: 480.656.0045 FA X: 480.579.2930

on the cover

Read more about Camelback Member Brittany Zaharaopoulos on page 28.

Send comments, submissions, and advertising inquiries to: hmcmanus@dmbclubs.com (Camelback)

ehubber@dmbclubs.com (DC Ranch)

your resort

EVERY DAY

continued from page 2

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Hydrate: We live in the desert. It’s never enough. Keep drinking water! This keeps your energy levels up and your mind and body more alert.

class and get home before they even need to get up and ready for school! Give it a try. You might be surprised how much better you feel knowing that you’ve gotten your workout in before your day has even started. And once you get started in those early classes, it becomes easier to repeat.

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Lunch meeting at the club: Instead of always taking clients to lunch or having meetings with food, perhaps you could suggest bringing your client to the club and playing a game of squash or racquetball while discussing business or, again, maybe a class or Pilates reformer session. You can talk about the latest business initiative, project, or goal while moving together.

The early bird: it may not be easy for some of us to get up early and exercise, but if you’ve got junior high kids in Chandler, there’s a good chance you could catch an early

Laundry lunges: Laundry never ends…it just goes on and on and on. Try making a movement game out of the weekly laundry. Five squats for each pair of shorts you fold, ten lunges for pants (it’s so hot that at this time of year there may not be any), five push-ups for shirts, and one jumping jack for each sock folded (a pair of socks is two!). If you do multiple loads for the family, you’ll get several rounds of exercises in. Sounds silly, but again, it’s a goal and it’s fun. You can adjust the repetition amounts to meet your own individual level. And even if you don’t do it, I bet you’ll think about it when you’re standing over your laundry basket next weekend!

Our busy lives make it difficult to strike a balance between what our families and workplaces need in addition to maintaining any semblance of self-care. However, the longterm effect of neglecting personal well-being isn’t worth the short-term sacrifice. Our Village team is passionate about fitness and health and wants to support you in your pursuit of juggling it all. Leverage their expertise and ask for assistance. Let’s move into this fall with a commitment to keep your health in the forefront and watch as those efforts rub off on your family in a positive way!

In good health, Amy Abernethy GENERAL MANAGER, OCOTILLO VILLAGE HEALTH CLUB & SPA

aabernethy@dmbclubs.com

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www.villageclubs.com

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Get your kids involved too: Bring them to the club with you after homework is done. They can hang out in Kids’ Club, or the Exercade, or maybe participate in junior basketball or swim team. While they stay active, you can participate in your favorite activity within the club—or maybe just relax with a steam and sauna with eucalyptus.

your resort

EVERY DAY

Lots of podium finishers at

the July 14th Mountain Man Tri in Flagstaff

t the peak of A Sunrise Trail on Aug 16

Eileen Hatfield crosses the finish line at the Hawaii Half Ironman

G O L F TRY and PLAY Golf at The Phoenician

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The Arizona summer heat didn’t stop Village members from enjoying golf—a golf clinic (TRY Golf) or nine holes (PLAY Golf)—and sipping a cold beverage afterwards at The Phoenician Tavern.

The Village Telluriders taking in the view from the hotel

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Members enjoying a local “favorite� trail

TRIP

Telluride Summer Trip fall 2019 BET TERLIFE | 5

Members enjoyed an incredible weekend, escaping the heat and exploring the mountains of Telluride, Colorado.

your resort

EVERY DAY Village Vipers teams had a great

time competing in the SAC Splash meets in July!

HIKE

Hotter than Heck

The 9th Annual Hotter than Heck hike was 113 degrees but members didn’t notice because most of it was in the shade!

S wim Neptune kids Avery Johnson, Hope Hand, Mizuki Yahiro, & Samantha Kuczaj won the 13/14 Girls 400 Medley Relay at JOs!

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S wim Neptune’s Emma Sayers, Samantha Kuczaj, Katherine Chelus, & Avery Johnson placed 2nd at State in the 13/14 Girls 400 Medley Relay!

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Triathletes enjoyed a morning of swim, bike, and run to prepare for upcoming races

S wim Neptune’s Mark Khokhlov is the Virtual Champion for the Boys 10 and under Free at Junior Olympics for the entire state. He also won the 50 Fly, 100 Free, and 100 Back!

CAMP

Camelback Kids’ Summer Camp

Camelback’s Summer Camp ended the 2019 season with a camo theme field day competition against Gainey Village!

O ur Family Cycle Glow Night on September 27 was a free, fun night event for families to spend time together

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onday morning run M from Gainey

your resort

EVERY DAY

TRIP

Canyon Ranch Retreat

Village members had an amazing time enjoying all Canyon Ranch had to offer this past August: hikes, meditation, fitness classes, spa treatments, a high ropes course, and much more. Stay tuned for dates for our second annual Canyon Ranch retreat in 2020.

PATRICK

PARK

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2020 Olympic hopeful leads Camelback Village Vipers swim team When Village Vipers swim team coach Patrick Park told Camelback Program Director Heather McManus in late July of 2019 that he was .06 seconds away from the qualifying time for the 50 freestyle event for the 2020 Olympics trials, Heather thought it would take him 6 – 9 months of training in the Camelback Village pool to shave off the time. But only two weeks later Patrick, an ASU collegiate swimmer with numerous honors such as Pac-12 All-Academic Honorable Mention and Honorable Mention All-American, achieved his goal time. He is now going to Omaha for Olympic trials the last week of June 2020!

Help us cheer Patrick on as he races towards his Olympic dream and shows our Village kids that anything is possible!

If you are interested in meeting Coach Patrick or have a child interested in the Vipers swim team, contact Camelback Village Programs Director Heather McManus at hmcmanus@dmbclubs.com.

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V illage members escaped the heat and completed a 50-mile group ride around Lake Mary on June 22

V illage members conquered the 65-mile Taylor House ride on July 20 in Flagstaff

T he Village running group

from Gainey is dedicated to their weekday runs on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 5:30pm. All Village members are welcome to join in these runs!

O n one of the hottest days of the

year in August, swim team coach Tracy Richards cools off the kids by having them jump in an ice bath in between swimming sets.

The kids thought it was so cool!

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4TH ANNUAL

INDOORTRIATHLON JULY 21, 2019

Village Members went fast and had a blast in the 4th Annual Indoor Triathlon Sunday, July 21, 2019. While normally an early Sunday afternoon at the Ocotillo Village is fairly quiet, the club was packed on July 21!

Participants took on the challenge of swimming as many lengths in the pool as they could in 10 minutes, then heading to the Spin Studio for 30 minutes, followed by a 20-minute run on the treadmill.

Rodney Kinney, Director of Programs and Events at the Ocotillo club, said this event continues to be popular with new members and is one that past participants look forward to competing in again.

“We have members of all skill levels participate,” he said. “An Indoor Triathlon is a great way to mix up your workout routine. It gives everyone the ability to do three totally different areas of fitness. Our event is a safe environment in which participants of all levels, ages, and fitness goals can experience a fast-paced, competitive workout and possibly get inspired to try more multisport events in the future.”

Next year, we plan to make it part of our annual “Fitness for the Cure” event and add a kids’ category, to get more younger kids involved.

For more info about getting involved in multisports or the TEAMVillage Multisport Group, contact Rodney Kinney by email at rkinney@dmbclubs.com.

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up and

COMING COMMUNIT Y G •

THURS, OCT 3, 5:30 – 7 PM

THURS, OCT 24, 6:30 – 9:30 PM

C•

Porsche Club

FIRST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 6 PM

KE Y event location

C • Camelback D • DC Ranch G • Gainey O •

Ocotillo

Detailed information can be found in the Quarterly Event & Program Guide.

Party Like It’s 1999 At Gainey Village Casino Night

D G • Village Happy Hour at Dominick’s Steakhouse

D •

Member Appreciation Breakfast

TUESDAYS, OCT 8, NOV 12, + DEC 10, 8 – 10 AM

C •

Member Oatmeal Breakfast

TUESDAYS, OCT 8, NOV 12, + DEC 10, 9 AM UNTIL FOOD RUNS OUT

G•

Networking Luncheon

THURSDAYS, OCT 10, NOV 14, DEC 12, NOON – 1:15 PM

C•

Pickleball Night

SATURDAYS, OCT 12 + NOV 9, 5 – 7:30 PM

C•

Sunday Funday Bingo

SUN, 5:30 – 7 PM

SPOOKY BINGO OCT 13 TURKEY BINGO NOV 10 HOLIDAY BINGO DEC 15

Ghosts, Goblins, and Gambling Member Casino Night C•

FRI, OCT 18, 6:30 – 9 PM

D •

Stand-Up Paddle-Boarding

SUN, OCT 20, 7:45 AM

G •

Member Appreciation Breakfast

TUES, OCT 22, + WEDNESDAYS, NOV 13 + DEC 11, 8:30 – 10:30 AM

C •

Yappy Hours

THURSDAYS, OCT 24 + DEC 19, 4:30 – 6:30 PM

C •

Business Networking Group

LAST WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH AT NOON: OCT 30 + NOV 27 NOTE: NO DECEMBER MEETING

D •

Fang-tastic Fright Night Halloween Party

FRI, OCT 25, 6:30 – 9 PM

G •

Cooking Class with Chef Maggie

TUES, OCT 29, 6 – 7:30 PM

Happy Hour at The Living Room at The Shops at Gainey Village G•

WED, NOV 6, 5:30 – 7:30 PM

G •

Cooking Class with Chef Carmella

TUES, NOV 12, 6 – 7:30 PM

Happy Hour at Lou’s Bar & Grill at Papago Golf Course

C•

WED, NOV 13, 6 – 8 PM

C•

Growing Healthy Kids with Jamie Miller

SAT, NOV 16, 9 – 10 AM COST: $25/COUPLE

D •

Women’s Connection Group

CRYOTHERAPY NIGHT WED, OCT 9, 6 – 7 PM PAINT & WINE NIGHT TUES, NOV 5, 5:30 – 7:30 PM FAVORITE THINGS GIFT EXCHANGE THURS, DEC 12, 6 – 7:30 PM

D •

Member Holiday Party

FRI, DEC 6, 6:30 – 9 PM

G•

Member Holiday Party

THURS, DEC 12, 6:30 – 9 PM

C•

Member Holiday Party

FRI, DEC 13, 6:30 – 9 PM

G •

Holiday Cooking Class with Chef Maggie

TUES, DEC 17, 6 – 7:30 PM

GOLF CDGO•

Functional Mobility for Golf

SAT, OCT 5, NOON – 1:30 PM

C D G O • TRY Golf Today at Troon North Golf Club

Golf Instruction Three-Part

Series with Michael LaManna, Golf Pro for The Phoenician FRIDAYS, OCT 11, NOV 8, + DEC 6

Village Golf Tournament at Papago Golf Course

THURSDAYS, OCT 10 + 24, NOV 7 + 21, DEC 5 +19, 3:30 – 5 PM

CDGO•

PLAY Golf Today at Troon North Golf Club

SAT, NOV 16, 8 AM SHOTGUN; LUNCH PROVIDED AFTER COST: $130

CDGO•

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CDGO•

THURSDAYS; OCT 10, 3:45 PM SHOTGUN; OCT 24 + NOV 7, 3:15 PM SHOTGUN; NOV 21, DEC 5 + 19, 3 PM SHOTGUN

GROUP FITNESS D•

Fall Myzone Challenge

TUES, OCT 1 – THURS, OCT 31

G •

Strength for the Ages

with Coach George Naum TUES, OCT 1 – SUN, NOV 10

G •

Fall into Fitness

TUES, OCT 1 – MON, NOV 25

O•

Myzone Holiday Hustle

THURS, NOV 28 – TUES, DEC 31

O•

October Full Moon Event

FRI, OCT 11, 7 – 8:30 PM

G•

Yoga Inversion Workshops

SAT, OCT 12, NOON – 2:00 PM GAINEY SUN, OCT 20, 1:45 – 3:45 PM CAMELBACK

O•

Happy Halloween! Cosplay Yoga

with Ericka Brian SAT, OCT 27, 10 – 11 AM

O•

Yoga and Soothing Sounds with Ericka Brian

FRI, NOV 14, 6 – 7 PM

G•

Yoga Flow with Live Acoustic Music

SUN, DEC 8, 3 – 4:15 PM

Restore/Yin Yoga with Live Acoustic Music G•

SUN, DEC 8, 4:30 – 5:45 PM

HIKING CDGO•

Sunrise Peak Hike

SAT, NOV 9, 7:30 AM

CDGO•

Tom’s Thumb Hike

HO HO HO Holiday Camelback Echo Canyon Hike CDGO•

SAT, DEC 21, 8 AM

SAT, DEC 7, 7:30 AM, 4.5-MILE INTERMEDIATE TO ADVANCED HIKE

NUTRITION C•

Fitness Nutrition Workshops

SATURDAYS

PREGNANCY AND POSTNATAL (0 – 12 MONTHS) WORKOUTS with David NOV 2, 12 – 1 PM

WORK TRIP WORKOUTS with David OCT 5, NOON – 1 PM

ALZHEIMER’S AND FITNESS with Ted NOV 9, 1:30 – 2:30 PM

VISION, BALANCE, PERFORMANCE with Linda OCT 12, 9 – 10 AM STRENGTH TRAINING PROGRAM FOR DISTANCE RUNNERS AND CYCLISTS with Naci OCT 19, 10 – 11 AM

GROWING HEALTHY KIDS with Jamie (our dietitian)

NOV 16, 9 – 10 AM (WELCOME TO BRING 1 GUEST: SPOUSE, NANNY OR GRANDPARENT)

BARBELLS AND BEERS 90-MINUTE POP-UP WORKOUT with Megan

SKI SEASON WORKOUT with Megan OCT 26, 9:30 – 10:30 AM

NOV 30, 9:30 – 11 AM

DIABETES AND FITNESS NOV 2, 1:30 – 2:30 PM

BABY IT’S SWOLL OUTSIDE WEIGHTLIFTING WORKSHOP with Peter DEC 7, 10:30 – 11:30 AM

R ACQUE T SPORTS C•

Fall Tennis Mixed Doubles Tournament

FRI – SUN, OCT 4 – 6

C•

Junior Compass Tennis Tournament

SUN, OCT 20

C•

Fall Tennis Singles Classic

FRI – SUN, OCT 25 – 27

Halloween Tennis Social

SUN, OCT 27, 6:30 PM

C•

Fall Tennis Doubles Classic

FRI – SUN, NOV 8 – 10

US Open Racquetball Tournament Minneapolis, MN CDGO•

MON – FRI, OCT 2 – 6

Family Fun Tennis Day

SAT, NOV 16, NOON

C•

Junior Compass Tennis Tournament

SUN, NOV 17

C • 12th Annual Mercedes Holiday Tennis Tournament WED – SUN, NOV 20 – 24 SIGN-UP: ON TENNIS LINK VIA THE USTA WEBSITE

C•

Junior Compass Tennis Tournament

SUN, DEC 1

C • “Final 16” Singles Tennis Ladder Tournament FRI – SUN, DEC 6 – 8

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D•

D•

up and COMING cont’d S WIM C•

Master’s Swim

TUESDAYS + THURSDAYS: 5:45 AM + 6 PM WEDNESDAYS: NOON

KE Y event location

C • Camelback D • DC Ranch G • Gainey O • Ocotillo

SPORTS C•

Early Morning Hoops

MON/THURS FULL COURT, TUES HALF COURT; 5:30 – 7 AM

C•

18+ and 40+ Pickup Games

SEE WELCOME DESK OR PROGRAMS OFFICE FOR COURT SCHEDULE

C•

Turkey Shootout

THANKSGIVING MORNING 8 AM, 3 ON 3 ROUND-ROBIN BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT

C•

Adult Fencing Class

WEDNESDAYS, 7 – 8 PM, COST: $170/MONTH, NEW PARTICIPANTS 15% OFF

Detailed information can be found in the Quarterly Event & Program Guide.

TE AM VILL AGE TRIATHLON O•

Brew Ha Ha 5K Run

C•

Tour de Bosa

SUN, OCT 20

CDGO•

Long Course Bike/Run

Honor the Brave 5K Run

SUN, NOV 10

CDGO•

Post Turkey Day Fun Run

FRI, NOV 29, 8 AM, ASCENSION LUTHERAN CHURCH

TRIPS CDGO•

Camino de Santiago, Portugal

OCT 10 – 17, 2020

CDGO•

Village Ski Trip to Telluride

FEB 6 – 10, 2020, THE PEAKS RESORT

CDGO•

Village Ski Trip to Telluride

FEB 27 – MARCH 2, 2020, THE PEAKS RESORT

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Jingle Bell Triathlon

CDGO•

Upcoming Races

TOUR DE SCOTTSDALE SUN, CT 13

SAT, NOV 9, 6 AM MEET AT GAINEY

O•

CDGO•

SUN, DEC 22, 9 AM, AT GAINEY

SUN, OCT 13

IRONMAN AZ 70.3 SUN, OCT 20 LAKE PLEASANT TRIATHLON SUN, NOV 3 TOUR DE TUCSON SAT, NOV 23 IRONMAN ARIZONA SUN, NOV 24 HOT CHOCOLATE RUN SUN, DEC 1 SCOTTSDALE HALF MARATHON SUN, DEC 15

YOUTHTRAINING RECOMMENDATIONS

If you’re one of the parents out there wondering about the appropriate age to have your child begin a strength and conditioning program, you’re not alone. There’s still debate among researchers, coaches, and practitioners.

However, there is a huge body of research supporting the participation of children in youth training programs.

In 2009, the youth position statement published by the National Strength and Conditioning Association states that a well-designed program under the supervision of a qualified coach or trainer can be safe, increase power and strength, prevent sports-related injuries, improve motor skill performance, improve cardiovascular risk, improve psychosocial well-being, and most importantly, help to promote positive exercise habits during childhood and adolescence.

Emily Jannis, Ocotillo Village Fitness Director

Keep in mind that these are merely guidelines and children will be at various points along the developmental continuum. This is why having them work with a trained professional is very important. This person is able to take into account a child’s biological age as well as their developmental age and create a program that is appropriate and that the child will benefit from. For example, if a 14-year-old wants to start a weight program but hasn’t been active before or learned proper movement mechanics, they may have to start in one of the earlier stages of the aforementioned model before progressing to the stage associated with their age. At the same time, some children may excel at an earlier age and need to be moved along the stages a little more quickly to prevent boredom and match their needs.

Starting your child in a training program doesn’t have to be for sport-related purposes. Not only is it great for their overall health, similar to adults, but participation in a training program at a younger age has also shown to have long term implications for a healthy lifestyle down the road. It can also improve their self-esteem and confidence.

It’s all about creating a fun and motivating environment for them, and never using exercise as a punishment.

If you have any additional questions regarding what level of training is appropriate for your child, please reach out to any of the Fitness Directors or Personal Trainers at your club.

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Now to answer the most frequently asked question: “At what age should my child start?” The simplest answer is, as soon as they are able to participate in organized sports, which is usually around age 6 or 8. It’s important that your child is at an age where they are able to accept and follow directions, understand safety considerations, and have a decent level of balance and postural control.

With that being said, this doesn’t mean that at age 5 or 6 children should be loading up the weight and trying to squat and bench press. Instead, you should be looking for a trainer who can teach them proper movement skills such as skipping, jumping, running, balance, speed work, and coordination. These activities will be the center of the training sessions until they turn 8 or 9 years old and are mature enough to start the next stage in the longterm athletic development model. From ages 9 – 12 for males and 8 – 11 for females, children should continue to work on agility and speed work but may now progress to bodyweight training and light resistance work with bands. The priority in this stage is learning the proper movement patterns of exercises before heavier loads are applied. There is a saying: “It’s easier to learn a good habit than to unlearn a bad one.” We want kids learning proper

mechanics from the start so they don’t pick up bad habits and have to correct their form in high school or college.

Evidence also supports that children in these stages should be participating in multiple sports as well as unstructured play. Then, as the child enters the next stage (ages 12 – 16 for males and 11 – 15 for females), a more structured weight program can begin, with proper progressions, though the main focus will still be on building their technical skills. The stages that follow are when training becomes more intense, with year-round programs that are highly specialized.

WALKING WELL

DC RANCH VILLAGE MEMBER CHARLIE KESTER

I’m 54, with a beautiful, wonderful wife and two amazing teenage daughters. Skiing, running, hiking, biking, coaching, and participating in sports were always my favorite things to do. Then I was diagnosed with M.S. I always believed that the way out was through hard work.

Work harder and you’ll get it done. For me the only answer to a tough situation was to work harder. Unfortunately, that doesn’t work with M.S. For the longest time after being diagnosed, I couldn’t work out hard enough to even break a sweat.

Multiple Sclerosis is caused by white blood cells attacking the myelin sheath that surrounds nerves and weakening the signal sent down those nerves. Think of the plastic coating that surrounds electrical wire. If there are holes in the wire’s coating, the signal moving down the wire will be weaker.

Same thing with nerves.

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We lived in Seattle when I was diagnosed about 20 years ago.

Despite the fact that Seattle had one of the highest M.S. rates in the world, nobody knew what caused it. Was it the water?

Lack of sunlight? Mold? Since nobody knew what to do, we decided we were going to have to find an answer.

The first thing it takes is support. I’m the luckiest guy in the world in that regard as my wife Andrea and our daughters have had my back the whole way. We decided to move to a place that was sunny and didn’t have nearly as much M.S.

Plus, there was a Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale. As a present our first Christmas here, Andrea and the girls gave me a membership to the Village. Though I didn’t know it then, the pieces I was going to need in order to get better were falling into place.

But first things had to get worse. I coached both of our daughters’ soccer teams the first year and that didn’t go well. Poor energy and lack of mobility are not at the top of anybody’s list for a coach. Next I needed a handicapped parking pass. At the low point, the Mayo Clinic had me on a no walking order—I had to be in a wheelchair when on Mayo Clinic property. Time for a change.

After much research, I discovered an experimental surgery called venous angioplasty that had helped people with M.S. at a clinic in California. Choosing to have it done was easy: I was not able to be the dad or husband I wanted to be and my family deserved. Here was a real chance. After the procedure, which opened cerebral veins so blood and mineral deposits could more easily leave the brain, I felt better immediately. The doctor told me that while this feeling would increase, I would need to learn how to walk again.

I found a neuro physical therapist at the Mayo Clinic who was just the right person to help me with this and over about 20 months, we made great strides. Then one day Sandy, my physical therapist, told me that I was done there. I told her my walk was not normal, I couldn’t run, and still couldn’t go for walks or play on the beach with my daughters. She said maybe there was a personal trainer somewhere who could help me.

Shortly thereafter, a member of the Village told me that Cindy Angulo had helped her after a car wreck. With a Christmas present of a training session from my daughters in hand, I decided to give the belts and bands a try.

That was early 2016, and I’m happy to report that thanks to Cindy and the wonderful Village facility and staff, as well as encouragement from so many wonderful members, I am able to walk for miles, go on hikes, go to sporting events, enjoy concerts with my family, and be a much more helpful and active husband and dad.

Thank you all very much. I would not be doing as well as I am without you. what’s cookin’

FAMILYFOODTRADITION

GOOD LOOKIN’

Most families have at least one recipe passed down from generation to generation. In the past, I have provided holiday dessert recipes that were passed down from my great grandmother to my mother and then to me.

This season I wanted to feature an entrée made for me by my fiancé, Kevin.

Kevin is an excellent cook and his family has an amazing recipe for beef short ribs. His 101-year-old grandmother and aunts still cook this at the holidays for the family.

Chanel Kirkendoll, DC Ranch Village Café Manager

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I did. Always make sure you add a little bit of love to your cooking!

Beef Short Ribs 3lbs of beef short ribs

¼ tsp ground allspice

1 10.5oz can of beef consommé

3 tbsp brown sugar

2 tbsp white vinegar

¼ tsp ground cloves

1 cup dried apricots

¼ tsp ground cinnamon

1 cup dried prunes

ribs are almost done parboiling, preheat oven to 325 degrees and mix the 2 When rest of the ingredients in a 3-quart sauce pan. Bring to a boil and then remove from heat.

3 Place ribs in a casserole dish and cover with sauce. Bake uncovered for 45 minutes.

Start to finish (including prep time) = 3 hours. Serves 6.

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ribs in a stock pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil. Simmer for 1 Place 2 hours until tender. Drain.

Spa sational

we’ll help you

UNWIND

Retinol

(VITAMIN A)

Most of us are familiar with the word “retinol.“ It has been on the market for many years but what is it? Why, after so many years, is it still used in professional skincare treatments and why, with so many advances in skincare, does it remain a popular and favorite ingredient in the products we use at home?

Retinol (vitamin A) is a retinoid which converts to retinoic acid in the skin, where it helps increase cell turnover. In addition, retinol stimulates the production of collagen and elastin and helps even out pigmentation. This process encourages a healthier and brighter looking complexion. With continued use of retinol, skin is smoother and more even toned, with a dramatic improvement in fine lines, wrinkles, and breakouts.

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Cato Seets Aesthetician The Spa at DC Ranch Village

Among a number of retinol products available at the Village Spa is the trio of R-OH Retinol solutions from PCA Skincare®. There is a specific formulation

for each of the major skin concerns: aging, acne, and discoloration. What makes this line of products unique and sets it apart from most other retinol products is the use of a very effective, patented delivery technology called OmniSomeTM. OmniSome is an advanced delivery system that effectively stabilizes the ingredients and also enhances their efficacy. Ingredients are released over ten hours, which allows them to be carried deeper into the skin with less irritation.

The popularity of retinol is easy to understand because it is highly effective and safe for almost all skin types. It delivers dramatic results and is one of the best tools in maintaining healthy-looking skin with little effort and time. Pairing retinol-based professional treatments with a targeted home skincare regimen makes sense for anyone looking to improve, correct, and maintain a beautiful, youthful complexion.

The Village Spas take great care in recruiting only the best service providers in the industry to assure you receive exceptional spa and salon services. Whether you are looking for a quick manicure, a full day of relaxation or a specific therapeutic treatment, we have the diverse staff to ensure your expectations are exceeded.

INTRODUCING THE

Oxygen Rejuvenating Hydration Infusion FACIAL TREATMENT

The Spa at Gainey Village is now featuring one of the newest trending facial treatments. The Oxygen Rejuvenating Hydration Treatment can be seen in use by celebrities and everyday people raving about the results in magazines, on television shows, and all over the internet.

What makes this treatment unique is the combination of three services: exfoliation, infusion, and hydration. Hyaluronic Acid, Tripeptides, and other anti-aging ingredients are deeply absorbed into the skin through the carbon-oxygenation

reaction that occurs during the treatment.

This treatment is safe for any skin type and is recommended monthly for anti-aging maintenance. There is no downtime with this service and skin immediately looks and feels radiant. We recommend doing this treatment either the day before or even the day of any upcoming events for a beautiful, healthy glow. $150.00

ADVANCED BRIGHTENING

FACIAL & PEEL Available at DC Ranch Our Advanced Brightening Facial & 4% Pure Retinol Peel promotes a clear complexion, evens skin tone, and diminishes fine lines and wrinkles. Some peeling and flaking may occur following this treatment. Marigold flower extract provides antioxidant protection, calms the skin, and aids in rejuvenation. An enzymatic peel combines papaya enzymes and alpha hydroxy acid with antioxidant action and anti-inflammatory benefits, aiming to exfoliate, reduce pigmentation, and brighten the skin. Followed by Epidermal Growth Factors, this is designed to jump start the healing process. Includes dermaplane. $195

THE SPA AT CAMELBACK VILLAGE

THE SPA AT DC RANCH VILLAGE

THE SPA AT GAINEY VILLAGE

THE SPA AT OCOTILLO VILLAGE

602.553.4917 Pamella Kerley, Spa Director

480.515.5522 Tracey McGilvray, Spa Director

480.609.6980 Kirk Gregor, Spa Director

480.579.2940 Michelle Sorensen, Spa Director

we’ll help you

UNWIND

WHAT

CUP? the

ALL about FACIAL CUPPING

Ashley Lew Lead Aesthetician The Spa at DC Ranch Village

What is facial cupping?

Facial cupping is a superficial technique used to actively stimulate and encourage the natural drainage flow of the lymph, improve circulation, release fascia stuck to the skin and muscles, and soften repetitive motion wrinkles. Cupping is a therapy that involves silicone cups that create a vacuum or suction to the skin. The pressure of the cup, when activated, stimulates blood flow and lymphatic drainage. This manual technique uses a specific pressure and rhythm to arrive at your desired effect. This technique is easy on your body, unbelievably effective, and fun to do. It can be used as a standalone treatment or as an add-on service. Facial cupping will improve the results of any service or technique that follows.

How does it work?

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The suction effect pulls blood into the area of the skin underneath the cup. This saturates the surrounding tissue with fresh blood and promotes new vessel formation. The vacuum-like suction separates different layers of tissues, resulting in micro-trauma. This triggers an inflammatory response, flooding the area with blood cells, platelets and other healing aids. This suction promotes increased blood circulation which may help relieve muscle tension, promote cell repair, and aid in other regeneration.

How is facial cupping different than body cupping?

Facial cupping is much milder than body cupping.

The cups used are smaller and primarily used to improve complexion and reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Since the cups are not static with facial cupping, there is no bruising as often occurs in body cupping. The movement creates stimulation, moves blood around the face, and drains toxins out through the lymph system.

Contraindications and how to prepare for a facial cupping session It is recommended to avoid any medications that may thin the blood prior to treatment. If you are pregnant, it is recommended to avoid facial cupping.

OCTOBER SPA SPECIAL

Benefits of facial cupping • I ncrease oxygen-rich blood circulation

• Relax symptoms of TMJ • Relieve sinus pressure

•S trengthen skin and connective tissues

• Detoxify skin • Soften and mobilize congestion and sebum

•S timulate cells responsible for collagen production

• Improve nutrient delivery and product absorption

• Lift sagging facial muscles • Plump wrinkles

• Tone chin, jawline, neck and decollétage

• Even complexion • I ncrease production of collagen and elastin

• Brighten skin

• Reduce headaches and migraines

• Minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

Facial cupping and acne

SMASHING PUMPKIN AND YAM FACIAL Offered at Camelback, Gainey, and Ocotillo Accelerate the exfoliation process with this yam and pumpkin enzyme peel that removes dead skin cells and reduces the appearance of pigmentation, fine lines, and sun damage. This delicious purée of yam and pumpkin leaves skin looking firm and radiant.

Cost: $125 includes dermaplane or microdermabrasion.

Add microneedling for $75

By increasing circulation and blood flow, cupping helps to move the toxin buildup in the skin, which reduces heat and inflammation, therefore speeding up the healing process of active breakouts and removing the redness and irritation surrounding these breakouts.

© 2019 Village Health Club & Spas

TIS THE SEASON A Village Spa Gift Card is the perfect gift of choice for whomever receives it this holiday season. Gift Cards can be purchased for a dollar amount or for massage, facial, and and body treatment packages.

Every $100 gift card comes with a $10 card which can be used toward spa services in January 2020.

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say

HELLO

UP

FOR ANYTHING

Ocotillo’s new Membership Director lets her thirst for adventure keep life interesting.

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After graduating from college in Minnesota, Mary Babick moved to Arizona on a whim. She came to the Valley to escape the cold weather, with her college roommate and the man who would become her husband. None of them had jobs.

None of them had connections. But they all had youthful exuberance and the confidence to believe that everything would work out fine.

Fast-forward about ten years and the three transplants are thriving in the desert. Mary’s old roommate is a nurse with Banner Health. Mary’s husband is a successful freight broker.

Mary and her husband have an eight-year-old daughter.

Mary’s mom moved to town and her brother is about to do the same. And now, after five months, Mary is securely ensconced in her position as Membership Director at the Ocotillo Village.

We talked with Mary about the changes that came about when she joined the Village, and how she’s adjusting to her new role.

the village: What did you do before you started working at the Village? mary babick: I was in dentistry for the past eight years, working as director of operations for 14 offices with more than 200 employees.

Why did you give up that career? It broke my heart every day to see kids come in with multiple cavities, and adults who needed root canals and other surgeries. In the areas where our offices were located, people weren’t making their health a priority, no matter how hard we tried to explain the benefits of daily brushing and flossing. I just didn’t want to do reactive health care anymore.

What do you like best about the Village? I love how the club brings everything together under one roof.

I’ve never experienced anything like it. The Village has given me an opportunity to learn all kinds of new skills, like playing tennis and swimming. I’ve learned how to say ‘yes’ to everything.

What’s an example of something you’ve tried? Well, I can’t swim, but someone convinced me to do an indoor triathlon.

How did you do? I actually got second in my age group.

That’s really impressive! Luckily, there were only two people in my age group.

Ha! Have you always been an active person? Before the Village I ran and did weight training. I ran in high school and college, but quickly found out that I wasn’t very fast on my short legs. I’ve run lots of marathons and half-marathons.

What do you do at the Village? I’m involved in many things here. I still lift weights and run, but I also love our group fitness classes and am learning to play tennis.

What do you like to do for fun? I really love music and I’ve been playing the cello for about 10 years now. I was classically trained as a singer, and I still love to sing, but I didn’t have many opportunities after college. So I got my cello to accompany me.

What kinds of music do you play these days? I like taking contemporary music and playing it in the classical style. I also really love performing blues and jazz.

Do you have any other hobbies? I have two wiener dogs, Frank and Birdie. I got really lucky because, for dachshunds, they’re both really quiet and cuddly. My daughter and I also volunteer at the hummingbird habitat at Desert Breeze Park. We both love nature, and it’s fun to do together.

You’ve been only at the Village for a few months, but how has the job been going? I really love it. Everyone here has really positive energy, and that attitude is contagious. I’ve felt incredibly welcomed, and every day my co-workers show me that they believe in my success. The people make my job great, especially my membership team. We work really well together because we’re all very goal oriented, and we support each other in and out of the office.

What kinds of people are attracted to the Ocotillo club? We have a very diverse membership, but it’s interesting to note that the Ocotillo club has a greater percentage of families than any other Village club. The club sells itself because there’s so much for everyone to do here. When a prospective member wonders how they’re going to juggle their time, I relate it to myself. My daughter is eight years old, so I have to build my workouts around her schedule and make sure she’s entertained and well taken care of when she’s here.

Does your daughter love the Village? The first time I brought her here, she said, ‘Mom, this is my dream house!’ She loves Gwynn’s tumbling class, kids yoga, and the Kids’ Club.

Does your husband work out? He’s more of an outdoorsman. He likes to go camping, golf, and grill!

Do you plan on being at the Village for a long time? Oh, definitely. It was an easy transition for me and I’m really loving it. I have a great team behind me and supportive people all around. It’s been a great fit so far and I expect it to continue.

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The Village has opened up lots of new experiences for me, like swimming and tennis.

I’ve learned to say YES ! ­­­— Mary Babick

Namaste

VINYASA

FLOW YOGA

Marissa Ward, NASM-CPT, E-RYT 200HR Village Health Club Instructor

For some, this might be a familiar title on a class schedule. For others, this title can be intimidating.

Every great teacher (and we have a lot here at the Village) should be able to bridge the gap between familiar and foreign. After all, yoga teachers are in the most ideal position to help people change their lives for the better through intentional movement.

Vinyasa is a style of yoga characterized by purposefully, gracefully, and thoughtfully weaving movement with breath. Flow classes are very creative, allowing the instructor freedom in the design and structure of the class. No two classes are ever alike. Every class, however, is around 95 degrees with 30 percent humidity. We encourage students to be mindful of their thoughts, focusing on the breath, which will harmoniously and peacefully lead the way to a moving meditation.

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Your mind will wander. In our practice of yoga, we are practicing quieting the mind always. We hope to create space in between our thoughts, allowing for more mindfulness, clarity, and peace.

This is a practice. It takes patience, humility, resiliency, frustration, doubt, fear, joy, gratitude, and kindness to open ourselves up to tossing away the junk in our minds that doesn’t belong. Eventually, we start to link breath with movement for a moving meditation. So healing. So welcomed. So needed.

Each of us has the freedom of creativity and expression, to enhance and develop a yoga class in

numerous ways. Some teachers prefer a whimsical approach, carefully placing thoughtful insight or inviting reflection into a practice. Others might be proficient in retelling stories of ancient Indian culture.

You might enjoy hearing about the development of yoga as a connection between the soul and body.

There are other teachers who are inspired by the athleticism, delivering the purpose or structure of the pose. Let’s not forget the teachers who are so incredibly skillful in invoking a wide range of emotion through their effortless selection of music. I am certain there is a style of yoga for everyone. Every body. Every heart. Every soul.

I would like to imagine that my Heated Vinyasa Flow classes are rich and textured with all of these components so that no matter where you unroll your mat, you are fully immersed in the present moment.

No doubt your experience will be a peaceful journey.

A time for reflection. A time for compassion. A time for self-care. Ultimately you will feel a very profound connection with your fellow practitioners in the room, and love for time spent on your mat.

‘Namaste’ is traditionally said from the teacher to the student at the end of class. This ancient Sanskrit word, intoned with the hands at heart center, means, “The light and the spirit within me honors the light and the spirit within you.”

5PLAY SITUATIONS

a METHOD for getting the MOST out of your PRACTICE SESSIONS

I recently attended a presentation given by a coach I have admired for many years. His ability to simplify and compartmentalize the game of tennis is truly second to none. The idea of compartmentalizing the game of tennis really aligns with my own teaching philosophy. My focus is on building a solid foundation for players, whether it’s movement or stroke fundamentals. By doing so, my aim is to equip players with the knowledge and ability to self-identify and self-adjust their way through any challenge. Moreover, I’m looking keep the game simple and fun. While we all want to improve our tennis game, we shouldn’t lose focus on having fun and enjoying our time on the court. After all, this is why we play the game.

Ryan Johnson, Camelback Village Tennis Director

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For me, the highlight of the presentation was a discussion on compartmentalizing the game of tennis to facilitate the identification of strengths and weaknesses. I’m going to share my own version of this concept in hopes that it will help channel your focus and direct your efforts to get the most out of your practice sessions.

Let me start by posing a simple question: When you step onto the court, how often do you think of something specific you need to work on? For most, the answer is, not very often.

When playing tennis, at a fundamental level, you are doing one of five things. You are either serving or returning, hitting groundstrokes, playing transitional shots, hitting volleys, or executing overheads. Basically, that’s it. I realize that sounds simple, but so many players overcomplicate this process, or have zero direction when it comes to their practice sessions.

At all levels, we are guilty of just going through the motions.

We believe that if we just hit more balls, we will get better.

By taking an internal audit of your game, you will be able to identify the weaker part(s) and direct your practice sessions toward strengthening these areas of your game. The ability to self-identify and self-adjust are critical to improving your game and becoming a better competitor. While there are certainly variations to these situations, you should start by focusing on the fundamentals, so that you have a simple and efficient approach to getting the most out of your practice sessions.

focus on

KIDS

ROUTINES

Children need routine and consistency in their lives.

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A routine allows them to predict what will be happening around them and thus feel safe. Change and the unknown can be challenging for children who are still trying to learn about their environment.

A strong home routine takes the pressure of deciding what to do next off of kids, and helps them feel like they are experts in how their home functions. This reduces the frequency of tantrums in young kids, and helps older ones gain confidence. If you notice that getting out the door in the morning is always fraught with bad attitudes and blowups, try setting up a predictable wakeup and breakfast routine that the kids understand and can predict. You can explain this change and the benefits to them in simple terms to your kids. You might even find that kids want to contribute in organizing the routines for their day. Offering simple choices like “On school days, would you like to have breakfast first, or get dressed first?” redirects their attention to a choice that gives them some power, but still keeps the morning on track. This kind of collaboration will help them be compliant with your requests next time.

Consider creating routines for: •B edtime/Naptimes • Meals • Getting ready for school or daycare • Doing homework • Occasional events like health checkups Sabrina Bordeaux, DC Ranch Village Youth Services Director

KIDS up and

COMING CAMPS Daily Sports Camps and School Break Camps

C•

9 AM – 3 PM FALL BREAK: MON – FRI, OCT. 7 – 11; MON, NOV 11 WINTER BREAK: DEC 23, 26, 27, 30, + 31, JAN 2 + 3

C•

Camp Village Kids Junior

9 AM – 1 PM FALL BREAK: MON – FRI, OCT. 7 – 11; MON, NOV 11 WINTER BREAK: DEC 23, 26, 27, 30, + 31, JAN 2 + 3

KE Y event location

C • Camelback D • DC Ranch G • Gainey

FAMILY E VENTS D•

Jack-O’-Lantern Jamboree

SAT, OCT 12, 10 AM – NOON

G•

Boo Bash

O • Ocotillo C•

Family Fun Turkey Trot

THURS, NOV 28, 9 AM

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Pancakes with Santa

FRI, OCT 25, 4:30 – 6:30 PM

SAT, DEC 7, 9 – 11 AM

O • Haunted Carnival presented by junior members

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FRI, OCT 25, 6 – 8 PM

D•

D•

Turkey Trot ‘Till You Drop!

THURS, NOV 14, 4 – 6 PM

Detailed information can be found in the Quarterly Event & Program Guide.

Santa and Snow

SUN, DEC 8, 10 – 11:30 AM

Frosty Fest

SAT, DEC 14, 9 AM – NOON

O•

Breakfast with Santa

SAT, DEC 14, 9 – 11 AM

SPORTS C•

Junior Squash League

WEDNESDAYS + THURSDAYS, 4 – 5 PM AGES: 6 – 14 COST: $150 FOR MONTH OR $30 DROP IN PER CLASS

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Youth Services Classes

PICK ANY FOUR CLASSES FOR $20/MONTH

MONDAY BOOT CAMP CIRCUITS

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Village Vipers Swim Team and Swim Lessons

AGES: 5 – 10, 4:30 – 5 PM

YEAR ROUND

AGES: 2 – 5, 10:45 – 11:15 AM + 11:15 – 11:45 AM

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Swim Stroke School

TUESDAYS + THURSDAYS, 4 + 5 PM.

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Yoga Youth Teacher Training

BEGINS JAN 2020.

SUN, OCT 13, 3 PM: YOGA YOUTH TEACHER TRAINING MEET & GREET; SAT, NOV 30: EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINE

TUESDAY YOGA FOR TOTS WEDNESDAY MUSIC MOVEMENT AGES: 5 – 10, 4:30 – 5 PM

THURSDAY ADVANCED JR. KINESIS AGES: 9 – 14, 4:30 – 5 PM

FRIDAY TUMBLING FOR TOTS AGES: 2 – 5, 9:30 – 10 AM + 10 – 10:30 AM

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Fun Fitness Classes

SATURDAYS, 11 AM – NOON + 2 – 3 PM, SUNDAYS, 9 – 10 AM AGES: 3 – 12

YOUTH SERVICES O•

Family Night

2ND FRIDAY EACH MONTH, OCT 11 + SAT, NOV 8, 6 – 8 PM Free event for the whole family!

C•

Drop ‘n’ Shop

SATURDAYS, DEC 7 + 21; SUN, DEC 8 + 22; 2 – 6 PM

Drop ‘n’ Shop

FRI, DEC 13 + SAT, DEC 21, NOON – 4 PM, AGES: 8 WEEKS – 12 YEARS AGES: 8 WEEKS–12 YEARS

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Drop ‘n’ Shop

FRI, DEC 13 +V SAT, DEC 21, NOON – 4 PM

C•

Parents’ Day Out

SATURDAYS, OCT 26 + NOV 16, 2 – 6 PM

Parents’ Day Out

2ND SATURDAY EACH MONTH, OCT 12 + NOV 9, NOON – 4 PM AGES: 8 WEEKS – 12 YEARS

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Parents’ Night Out

FRI, NOV 8, 5 – 9 PM

G•

Parents’ Night Out

FRIDAYS, OCT 11, NOV 15 + DEC 13, 5:30 – 9:30 PM

O•

Parents’ Night Out

1ST AND 3RD FRIDAY EACH MONTH, OCT 4 + 18, NOV 1 + 15, DEC 6 + 20, 5:30 – 9:30 PM AGES: 8 WEEKS – 12 YEARS

O•

Junior Night

4TH FRIDAY EACH MONTH, OCT 25, NOV 22, DEC 27, 6 – 9 PM AGES: 10 – 14

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O•

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focus on

MEMBERS

MOM’S THE WORD

From Casino Nights to Zumba classes, this mother of two does it all at the Village. She says she’s a Village member to keep up with her kids, but Brittany Zaharaopoulos is a bundle of energy who takes advantage of everything the Camelback club has to offer.

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After having her first child six years ago, Brittany sought out the Village to help smooth the transition from having a career as a registered dietitian to becoming a stay-at-home mom. “It was a big lifestyle change for me,” she recalls. “The Village really saved me.”

Now with two children in tow, Brittany has become a regular fixture at the club, regularly spending three or more hours a day in what’s become her second home. “I play tennis, lift weights, take Zumba, spin, barre, and yoga classes, eat at the Café, get my nails done and massages at the Spa and Salon, and use the childcare services,” she says. “I love the community atmosphere here.”

Brittany is flabbergasted by people who join the Village and don’t use it. “A neighbor of mine told me that she wasn’t sure if she was a member or not,” Brittany says. “This place makes me so happy I can’t imagine not being here.”

We met with Brittany at the Camelback club, after her workout and before she met her husband and kids for lunch

in the Café. She talked about how the club nourishes her mind, body, and spirit, and she even shared the recipe for her famous Protein Balls. the village: How did you come to join the Village??

brittany zaharaopoulos: A neighbor recommended it to me, after my son was born. She said it was a great place for moms, and she was so right!

Why do moms like the Village so much? Being a mom can be stressful, so it’s nice to know that I can bring my kids to a safe place where they’ll have fun, while I can visit with friends, exercise, and take a shower. But it goes a lot deeper than that. One time, both my kids had a complete meltdown in front of the Spa. They were crying and I was starting to cry. A woman came out of the Spa and asked me if the kids were going upstairs. I said yes, and she told me to come back and they’d give me a free massage if I wanted it. That’s the level of caring the Village provides. That amazing act of kindness made a hard day so much easier.

So the Village helps you recharge? Yes, and in so many ways. There’s a Yoga Nidra class that people call Mommy Nap Time. Basically, you go in, grab a mat, and lay there while the instructor leads a guided meditation. I always feel energized whenever I take that class, which definitely conks me out sometimes.

Some people call you the Mayor of Camelback Village. How did you get that nickname? When Ryan, the tennis director, started working here, he was scouting out friends for his wife. He introduced me to her because I’m very social. We hit it off right away and she was amazed at how many people knew me whenever we were at the club together. She gave me the nickname and we’ve been great friends ever since.

Tennis has become a big part of your life since you joined the Village. How did that happen? I never played tennis before, but I was always an athlete and I wanted to give it a try because it’s such a big part of this club. I was a little intimidated before I got started, but as soon as I took a lesson and met the people involved, I knew it would be great fun. I started out taking cardio tennis classes and tennis bootcamps, and I attended different tennis mixers. After taking about ten lessons, a friend of mine and I signed up for a Club Dubs tournament. We lost in a tie-breaker, so we were pretty proud of ourselves.

Now I’m on a women’s league and I’m thinking of becoming team captain.

fall 2019

That sounds like a big commitment… During the fall season, I take one clinic and play one match each week, in addition to what I normally do at the Village. In the summer I try to play at least once a week in the evenings, just to keep my skills sharp. As far as any captain responsibilities, I really like organizing things and I’ve become known for my protein balls.

Your protein balls? They’re really great! I use vegan protein powder mixed with agave nectar, rolled oats, almond butter, and cacao nibs. You don’t need to bake anything, you just mix the ingredients together, throw the mixture in the fridge, and then roll it into little balls. They’re really terrific if you need a burst of energy during a workout. My husband, my kids, and my tennis friends all love them, and I make a big batch every week.

Are you a vegan? I call myself a flexitarian. I don’t want to be too rigid about anything.

It’s really all about balance, and no one has to be ashamed to have a drink or something like that in front of me. I do love the vegan protein powder.

What’s the best nutrition advice you can give to people? I tell people to have an 80/20 relationship with what they eat. Food is fuel, and 80 percent of your diet should be as clean as possible. But food is also about fun and togetherness, so I tell people that 20 percent of their diet should consist of what I call happy calories. If you treat yourself to chocolate or wine once in a while and don’t go overboard, you’re less likely to go on an eating binge. Again, it’s all about balance!

What if you mess up? I tell people to get right back on track at their next snack or meal, not the next day. If you wait a day, you’re going to do a lot more damage.

Any tips for people who work out? It’s important to have protein within 20 minutes of a workout, and it’s also critical to replace your electrolytes. I prefer electrolyte powder or tablets to drinks like Gatorade. Bananas are also good.

What are the best things to order at the Village Café? Everything is so good there.

I eat a lot of the breakfast bowls with quinoa, egg whites, and vegetables, and the salads are fantastic, too.

It sounds like you’ve created a wonderful life for yourself and your family.

It’s really wonderful being part of the Village. When my mother-in-law was visiting us and we first brought her to the Village, she said she’d be there every day just like me.

• 1 cup vegan chocolate protein powder • 1 cup almond butter • 1 cup gluten-free rolled oats • 1/2 cup cacao nibs • 1/2 cup agave nectar • 1/2 cup slivered almond (optional) Put all ingredients in a large bowl and mix with a hand mixer, or use a food processor. Refrigerate for two hours, then roll into balls. You can eat these protein balls for up to one week if kept refrigerated.

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You must be a great role model for your kids! My husband and I are both very active and our kids already love the Village. Before long, they’ll be done with the Kids’ Club and will be doing their own things, so it’s important to set an example of the benefits of an active lifestyle. My son loves to play basketball and my daughter likes to dribble the ball, so we spend some time on the basketball court every day. Like a lot of six-year-olds, my son wants to be a professional baseball player.

Brittany’s Famous Protein Ball Recipe

focus on MEMBERS

Trivia Night at the Porch Arcadia C •

Camelback Village members noshed on munchies and tapped their noggins to win prizes.

D •

Women’s Connection Group

The DC Ranch Women’s group had a fun outing at Saguaro Lake for a Stand-Up Paddle-Boarding adventure. Each month we plan an outing for all the ladies at DC Ranch, allowing them to connect with one another. We welcome you and a guest to join us at any time!

PHOTOS

30

SUMMER 2019

To have your Village Club event photo considered for the Focus on Members section next issue, please email it, with a short caption, to hmcmanus@dmbclubs.com (Camelback); ehubber@dmbclubs.com (DC Ranch); smcgann@dmbclubs.com (Gainey); or rkinney@dmbclubs.com (Ocotillo).

C •

Water to Wine

After a kayak trip down the Verde River, Village members enjoyed sipping Arizona’s famous Alcantara wine.

G •

Monthly Cooking Classes

The monthly cooking classes are a huge hit at Gainey Village! Make sure to check your email or the flyer wall at Gainey for the next one!

Dive-In Movie

Kids enjoyed floating in the pool while watching Smallfoot.

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D •

OH,

THE PLACES YOU’LL GO VILLAGE CLUB TRIPS

Judi Buterbaugh, Camelback Village Member Integration

Today is your day. You’re off to Great Places! You’re off and away!

If these simple yet poignant words of Dr. Seuss are calling, we hear you! Cuba, Switzerland, Croatia, oh my! These are just a few of the amazing places our Village members can experience in the next year with our fabulous club trips. Our trips are organized and led by Village employees who will guide you through the entire process, from registration to making sure you have a great time on your vacation! All of our international trips are booked through professional tour companies, so all details are taken care of.

Here’s a sampling of what’s in store for our travelers: •O ur Treasures of Croatia tour, Oct. 13 – 20, will allow you to experience the many delights of this beautiful country!

•T he Best of Cuba trip, Nov. 2 – 9, offers experiences in a country that most of us have not been able to visit before.

From walking tours of Old Havana to riding in classic cars and visiting a cigar factory, this tour will include it all!

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• In 2020, we’ll offer a South African Culinary Getaway, June 30 – July 11, hosted by Whisked Away owner Maggi Norris. Your visit will be filled with cooking classes, wine tastings, a safari, and much more! It’s sure to be the culinary trip of a lifetime!

• If your bucket list includes hiking the highest freestanding mountain in the world, then join us July 13 – 25, 2020, for our Mt. Kilimanjaro trip! This trip includes community service to help the local schools while getting you acclimated for the high altitude.

• August 17 – 22, 2020, is our Village Swiss Alps Adventure Hike from Interlaken to Zermatt. What a gorgeous trip this will be!

• From Oct. 10 – 17, 2020, we’ll be taking a group to Portugal to walk the Camino de Santiago trail. This historic pilgrimage, known as the Way of St. James, dates back to the later middle ages and covers beautiful countryside. It is considered by many a journey to put a certain phase of their lives behind them, or to start a new chapter. At any rate, it is a trip to be experienced!

If you don’t have a friend to travel with, don’t worry. We’ll be happy to introduce you to others and make sure you never feel alone on the journey. If you’re unsure about what the experience will be like, please contact us and we’ll put your mind at ease. We’ve taken members on trips for over 20 years, and the friendships and memories that are forged are priceless.

Maybe a trip involving a passport isn’t on your agenda this year. We also offer one-day and weekend hikes in cooler locations, long weekends in Telluride (both a summer excursion as well as ski trips), a trip to Canyon Ranch in Tucson, Water to Wine River Rafting, hiking Havasupai and the Grand Canyon, and so many more!

The moments we experience in life can never be changed and the memories we make from our adventures will only grow richer as we age. So, we’ll leave you with a few more words of wisdom from the great Dr. Seuss: Be your name Buxbaum or Bixby or Bray or Mordecai Ali Van Allen O’Shea, you’re off to Great Places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting. So…get on your way!

CONTROLOGY THE PILATES CORNER

Joseph Pilates dubbed his method of training “Contrology.” It has become known simply as Pilates in honor of the man who created it. But what did he mean when he decided to call his method Contrology? Let’s look at the word. It’s a made-up word but the root of it is clear: control as a science.

He carefully thought out the method for his training regimen. Pilates is system of exercises that, when enacted upon a body, create strength and mobility.

All three of these words are incredibly significant when a trainer is imparting the essence of an exercise to a client. Executing an exercise without these three things would equal empty movement. Trainers are charged with teaching clients to embrace these terms in order to find the neural connections with which they can fully experience the intensity of each exercise.

That doesn’t always happen right away.

It has been my experience that clients will tell me after a few months of training have passed that now they “get it.” Eureka!! Your life will change when your connectivity to your body becomes more precise: you will gain awareness and you will feel the control.

Linda Hertzberg, Camelback Village Pilates and Gyrotonics Trainer

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But there must be precision when teaching each exercise in order to train each person how to experience control over their body’s movement.

Watch a ballerina move and you can quickly understand how beautifully mobile, how fluid, how strong and aware she is. That awareness is what Joseph Pilates was trying to pass along to his teacher trainers and all of the clients that wanted to know and live the benefits of this style of training. The bar was set high.

Control, Precision, and Awareness

SPOT SOCIAL Coming to a Village event and want to let your friends know ?

Cori Crenshaw, Village Digital Media

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Marketing Manager

Share it on social media! There’s no better way to get your friends to come along or to find out which friends are going to a certain event. Someone might be thinking of attending but won’t officially decide to go until they see that you are going. For certain events, we will have a Facebook Event created for

you to RSVP right there, which provides an easy way to share it out to all of your friends. If not, just share out the link to the event on our Event Calendar on the website. This way you can stay in touch with your Village community online as well as in the club!

There’s no easier way to make plans with your friends.

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Happy, Heathly Holiday Season!

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