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November, 2009 – Health and Fitness

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November, 2009 – Health and Fitness

Health & Fitnesscheryl-alker-0909

Flexibility – The Long and Short of It 

By Cheryl Alker

Many of us are striving to become physically fit, but what is true physical fitness and how do we achieve it? 

The President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports – a study group sponsored by the U.S. Government – declines to offer a simple definition. Instead, it has named the five following components: 

 

  • Body Composition
  • Cardiovascular Fitness 
  • Flexibility
  • Muscular Endurance
  • Muscle Strength

Therefore, to be truly physically fit, all of the above five referenced should be addressed. 

Over forthcoming issues of Around Wellington we will dissect each individual component, its definition, and how to safely and effectively train to achieve it. 

Flexibility 

Flexibility is the most underestimated component and the one people least know how to achieve effectively. The definition of flexibility is range of movement at a joint. Whilst this definition clearly refers to the bones, it is the muscles that effect the movement of each joint. Therefore, it is the muscles that need to be stretched to achieve full and functional range of movement. 

When muscles are short and tight they draw bones closer together, resulting in poor range of movement, poor posture, poor functionality and often pain and discomfort.  

Me stretching - band stretch

There are many types of stretching, but to achieve increased flexibility static (held) stretching is the most effective.Understanding where the muscle you are stretching starts(origin), where it finishes (insertion) and how it affects the movement of the joint is vital to achieving success. A basic anatomy book will show you this, or, if you go to a gym, ask your trainer – if they don’t know find another trainer or gym QUICKLY! 

 

Benefits of Stretching 

  • Stretching increases flexibility. Flexible muscles can improve your daily performance. Tasks such as lifting, bending, carrying shopping bags and hurrying to catch a bus become easier and less tiring.
  • Stretching improves range of motion. A good range of motion at the joint will keep the joint healthy promoting natural lubrication of the joint. Mobility also promotes balance and you will become less prone to injury − especially as you age.  
  • Stretching improves circulation. Stretching increases blood flow to your muscles, which in turn can speed recovery after muscular injury. 
  • Stretching improves posture. Frequent stretching allows the skeleton to sit in neutral alignment (the way it was intended). Short tight muscles draw bones closer together and force the body out of alignment, leading to lower and upper back problems, neck, shoulder and jaw pain .
  • Stretching can relieve stress. Stretching relaxes the tense muscles that often accompany stress.
  • Stretching can change your body shape. Stretching can literally lift the body opening out the shoulder girdle, which in turn lifts the ribcage reducing the waistline, lifting the buttocks and increasing energy levels.
  • Stretching may help prevent injury. Increased range of motion at the joint can protect you from injury.
  • Stretching enhances sport performance. Improved joint mobility is essential in all types of sporting activities. 

 How To Stretch For Results 

  • Target major muscle groups. Focus on the front and back of the thighs, calves, buttocks, chest also stretch muscles that you routinely work every day.
  • Warm up first. Cold muscles will increase your risk of injury. Take a short brisk walk and mobilize your joints first or stretch after your workout.
  • Hold stretches for at least one minute. It takes time to lengthen tissues safely. Also, time must be allowed for correct alignment. Continually assess body alignment and learn to explore the muscle by changing leg arm or upper body position and weight applied.
  • Don’t bounce. Bouncing as you stretch can cause small tears in the muscle.  These tears leave scar tissue as the muscle heals which tightens the muscle even further – making you less flexible and more prone to pain.   
  • Focus on a pain-free stretch. Expect to feel tension while you are stretching, but not pain. You should take the stretch to the point where you feel tension and then hold it; the feeling should go away after approximately 20 seconds. However, if it increases and the leg starts to shake, back off and start the process again, but more slowly this time.
  • Relax and breathe freely. Do not hold your breath while you are stretching. Results will be far greater if you increase the stretch towards the end of the out-breath.
  • Learn some basic anatomy. Understand where the muscle you are stretching starts (origin) and where it finishes (insertion), and learn how to move these two points away from each other.

Half moon stretch
Half moon stretch

How often you stretch is entirely up to you. As a general rule, stretch whenever you exercise; however, do not fall into the trap of only allocating three minutes at the end of your workout − dedicate the time and focus it deserves. Far greater results will be achieved when a mind/body connection is made. If you are fortunate enough to have a personal trainer, ask them if they can dedicate at least one of your sessions per week solely to flexibility. Ask your gym if they will offer pure flexibility classes, and find a trainer who specializes in flexibility training. If you do not exercise regularly, you may want to stretch at least three times a week. If you have a problem area, such as tightness in your lower or upper back, you may want to stretch every day or even twice a day. 

You don’t need to be a member of gym to stretch; you can do it at home, at work or outside − there are no limits. You should exercise caution if you have a chronic condition or an injury. For example if you have a strained muscle, stretching it may cause further harm. Consult with your doctor or a physical therapist if in doubt.

Cheryl Alker specializes in flexibility training, facial exercises and postural alignment. Her 26-year career began as a group fitness and personal trainer. She has lectured and directed fitness training programs in both Europe and the USA and was an advisor for a British governmental health promotion program. Alker and her company Stretch Results International continues to work with a select clientele from a base in Palm Beach County, certifying health professionals in her results-based stretching program, educating consumers through public speaking and offering consultation to clients who wish to lose their muscular pain and gain flexibility to achieve full and active lifestyles. Her program has been accredited with The National Association of Sports Medicine, The American Council of Exercise, The National Strength and Conditioning Association and The Florida Physical Therapy Association. For more information about professional continuing education and consultation options, please call Cheryl at (561) 889 3738 or visit www.stretchresults.com.

November, 2009 – The Benny Hill Hospital Franchise

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November, 2009 – The Benny Hill Hospital Franchise

CANTANKEROUSLY YOURS

by Wendell Abern

The Benny Hill Hospital FranchiseWendell Abern

Dear Healthcare Reformers and Worriers,Wendell Abern can be reached at [email protected].

      About five years ago, my wife spent a week at a hospital so filled with hapless bumblers, I dubbed it The Benny Hill Hospital.

      It seems that Benny Hill Enterprises is now franchising its expertise.  Since my wife’s stay, I have discovered all kinds of hospitals, clinics and healthcare facilities employing Benny Hill techniques.

      The latest happens to be the clinic where most of our doctors

practice.  

      Last month, after trying to reach several doctors, I called the clinic’s office and asked to speak to the administrator, a person I will call Freddy Fumbles.

      “Fumbles here.  May I help you?”

      “Yes, I would like to report one of your assistant nurses for violating clinic policy.”

      “Goodness.  What did she do?”  

      “She answered the phone.”

      “Excuse me?” 

        “She answered the phone.  Clearly, a criminal offense at your clinic.”

      “Sir, I – “

      “But she may be new, so please don’t be too hard on her.”

      “Sir, we do not have a policy – “

      “In her defense, she did put me on hold for seventeen minutes.  So please give her credit for that.”

      “Good-bye, sir.”

      Two weeks ago, after once again trying to reach several doctors, I called the Gynecology Department.

      “Gynecology, this is Martha, how can I help you?”

      “Martha, I promise not to report you for answering the phone.”

      “Excuse me?”

      “I’m calling to find out about this PMS thing.”

      “For your wife?”

      “No, for me.  See, every time I call the clinic, someone puts me on hold and the next thing I know, I’m listening to a recorded announcement about your gynecology department, and ways to handle PMS.”

      “Sir, I’m busy –“

      “Look, I’m really worried about my PMS problems.  I mean, I ate an entire three-pound salami yesterday.”

      “Good-bye, sir.” 

      And then there’s the new Benny Hill Hospital.  Before Benny and his minions took over, I spent some time in it myself.  Superb experience.  Run so impeccably, I sent a letter to the chief administrator telling him what a fine staff of nurses and technicians he had.

      He never responded.

      Last week, my wife spent 26 hours in this new Benny Hill version. 

      She entered at one P.M. on the first day.  They brought her lunch, which she was eating when the technician from the lab showed up.

      “Hey, you’re not supposed to eat that!” he said.  “You’re scheduled for an ultra sound!  You can’t eat before you have an ultra sound!”

      “No one told me.  And apparently, no one told the kitchen.”

      “Well, now we’re going to have to wait another four hours.”

      We waited another four hours.  They came with a wheelchair, and as they wheeled my wife out of her room, she shouted, “Don’t let the kitchen forget to bring me dinner.”

       I called the kitchen.  They told me my wife wasn’t supposed to have any food because she was having an ultra sound.

        “No, see, that was this afternoon,” I said as patiently as possible.  “She shouldn’t have had any food this afternoon.  But she’s having the ultra sound now, so she will want dinner.”

      “No one told us.”

      The ultra sound took less than a half-hour.  My wife was back in her room by six o-clock.  After much badgering, they brought my wife’s dinner at 7:40. 

      The ultra sound revealed some cysts in my wife’s liver, so the doctor scheduled a CT scan for the next afternoon, with orders she was to

have nothing to eat or drink beforehand.

      I was there the next morning when the kitchen brought breakfast. “She’s not supposed to eat until after her CT scan!” I shouted.

      “Oh.  No one told us.”

      I suddenly realized I hadn’t really learned how to communicate in Benny Hill language.  Testing the waters, I said, “But make sure she gets her lunch on time.”

      They didn’t bring her any.  It worked!

      I had it!  I now had a glimmer of how Benny Hillspeak works!   

      Someone says “do,” you don’t.  Someone says, “don’t,” you do.  And if you get something wrong, you just say, “No one told me!”  How easy is that? 

      My wife’s CT scan revealed an irregularity in the liver; she was also diagnosed with diabetes.  The doctor scheduled a liver biopsy the next

day, and ordered a special diet with insulin pills.

   The next day at noon, nurses gave my wife insulin and heparin, a blood thinner.  When she went down to the lab to have the biopsy, the doctor asked her if heparin had been given to her.

      “Yes,” she said.  “An hour or so ago.”

      “What!  Why?  You can’t have heparin!  That’s a blood thinner, for God’s sake!  I can’t give you a biopsy now.”

      They wheeled my wife back upstairs at two, where I was waiting impatiently to take her home.  We had to wait another day.

      After the biopsy the next day, my wife said, “We should be out of here by six.”

      However, we were at a Benny Hill franchise.  I was taking no chances.

      At five o’clock, I marched out to the nurses’ desk and said, “Okay,

who do I have to sleep with in order to get out of here at six o’clock?”

      Threatened by the mere thought of this prospect, the nurses galvanized into frenzied action, calling doctors, phoning the lab, sending nurses’ assistants scurrying into the nether regions of the floor, popping into the room with papers to sign, unfastening Carol’s IV, showing up with a wheelchair, and zipping us out of there by 6:20.  I haven’t seen any woman move that fast since I tried to kiss Audrey Stern after our first date.

      We have been home now for five days.  On the second day, I called the hospital administrator to tell him how unhappy I was with everything. 

      No one answered.  Benny Hill would be proud.

      Cantankerously Yours,

      Wendell Abern

 

 

November, 2009 – Lighten Up with Lisa

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November, 2009 – Lighten Up with Lisa

Lighten Up with Lisa

By Lisa Dawn Wax

 

Recalling past history to urge us onward!

Lightworker Lisa
Lightworker Lisa

The year was 1898. It was hurricane season, hot and humid.  It was the time of the Spanish-American war, which resulted in the liberation of Cuba from Spain and gave the US control over Puerto Rico, Guam and the Philippines. Teddy Roosevelt, prior to becoming our 26th president, valiantly and victoriously led a volunteer cavalry group consisting primarily of cowboys, prospectors, gamblers and Indians. They were called “The Rough Riders.”

These were the words that inspired them.

    The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena; whose face is marred by sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs and comes up short again and again because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotion; spends himself in a worthy cause; who at best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement; and who at worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who have never tasted victory or defeat.

    Theodore Roosevelt

The year is 2009.  It is the end of hurricane season, still hot and humid. America is at war in the Mideast, but what looms even larger is the war being waged within the American people and within the American souls.  As summer turns to fall and Thanksgiving is upon us I have turned my attention to a gift from my husband, a necklace, in search of a renewed source of optimism. The necklace consists of 3 heart shaped charms with the following inscriptions, EMBRACE LIFE, PASSION, and GRATITUDE. This brave soul is daring greatly to believe that living these three words will help to win the war within.

  1. PASSION – In a time when most of us want to stay in bed, pull the sheets over our heads and be the proverbial ostrich with our heads in the sand how do we pull ourselves up from our bootstraps and charge ahead?  First, we must find (or remember) our passion.  This is different for everyone so don’t try to look to someone else’s passion.  For some it is a love of nature, a sport, a job, or a hobby, while for others it is their family or their religion and God – their faith. Your passion is something that has the power to lift you out of your ruts, your funks, your downward spiraling negativity and breathe renewed life into your souls that are searching for peace and happiness. Take a few moments to find your passion.
  2. GRATITUDE – Rabbi Marc Gellman of the newspaper advice column, The God Squad, recently wrote that when people have trouble finding their faith he starts by asking the question, “Do you feel you’ve been given more than you deserve?”  He then says, “If they say yes, as they always do, I ask what they’re going to do to show gratitude for their grace/luck/blessings.”  Now, I know this is a really tough time for most of you. I know the poor economy has touched everyone in one way or another, some worse than others. I know this might seem like an impossible task, but I also know that we can do it. I’m sure we can all find at least one thing in our lives to still be grateful for.  Most of us don’t even need to look too hard or too far. Thank your kids for their smiles that make you smile. Thank your spouse for the shoulder to cry on when you can no longer hold back the tears. Thank your friends for having an ear to bend. Thank the bars for Happy Hours and Ladies Nights! Though our faces may be “marred with blood and sweat,” we must recognize our blessings so that we may find the strength to triumph.

    3. 3. EMBRACE LIFE – Once again I feel as if I have brought up a topic that stirs the pot with the hope that I have stirred up something already brewing beneath the surface. I am trying to have you look inward so that you can move onward. We cannot ignore what we are facing or what we are feeling, but that’s OK!  Elizabeth Lesser wrote in her book Broken Open:


    “To be human is to be lost in the woods.  None of us arrives here with clear directions on how to get form point A to point B without stumbling into the forest of confusion or catastrophe or wrongdoing. Although they are dark and dangerous, it is in the woods that we discover our strengths.”

    In my last column I wrote how even negative life experiences should be perceived as a Lucky Charm, an opportunity for growth and a place to find strength. Whether you are currently facing one of the best times of your life or even one of the worst, you can embrace your life with grace.  You can vow to be enthusiastic and devoted to a very worthy cause, a life well lived. 

So, saddle up Rough Riders of Wellington, jump on your high horse, raise up your sword and strive valiantly even though you may err and come up short, but in the end DO NOT be amongst the cold and timid souls. I am urging you to seek out and hold onto your faith and to embrace life with passion and gratitude.

HAVE A VERY HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Until next time, may your days be brighter and your lives be lighter.

 

Lisa Dawn Wax, aka Lightworker Lisa, has been certified in Massage Therapy, Fitness Training and Reiki Healing for over 15 years. In addition to being a born Lightworker she is a certified Angel Healing Practitioner; both of which basically confirm her intuitive abilities to help, heal and teach. Using reiki (energy healing), divine messages and intuitive readings, she has helped many people to identify the source of their pain, clarify current life situations, and successfully redirect their focus into positive channels. If you’d like to share comments about this article or if you are in need of affordable healing and/or life coaching via divine inspiration with immediate results, please call her at 561-594-3948 or visit her new website www.lightworkerlisa.com.

November, 2009 – Teen Talk

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November, 2009 – Teen Talk

evan-baumelTEEN TALK

by Evan Baumel

The College Game

In case you were wondering, November 1 is (or was) the deadline for what is known as Early Action and Early Decision college applications. Currently, my paperwork is complete. I’ve sent out my teacher recommendations, transcripts, and essays. Now I am waiting to hear from the schools themselves. Depending on the college, I hope to be notified anytime from December to April.

      While I’m waiting, I would like to share some tips with you regarding this arduous process. The first and one of the most important suggestions is to apply to more than one college. If you are denied admission to your first choice, you still have “safety” schools that may accept you.

      Seniors, by now you should have finished or almost completed your college applications. Most of the Florida state schools allow you to have their applications filled in online. Some private colleges prefer you use the “Common Application,” which allows you to apply to several schools at once (unfortunately, the state schools are not included). By now, you should have registered or have taken the SAT or ACT exams. Your score can help you determine which schools you qualify for. This information can be found online or from your guidance counselor. Some private universities require or recommend interviews, while the state schools do not.

      Juniors, if you are planning on attending college, this is a very important year. Work hard and keep your grades up, because colleges look at your junior year transcripts very closely. Think about visiting some of the campuses you are interested in during spring break or summertime. Perhaps make a family vacation of it. Hopefully, you have taken the PSAT by now. Your scores will reflect your academic strengths and weaknesses. You have six to twelve months to prepare for the SATs and ACTs. Note that the ACT scores are as respected and considered of high importance, just as the SATs are. The two tests have significant differences, so speak to your guidance counselor to determine which test is best suitable for you. Most book stores have SAT/ACT prep books with several full practice exams. Personally, I preferred to concentrate on preparing for the ACT more than the SAT. It’s something to think about.

      Freshman and sophomores, start developing your essay writing skills. It is one of the most important aspects of the college application process. The Common Application allows you to submit the same essay for each school. State schools will give you a variety of topics to choose from. If you can, try to take a few honors and AP courses. Not only are they scored on a higher scale, but they also allow you to simulate a rigorous college course load.

      The college admission process is becoming more competitive than ever before. From the day you enter high school, you are preparing for the day you leave it. It is what you do in between that makes a difference. Balance your extracurricular activities with your academics. Colleges are looking for excellence in both. Let the games begin!

 

Evan Baumel is a senior at Wellington High School. He’s involved in Debate, National Honor Society, Key Club, politics and writes for the school newspaper.

November, 2009 – As I Was Saying

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November, 2009 – As I Was Saying

AS I WAS SAYINGAlan Williamson

Floored

by Alan Williamson

“I can’t stand this carpet anymore, it’s disgusting,” my wife said one day out of the blue. Not quite hearing her right, I thought she said “I can’t stand this country anymore, it’s disgusting” and wholeheartedly agreed that we should take the initiative and do something about it.

“I don’t like what I’m seeing either, haven’t for quite a while,” I confided. “I’m glad we’re on the same page with this. Let’s put our heads together, commit some real time and energy, and do something meaningful, something transformational.”

“Great,” Sherry said. “I was thinking of putting a wood floor in the dining room and berber or frieze carpeting through the rest of the house.”

“I’m sorry, what?” Suddenly, that “same page” I thought we were on was a page in a whole different book written in another language.

“I know, I know, I’ve never been a wood person, but I was thinking it would really set the dining room off from the rest of the house,” Sherry clarified.

“You want to change the flooring throughout the whole house?”

“Well, not the kitchen and family room, but everything else. Did you have something different in mind?

“Well, since you asked, I was thinking of influencing social and economic change through a personal investment in political activism,” I cheerfully professed.

“Excuse me?” The testiness of those two words didn’t bode well for Sherry’s openness to go in a different direction.

“Or wood in the dining room, carpet in the rest of the house – what you said,” I countered, slickly correcting course.

“Good I’ll make some calls.”

So began our home reflooring project, or to put it more accurately, our “Move Everything We Own From 90 percent of the House and Put it in 10 Percent of the House While We Camp Out in a Tiny Corner of the Kitchen Project.”

When you’ve lived in the same house for a long time, things have a way of accumulating. In our home, the contents can be divided into three distinct categories: furniture and accessories, home electronics, and the staggering flea market-size collection of things my wife has crammed into every inch of closet space. In the small guest bedroom closet alone we have four boxes of gift wrapping materials, an assortment of hats (some of them straw), extra blankets and pillows, an oscillating ceramic heater, a battery-powered black and white TV, a hurricane kit, a first-aid kit, a sewing kit, board games, two pair of binoculars, a tripod, fake leaves made of silk, “silk” shirts made of polyester, duffle bags, tote bags, store bags, luggage, tax records, old record albums and six large plastic storage boxes of photos – three of them quite possibly not of people we know.

The upheaval of transporting all that stuff from the closets to the dumping ground formerly known as our family room was unsettling, but not nearly as unnerving as the installation of the carpet and wood. I’m not a flooring expert, but I sensed we were in trouble when the “wood guy” kept reading the box the planks came in and making puzzled grunting sounds. After a couple of hours of grunting, he snapped several lines of red chalk on the floor. I presumed this was to mark his territory, which seem plausible when, in a move reminiscent of tribal rituals I’ve seen on National Geographic specials, he danced in ever widening circles through the chalk before tracking its indelible stain to far off corners of the house.

Meanwhile, the carpet guys, inspired by the wood guy’s mystical approach to project planning, set about carrying out their own ingenious strategy of installing carpet in the living room first and then relentlessly trashing it on their 115 trips back and forth to do the bedrooms.

After installing approximately 12 planks during a six-hour shift, the wood guy decided to quit while he was ahead, and rode off on his bicycle (yes, his bicycle). The carpet guys, who had arrived three hours late, asked if we minded if they worked late into the evening. After eight hours of carpet-laying chaos, we minded.

Things didn’t go any better the next day when the crucial merging of the wood floor and the carpet was to be executed. According to Sherry’s vision, there would be a gently sweeping curve that would define the transition from the dining room wood to the living room carpet. When the moment of creative conception came, we were, to put it succinctly, “floored.” Instead of a soft, graceful curve, the meeting of the carpet and wood resembled the jagged outline of an eroded beach during low tide.

“I can’t stand this flooring, it’s disgusting,” Sherry said, surveying the carnage.

“Isn’t that what you said before we started this project?” I asked, trying to sort out the forensics of our misadventure.

“Yes, but that’s before we spent money trying to improve it, so now I’m even more disgusted.”

“Let’s never do this again,” I proposed, running my toes along the eroded coastline that was supposed to be the border of our new carpet and wood floors.

“Never do what again? Make a home improvement?”

“No, never use a company again that charges half the price of their competitors and sends guys as inept as me to do the work.”

“I think that’s a change in policy worth making,” Sherry acknowledged. “Now what do you want to do about this eroded beach of a floor border?”

“Well, since you asked, I was thinking we could buy some rubber sand crabs and jellyfish from one of those tourist shops out by the pier and make it into a whole ‘bad day at the beach’ theme.”

“Maybe add some beer bottles, cigarette butts, food wrappers,” Sherry brainstormed.

“Yes, excellent! Maybe some medical waste, too. And odd items of clothing – a glove, a girdle, a straw hat, one shoe.”

“Wait here,” Sherry nodded. “I’ve got some stuff I was going to cram back in the closet”

“Bring out those boxes of old photos,” I yelled. “Especially the ones of people we don’t know!”

 

Alan Williamson is an award-winning writer with 27 years in the field of true fiction (advertising). A practical man who knows that writing for a living is risky going, he has taken steps to pursue a second, more stable career as a leggy super model. Alan can be reached at [email protected].

November, 2009 – AW in Pictures

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November, 2009 – AW in Pictures

Just a few highlights of happenings Around Wellington. For many more photos, visit the link “Photo Galleries” on this site!

The Cat in the Hat (Gre) and his young daughter (Bryce) as a dalmation at My Gym's Halloween Bash
The Cat in the Hat (Greg) and his young daughter (Bryce) as a dalmation at My Gym's Halloween Bash

 

Esplanade (By Rollin McGrail), www.RollinMcGrail.com
Esplanade (By Rollin McGrail), www.RollinMcGrail.
Connecting at the International Women's Conference in Miami, Photo by Christine Rose
Connecting at the International Women's Conference in Miami, Photo by Christine Rose
Vinceremos Harvest Fest (Left: Founder Ruth Menor and Right: Gemma Steele), Photo by Frances Goodman
Vinceremos Harvest Fest (Left: Founder Ruth Menor and Right: Gemma Steele), Photo by Frances Goodman

November, 2009 – My Gym Bringing Smiles to Children

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November, 2009 – My Gym Bringing Smiles to Children

My Gym

Bringing Smiles to Children Every Day

 

See our videos of a My Gym class in action (below)

By Krista Martinelli

 

   If you have a child between six months old up to seven years old, you might already know just how special My Gym is! I have checked with several parents and it’s quite common for your child to ask, “When are we going to My Gym?” every day of the week. My two-year-old son tends to ask if it’s a “My Gym” day first thing in the morning. My Gym is a place to play, build skills, do gymnastics, learn about sports, make friends and have lots of fun.

“I think kids love it!” says Director Tom Copeland. “Almost every

Mr. Anthony of My Gym leads "Circle Time"
Mr. Anthony of My Gym leads “Circle Time”

 parent, after the first couple of classes, says ‘All my child does is talk about My Gym, morning and night.’” Young children have a deep affection for the things they like to do and “when they fall in love with something, they just show it openly,” says Copeland.

Co-owner Anthony Prieto takes pride in “Seeing how happy and excited the kids are when they arrive for class and seeing the progress with their social and physical development.”

If you haven’t heard of My Gym, it’s a franchise in its 26th year which began in California. There are approximately 175 My Gyms worldwide and it continues to grow. They are known for their terrific birthday parties and age-appropriate development classes.

With babies, they focus on an early learning movement program, including visual skills, grabbing, fine motor skills and gross motor skills. As the children get older, they incorporate more challenging gymnastics skills, tumbling, sports, sharing skills and listening skills. At age two, they include a short “separation time” during which the kids are encouraged to play with toys, while parents fade back without interacting. At age three, independent classes begin, so parents drop off their children for class instead of participating. From ages four to seven, more sports and gymnastics are emphasized, including team work, sports rules and more technical sports skills. All of the activities are considered non-competitive, which can be a big plus for children who need a break from the competitive nature of so many of today’s activities.

“We aim to build confidence within the kids,” says Director Tom

Mr. Tom assists with swinging from the bar
Mr. Tom assists with swinging from the bar

 Copeland. “Kids who might be shy are prompted to participate. We like to encourage them.”

The core philosophy that guides My Gym’s programming has been developed through “intensive physiological, psychological and sociological research, along with decades of hands-on experience by hundreds of My Gym child and fitness experts.” So in addition to all of the fun your child is having, you can rest assured that positive, age-appropriate learning is going on.

The Royal Palm Beach My Gym, located in the BJ’s Shopping Center on 441, has been open for approximately ten years. Owners Anthony and Chris Prieto aim to carry on the well-designed My Gym activities, but they also add something more. They give back to the community frequently.

“It’s very grass roots,” says Copeland. “We’re about teaching children and having fun, but at the same time we’re about helping

My Gym is hosting a special Halloween Bash on Friday, Oct. 30th
My Gym is hosting a special Halloween Bash on Friday, Oct. 30th

 those children who can’t afford things.” In the past year, they held a cash and toy donation drive to benefit The Children’s Coalition. On October 30th, they are holding a Halloween bash with a costume drive, donating the costumes to the United Way (who delivered the costumes to children in need).

From the corporate level down to the individual locations, My Gym is focused in reaching out to those children who are economically disadvantaged, physically challenged or developmentally delayed through their non-profit, separate organization called The Challenged America Foundation. To donate or get involved, visit their website or call them at (818) 907-6966 x117.

 

Affordable Prices

Another great thing about My Gym is what you get for your monthly tuition, especially in this challenging economy. All of the classes (except for the special sports classes) are just $68 per month and are one-hour sessions. In addition to the classes, you can take your child to the free play sessions throughout the week. This is a great chance for parents to give their children a little exercise and free play time, using the slides, trampoline, swings, ball pit and other fun indoor things you will find at My Gym. Meanwhile, the 90-minute sports classes for children ages four to seven are just $75 per month. There is a one-time membership fee – see the coupon on our website under AW Coupons!

 

Many Sports to Learn About

Thanks to a well-designed sports program by Anthony Prieto and Tom Copeland, older My Gym kids get to learn the basics of football, baseball, soccer, hockey, badminton, tennis, volleyball, boxing, a fitness boot camp, obstacle courses and kickball. Children between 4 to 7 years of age can sign up for the sports class and have fun while improving their skills in a non-competitive atmosphere.

 

(In the above video, Mr. Anthony encourages the children to give him a high-five and then gets knocked over by each one of them. This never fails to make the young students laugh!)

About the My Gym Staff

At My Gym, the training for new staff members is not just about how to teach a class. It’s about having a great attitude and, as a pre-requisite, a love of children. “Our staff members know every child’s name and are always on time,” says Tom Copeland. It’s about having fun and truly nurturing the young children who might be experiencing the class as their very first exposure to any form of classroom learning. At My Gym, they always send new potential staff members “out on the floor” to see how they perform before making the decision to hire. It’s all about good rapport with the children and at My Gym Royal Palm Beach, all of the staff members excel at this.

 

To Sign Up

In order to enroll for My Gym classes, just stop by their Royal Palm Beach location, call them at (561) 798-5656 or visit their website – to view the current schedule. Don’t forget to take a look at the free play times too, extra fun at no additional cost.

 

Fantastic Birthday Parties

You can celebrate your child’s special day with captivating, age-appropriate games and fun activities, rides, songs, puppets and more. Your family and guests will enjoy exclusive use of the entire My Gym facility. Just pick a date, and My Gym helps with all of the details. The goal of a child’s birthday party is for everyone to have a blast – children and parents too!  Note to our Around Wellington Parents: In one of our upcoming contests, you will have the chance to win a My Gym birthday party for your child! Check back at www.aroundwellington.com for this special contest!My Gym Royal Palm Beach

 

My Gym

518 N. State Rd. 7

(BJ’s Shopping Plaza)
Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411
(561) 798-5656

www.My-Gym.com


November, 2009 – Wine Tasting Event

editor
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Jose de la Torre
Vice President
Branch Sales and Service Manager

and

Julia Brauner
Vice president
North Regional Sales Manager

Cordially invite you to attend a
Corporate Networking and
Wine Tasting Event

at our
Lantana-West Banking Center
6272 Lantana Road
Lake Worth, Florida 33463

Wednesday, November 4, 2009
5:30 – 7:30pm

Meet with area business owners and
professionals from the Greater Lantana
and Hispanic Chambers of Commerce

R.S.V.P.
561-515-1355 by October 28, 2009

November, 2009 – Wellington Art Society’s November meeting to feature Nancy Tilles

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Wellington Art Society to meet Nov. 10
Award-winning artist Nancy Tilles to present painting demo

Wellington, FL, November 1, 2009 – The November meeting of the Wellington Art Society will feature award-winning portrait artist Nancy Tilles, who will demonstrate the techniques she uses in her unique work. Her paintings are based in realism with a strong attention to detail, complemented by a vibrant palette of many rich colors. In addition to commissioned portraits, Tilles also paints a variety of subjects from animals and flowers to underwater scenes.

Tilles, a W.A.S. member and University of Miami graduate, teaches art at her home/studio in Palm Beach Gardens. Her work has been in numerous publications and exhibited at Palm Beach International Airport and in shows such as Artigras and Sunfest, among others.

The W.A.S. meeting will be held Tuesday, November, 10, 2009, at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center, 151 Civic Center Way, near the southwest corner of Okeechobee Blvd. and Royal Palm Beach Blvd. Light refreshments will be served at 6:30pm, followed by a brief business meeting at 7, with the demo starting about 7:15. While the meeting is free and open to the public, there is a $5.00 fee for the demo for non-Society members. Registration for W.A.S. membership will also be available at the meeting.

Founded in 1981, The Wellington Art Society is open to artists of all mediums and patrons of the arts, providing both local and regional artists the platform to share their work, learn more about their craft and serve the community through their art.

A 501(c)(3) charitable organization, its mission is to educate and encourage originality and productivity among its members and area youth through programs designed to further the advancement of cultural endeavors in the western communities.

October, 2009 – Wellington High School Girl’s Golf Team Wins!

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For Immediate Release
Contact: Laurie Bawinkel (head coach)
[email protected]

Wellington High School Girls’ Golf Team Finishes First in District
Tournament, Moves on to Regional Championship October 25 in Viera

Wellington, FL – The Wanderers Club in Wellington played host to the 2009
District 18 girl’s golf championship on Monday, October 19 with players from
11 schools competing for the chance to advance to the regional finals.

The Wellington team finished first, with a cumulative score of 386.   The
runner-up trophy went to 2nd place Jupiter, with a total score of 409. Royal
Palm Beach finishing 3rd with a score of 427. All three teams – along with
individual players from Palm Beach Gardens, Santaluces and John I. Leonard –
will compete in the regional championship tournament in Viera on October 25.
Win there, and it’s on to the state championship.   The low score of the
day was posted by Santaluces golfer Samantha Smolen, who shot a 71.

“We can’t thank the Wanderers Club enough for their hospitality,” said
Wellington coach Laurie Bawinkel.  “The course was in great condition, and
the staff made everyone feel right at home.”

In the photo: (L-R)  Laurie Bawinkel (head coach), Rose DiMatteo (Senior)
Melissa Welch (Junior), Kaci Bennett (Sophomore), Mary Dixon (Freshman),
Allison Parssi (Sophomore).

Bill Underwood
Liberty Media Group, Inc.
13833 Wellington Trace, Suite 423
Wellington, FL 33414
(561) 267-2632
http://www.LibertyMediaGroup.net

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