Thursday, September 30, 2010

Genesis Health Clubs Celebrates 25 years

“The fitness industry is constantly changing, Rodney Steven II says, but health clubs are here to stay. Count his Genesis Health Clubs among them. From a single location, the business — now in its 25th year — has grown to seven four clubs in Wichita and one each in Hutchinson, Salina and Emporia. Nationally, the number of health clubs has nearly tripled from the mid-1980s, from about 10,000 to 29,750 at the beginning of 2009, the most recent year for which numbers are available from the International Health , Racquet & Sportsclub Association. Industry revenue has grown from $6.5 billion in 1993 to $19.5 billion in 2009, according to the association. Genesis will keep growing as long as the staff is willing to provide the personalized, passionate service that has made it a success, he said. That's been his emphasis from the start. The International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association said in a statement that Genesis, one of its members, has been successful because of "its ability to meet member needs and continually offer diverse programming that keeps them engaged and interested in exercise’ and has stayed ahead of the curve by adding corporate wellness and rehabilitation services.”

Michelle Obama Promotes Health In Disney Campaign

“World famous for her White House vegetable garden, first lady Michelle Obama is sharing her expertise in a Walt Disney Co. ad campaign designed to show parents and children that eating well and exercising can be fun, too. ‘Eating better and getting more active is easier than you think,’ Mrs. Obama says in the first of eight public service spots she's starring in as part of Disney's ‘Magic of Healthy Living’ campaign. The entertainment company planned to announce the campaign Thursday. The first lady appears with various Disney stars, including Nick Jonas of the Jonas Brothers and Brenda Song, of the Disney Channel's ‘The Suite Life on Deck. In another of the ads, she helps other Disney stars who want to plant a garden. ‘You don't need a big backyard or even pots to start your own garden,’ Mrs. Obama says. ‘All you need is sunlight, water and a little imagination. So let's get moving and get planting because a great way to get fresh, healthy produce is to grow it yourself.’”

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5j8a2KHdviOYR_b7BsLVq7u1O-61gD9II0NKO1?docId=D9II0NKO1

Elderly Exercising Can Reduce Falls And Injury

“Elderly women are at high risk of hip fractures and costly hip replacement procedures. However, a new September 27th JAMA journal article appearing in Archives of Internal Medicine, states that improvements in gait strength and balance, achieved in the comfort of home can aid in prevention for these high risk patients.”

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/202999.php

Monday, September 27, 2010

Gym Culture Not Working Out For The French

“The French may love to look good but few are willing to work up a sweat over it. Despite increasing awareness of the benefits of healthy eating and physical exercise, going to the gym in France is still a niche activity that has yet to capture the mainstream. France's generous healthcare system, its cultural preference for outdoor sports and its lack of affordable good-quality clubs are seen as reasons behind the country's low rate of gym goers, even relative to laid-back neighbors Spain or Italy. ‘It appears to me that more people are sitting in cafes smoking cigarettes and drinking coffee than working out ... the French don't see fitness as a lifestyle,’ says American-born fitness consultant Fred Hoffman, who has lived in Paris for 21 years. Only 5.4 percent of French people belonged to a health club in 2008, according to the International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association, compared with 9.5 percent for Italy, 11.9 percent for the United Kingdom and 16.6 percent for Spain.”

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE68Q20520100927?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+reuters%2Flifestyle+%28News+%2F+US+%2F+Lifestyle%29

New CV Kit for Technogym

“Technogym has introduced the Crossover, a new cardio machine enabling a combination of lateral and elliptical movement. The Crossover provides upper and lower body training, with complete muscle activation allowing optimal calorie burning and ensuring maximum glutes activation. It offers a fixed-stride cyclical exercise and completes the Technogym Excite+ line with the ‘Lateral Today Body’ concept. According to the manufacturer, the machine is suitable for varying fitness levels and all types of workout. Meanwhile, Technogym was recently appointed as the official supplier for the first Youth Olympic Games, which took place in Singapore from August 14-26. The company will also be the official supplier for the upcoming Olympic Games, which will be held in London in 2012.”

http://www.hoteliermiddleeast.com/9504-new-cv-kit-for-technogym

First Santa Cruz Business Goes Solar Thermal with New California Solar Initiative Rebate

"Toadal Fitness is the first Santa Cruz business to take advantage of the new California Solar Initiative (CSI) Thermal Program for commercial businesses. Toadal Fitness will be among the first commercial applications of the CSI thermal program in California, and the first commercial application in the City of Santa Cruz, according to Paul Burrowes, COO of Free Hot Water. To mark the occasion, a ribbon cutting ceremony took place on the roof at Toadal Fitness’ downtown location with Santa Cruz’s Vice-Mayor, Ryan Coonerty, who was on hand to recognize Toadal Fitness’ commitment to the environment and sustainable business practices. ‘I think it is great that local businesses, like Toadal Fitness, are taking the lead in responding to climate change. I expect that this is only the first of...

http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/partner/free-hot-water/news/article/2010/09/first-santa-cruz-business-goes-solar-thermal-with-new-california-solar-initiative-rebate

For Gym, Fitness For Entire Family

“William White, of Anytime Fitness, said childhood obesity isn't a children's epidemic. ‘It's a family epidemic,’ he said. One out of three children are overweight or obese, according to national health campaigns. And if a parent is overweight, the child is 50 percent more likely to be overweight. That's why it's time for parents to start taking charge, White said. ‘Parents as well as children should do healthy things together,’ he said. Anytime Fitness will be participating in a promotion to help parents get fit and guide their children. The program, which has been running through this month, gives the person a 30-day membership for free from the date they come in for their first visit. It also provides 30 minutes with a trainer...

http://www.ocala.com/article/20100926/ARTICLES/100929732/1001/NEWS01?Title=For-gym-fitness-for-entire-family&tc=ar

Twists And Turns That Make A Difference

“It has the latest fitness equipment, from a Cybex training circuit to stationary Expresso Cycles with video screens that let you bike virtually through a bucolic countryside. It holds classes in yoga, Pilates, boot camp and the hottest exercise trend, Zumba. And it offers personal training, massage therapy and a variety of health screenings. Yet it's not a glitzy mirror-wall health club aimed at fitness-minded singles. In fact, its business has nothing to do with fitness. It's Cisco, worldwide provider of networking systems for business. And Cisco, with its state-of-the-art workout center, is hardly alone among its contemporaries in...

http://www.newsobserver.com/2010/09/26/701199/twists-and-turns-that-make-a-difference.html

U.S. Children Will Exercise From Coast To Coast

“US children will exercise for 10 continuous hours on October 7, 2010 to promote healthy lifestyle and combat childhood obesity. In a unique attempt toward the fight against childhood obesity, children in the United States are going to exercise for ten continuous hours on Thursday, October 7, 2010 in the second annual Exercise US, or Exercise United States day. As stated in US News & World Report referring to the Exercise US program - - ‘In a unique attempt to fight childhood obesity and cuts being made to school physical education programs, elementary, middle, and high schools from New York...

http://pr-usa.net/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=494991&Itemid=31

Friday, September 24, 2010

Balance and the Elderly [Joe Moore Letter to the Editor]

“To the Editor: Re “Staying on Balance, With the Help of Exercises” (Retirement section, Sept. 16): Not only does loss of balance make us susceptible to life-threatening falls, but it also threatens our independence. Loss of balance and mobility is the main reason many adults go into assisted living facilities. And once people lose their independence, declines in health and fitness levels tend to become more rapid. As we’ve become an increasingly mechanized, sedentary society, people have lost their full range of body movements. But many health clubs offer programs that are intended to help people reawaken the sensory responses that keep them on their feet. And basic balance work can be incorporated into most resistance training and cardio routines. Balance is just one example of how exercise plays a critical role in healthy aging. Be sure to ask for instructors certified to teach balance, and always ask why an exercise is being done.”

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/24/opinion/lweb24balance.html?_r=1&partner=MOREOVERFEATURES&ei=5040

Fitness First and Marks & Spencer Help East of England 'Get Back Into Fitness'

“As part of its Plan A strategy to help its customers live a healthy lifestyle, Marks & Spencer has teamed up with Fitness First and Sport England to shape up the East of England and offer staff and customers the opportunity to Get back into Fitness. The Get back into Fitness campaign is taking place across the eastern counties of the UK and sees 14 of Fitness First's health clubs offer an exclusive package to M&S staff and customers within the region. A special eight week gym membership is on offer which includes three personal training sessions all for the just GBP 59.95 giving staff and customers a really good reason to Get back into Fitness. As an added incentive Marks & Spencer is offering money off vouchers for use in store for those who make a certain number of visits. As the government cuts spending on it's successful Change4Life Campaign, it is up to large companies like Marks & Spencer to support the health and fitness industry by spreading the healthy lifestyle message. The scheme involves many sport and activity providers who are opening up their doors to people who may not have been exercising for some time and are nervous about getting back into it again.”

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/fitness-first-and-marks-spencer-help-east-of-england-get-back-into-fitness-2010-09-24?reflink=MW_news_stmp

USA and Mexico Are The Fattest Countries In The World

“Thirty percent of Mexican adults are obese as are 28% of Americans, the two fattest nations in the world, according to a book just published by the OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development). OECD obesity rates have risen from well below 10% before 1980 to at least double that amount in most countries, and triple in others. Obesity has climbed up to the top of the public health policy agenda globally, says the OECD. In nearly half of all OECD countries over half the population is overweight or obese.”

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/202313.php

Monday, September 20, 2010

Health Clubs Amp Up Their Perks To Win Members

“State-of-the-art equipment. Knowledgeable trainers. Convenient class schedules. Ostensibly, it's the essentials we seek in choosing a gym. But let's face it: It's the nonessentials, the amenities, that can make all the difference to our motivation levels. So we cased area health clubs in search of the coolest perks. (Although we've singled out a fair number, keep in mind that several of the clubs — especially the posh Denver Athletic Club, Colorado Athletic Club-Tabor Center, Greenwood Athletic and Tennis Club, and Pura Vida — make showings in just about every category.)…”

http://www.denverpost.com/fitness/ci_16118798#ixzz105EonOmi

Historic Glasgow Health Club To Hold Open Day For First Time

“The Arlington Baths, Britain's oldest members' swimming complex, opens its doors at the weekend to the public for the first time in its 140-year history. Established in 1870, this weekend’s event is just one of a series of projects which will celebrate this landmark. The original membership of the club was rooted in the affluent mercantile class who built the neighbouring park and Woodlands district in the mid-19th century.

http://news.stv.tv/scotland/west-central/198060-historic-glasgow-health-club-to-hold-open-day-for-first-time/

Fitness Obstacle Course Competition To Take Place At Local Health Club

“Naples-based health club Florida Fitness Coaches is holding the final timed competition of its fitness obstacle course challenge on Saturday, September 25. The competition begins at 9:00am at the gym, located on Tamiami Trail in north Naples. The challenge started on August 16, when all of the participants were given the details of the obstacle course. For the past six weeks, they have been practicing the events, which include push ups, pull ups, mountain climbers, medicine ball throws, a rope climb, running, and much more! Portion of proceeds to benefit Naples charity ‘Bikes for Tykes.’ Founded in Naples in 1987, Bikes for Tykes is dedicated to providing a pre-loved bicycle to every deserving child in America...

http://www.naplesnews.com/news/2010/sep/17/fitness-obstacle-course-competition-to-take-place-/

Friday, September 17, 2010

Big Up Your Health Club Workout with MTV and Virgin Active

“Virgin Active Health Clubs (http://www.virginactive.co.uk) have teamed up with MTV UK & Ireland, combining modern music and dance with health club fitness to bring the UK the ultimate urban exercise class. MTV Urban Workout is based on the hit US show, Randy Jackson presents America’s Best Dance Crew and is a pulsating mix of break dancing, hip-hop and free running. Taking place at 71 Virgin Active health clubs nationwide, MTV Urban Workout challenges the entire body with emphasis on the kind of core fitness, cardio exercise and upper body work normally associated with a hardcore gym workout. The fitness centre class is made up of four elements starting with a full stretching warm up, followed by the main section of the class where health club members will learn and practice a number of hip-hop, free running and floor-based break dancing moves. The third part of the workout sees the health club class separated into two ‘crews’ for a dance-off before a thorough cool down.”

http://www.prweb.com/releases/healthclub/healthclubclasses/prweb4527684.htm

Major Health Initiative Announced To Help Fight Obesity

“Governor Phil Bredesen along with state health officials announced a major new health initiative aimed at reducing obesity in Tennessee. ‘Eat Well, Play More Tennessee" urges people to eat better and exercise a bit more. ‘Eat Well, Play More Tennessee’ is a five-year plan developed by the Tennessee Obesity Taskforce and provides a comprehensive roadmap to reduce obesity and chronic disease in Tennessee by 2015. Bredesen along with Health Commissioner Susan Cooper officially kicked off the plan Thursday. ‘I think ultimately, kids in particular, they want to be thin, they want to exercise, kids like to move around. And if we can provide the opportunities to do that and help them with some of these choices they make, I think you begin to change that culture...

http://www.newschannel5.com/Global/story.asp?S=13169801

Staying on Balance, With the Help of Exercises

“Balance is a critical issue to older people. And more and more, at one-on-one training facilities like Mr. Morea’s or at larger health clubs, whether in yoga and Pilates studios or adult-education exercise classes for older adults, balance training is becoming a priority. With good reason. Unintentional falls among those 65 and older are responsible for more than 18,000 deaths and nearly 450,000 hospitalizations annually in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta. Most of these falls are caused by a decline in that complex and multidimensional human skill known as balance. Yet, unlike many effects of aging...

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/16/business/retirementspecial/16BALANCE.html?_r=1&emc=tnt&tntemail1=y

Cooking Is 'Common Form Of Moderate Exercise' In U.S.

“Only a tiny fraction of Americans heed the advice to take part in moderate or vigorous activity to keep weight down and stay healthy, and when they do, they're likely to do something a little self-defeating: prepare food. Those are two key findings of a study published Wednesday in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine. For the study, researchers from Pennington Biomedical Research Center in Louisiana analyzed data collected between 2003 and 2008 from nearly 80,000 respondents for a nationwide survey in which Americans were asked what activities they did in the preceding 24 hours. Only 5.07 percent of Americans reported doing any vigorous-intensity activity like running, while at the other end of the scale, more than 95 percent said they had engaged in the highly sedentary...

http://www.montrealgazette.com/health/Cooking+common+form+moderate+exercise/3536214/story.html

Thursday, September 16, 2010

Polar Introduces New Physical Education Technology, Motivating Students to Lead Healthier, More Active Lifestyles

“Polar (www.polarusa.com), the leader in heart rate monitoring and fitness assessment technologies, today introduced the Polar Active activity monitor – an easy-to-use training computer that allows students to measure and record their physical activity level – along with PolarGoFit.com, an online service for teachers and students to monitor and track student activity. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) children should participate in at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity each day. Polar Active provides a continuous 24/7 measurement of daily activities, including calories burned, active steps and time spent in each activity zone – ranging from easy to vigorous. With the built-in activity bar feature, students have an easy-to-read visual...

http://healthcare.tmcnet.com/topics/healthcare/articles/102109-polar-introduces-new-physical-activity-monitor-students.htm

ACAC Fitness & Wellness Center to Open New Health Club Near Short Pump

“ACAC Fitness & Wellness Center is pleased to announce plans for a new health club in West Broad Village in Richmond. Located a quarter mile from Short Pump Town Center, the new 57,000 square-foot club will span three stories. In addition to state-of-the-art fitness amenities and group class studios, the facility will include an indoor aquatics center, a rooftop pool, and squash and racquetball courts. ‘We are very excited about the opportunity to expand our presence in the Richmond market,’ says Phil Wendel, ACAC club owner. Recently recognized as one...

http://www.pr.com/press-release/262372

The General Mills Foundation Joins the President's Council on Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition to Announce the One Million PALA Challenge

“The General Mills Foundation, a leader in fostering youth nutrition and fitness, today launched the One Million PALA Challenge in partnership with the President's Council on Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition (PCFSN) President's Challenge program, Box Tops for Education(R) and the Amateur Athletic Union. Through the initiative, the General Mills Foundation will fund up to one million PALA for students across the United States. The program encourages children to lead healthy, active lifestyles.”

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/the-general-mills-foundation-joins-the-presidents-council-on-fitness-sports-and-nutrition-to-announce-the-one-million-pala-challenge-2010-09-15?reflink=MW_news_stmp

National Coalition for Promoting Physical Activity Selects Carton Donofrio Partners As Its Marketing Partner

“The National Coalition for Promoting Physical Activity (NCPPA), the leading force in the U.S. promoting physical activity and fitness initiatives for all ages, has retained Carton Donofrio Partners, a full-service marketing communications firm, to help get Americans more physically active through several cause-marketing programs. The agency will develop the messaging and brand identity for implementation of the nation's first U.S. Physical Activity Plan, which aims to create a national culture that supports physically active lifestyles. ‘We selected Carton Donofrio Partners because of the firm's proven ability to communicate cause-related stories effectively and to generate keen insights and ideas on how to change our culture,’ said Barry Ford, board president of NCPPA. ‘We're excited to partner with them on this very important assignment which will get Americans moving and ultimately prevent disease and disability and enhance the overall quality of life for all.’”

http://baltimore.citybizlist.com/yourcitybiznews/detail.aspx?id=93657

Technogym To Provide Health Check-Ups And Fitness Assessments For UAE Residents

“UAE residents will be able to have their health examined and receive personalized fitness assessment in Dubai on Saturday, 25th September and Sunday, 26th September. The health check-ups offered by The City Hospital, Welcare Clinic Mirdif and Welcare Clinic Ibn Battuta include random cholesterol, blood pressure and body mass index (BMI) tests. Technogym expert trainers will offer free one on one personalized fitness assessments along with exercise tips to suit one's health. They will explain and demonstrate to visitors the importance of looking at your heart rate function when exercising and benefits to your overall health. This will be done using equipment provided by Technogym and explained verbally. The activities on the days are in acknowledgement of World Heart Day, an initiative of the World Heart Federation and the World Health Organisation. The annual event is marked in more than a hundred countries.”

http://www.ameinfo.com/242251.html

One In 20 Of Us Will Engage In A Sweaty Workout Today

“Here's a statistic in support of the U.S. obesity epidemic: Only 5% of Americans exercise vigorously on any given day. That's the conclusion of a study by researchers at the Pennington Biomedical Research Center in Baton Rouge, La. They analyzed data from about 80,000 Americans participating in the American Time Use Survey and found that while almost 80% engaged in light activities, such as driving a car or getting dressed, most did not engage in moderate or vigorous activity on any given day. Just more than 10% reported lawn, garden or houseplant care and only 2.2%...

http://www.latimes.com/health/boostershots/la-heb-vigorous-exercise-20100915,0,7308023.story?track=rss

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Germ-Proof Your Workout

“You already know the gym can be a germ-fest. It's full of people--some cleaner than others--sweating all over things, touching their hands to their faces, wiping their foreheads, showering and walking around in various states of undress. In fact, the National Athletic Trainers' Association released a report last month detailing the dangers that gym settings pose to athletes, particularly from skin infections. The same report noted that studies have shown the percentage of healthy adults who are carriers for a nasty bacterium called MRSA shot up from 0.8 percent in 2001 to 7.3 percent in 2004. Illinois Department of Public Health statistics show that about 30 percent of Chicago's residents report exercising at least three times a week. And the International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association reports that about 15 percent of Chicagoans have a gym membership, which figures to be about 439,000 people. As fall settles in and temps drop, some will move their workouts from outside into those gyms, where icky stuff can linger. Gym germ hot spots include machine handles, swimming pools, showers, saunas--anything wet or moist--and locker rooms. Dr. Russell Robertson, chairman of family and community medicine at Northwestern University, knows all too well that perspiring humans are like germ superhighways. ‘The perspiration, then, will sort of disseminate whatever [germ] it is that you have picked up,’ he said. While exercising in the gym at his own workplace, Robertson meticulously wipes down the machines on which he works out, both before and after his session, even if he thinks the previous person already cleaned it. ‘I wouldn't make any assumptions.’ The alternative--that you might not exercise at all, just for fear of contracting a rare or relatively harmless illness--can be counterproductive. ‘We need more people to be in [the gym],’ Robertson says. ‘If you choose to not work out because you're afraid of acquiring some infection, you're going to die a lot sooner.’”

http://www.chicagonow.com/blogs/redeye/2010/09/germ-proof-your-workout.html

Fitness Instructor Offering Free Aerobics Classes to BVI Community

“Inspired by the efforts of persons involved in the Caribbean Wellness Day program and health and fitness month, instructor and personal trainer Mitch Gordon of the Body Images Health Club has decided to take the extra step to help rid the BVI community from many non communicable diseases by offering free aerobics classes every Saturday on the AO Shirley grounds, beginning Saturday September 18 at 5:30 am. Persons are asked to bring along a towel and drinking water for this programMr. Gordon is hoping to make this exercise program the largest free exercise program throughout the Territory. Everyone is welcomed.”

http://www2.bviplatinum.com/news.php?module=news&page=Article&articleID=1284492974

HHS Awards $31 Million More for Prevention and Wellness Projects

“The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) today announced $31 million for awards to ten communities in eight states and one award to a state health department to support public health efforts to reduce obesity and smoking, increase physical activity and improve nutrition. ‘With Communities Putting Prevention to Work, we’re creating evidence-based models that we can replicate on a large scale to permanently reduce the chronic diseases plaguing so many of our communities.’ The awards funded by the Prevention and Public Health Fund included in the Affordable Care Act are part of the HHS Communities Putting Prevention to Work (CPPW) program, a comprehensive prevention and wellness initiative administered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. ‘As I’ve seen throughout the year in my work with Let’s Move!, prevention works when it comes to improving the health of our families,’ said First Lady Michelle Obama. ‘These critical investments will help more communities across America tackle serious health challenges like childhood obesity...

http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20100914007017/en

IHRSA Chairperson Calls Upon Health Club Leadership

“On my flight to San Francisco today I cracked open the September 2010 Club Business International, where I ran across Art Curtis' article ‘A Culture of Healthy Behaviors’ on page 85. Art is the Chairperson of IHRSA, which represents the global health club industry. Here is an excerpt: ‘Like many of you, I was excited by the possibility that our national leaders might be able to work together to produce genuine healthcare reform. And, like most of you, I was extremelt disappointed when the resulting legislation dealt more with reforming health insurance than improving the nation's well-being.’ Of course Art's right and I've written extensively on the topic he raises (see for example Private Insurance, Health Care & Corruption, and Why Wel...

http://www.bryankorourke.com/journal/2010/9/14/ihrsa-chairperson-calls-upon-health-club-leadership.html

Smaller Fitness Clubs Play To A Single Strength, From Rowing To Yoga [Video]

“Tired of feeling like a ‘hamster’ at a full-service health club, André Foisy dropped his membership and joined a gym with one main attraction: rowing classes six days per week. At Rowfit, a new West Town indoor rowing studio, he pays $99 a month for unlimited classes, up from just over $40 a month for his discounted membership at the Hilton Chicago gym. His new workouts are ‘incredibly intense,’ says Mr. Foisy, 31, an adjunct professor and administrator at Columbia College, ‘but there's also a great community aspect where everyone knows one another and roots for everyone else.’ It's a welcome change from traditional gyms, where, he says, people either ‘exist in their own isolated bubble’ or compete too much. Rowfit, which also offers classes in yoga and boxing, is one of a crop of boutique gyms to spring up around the city...

http://www.chicagobusiness.com/article/20100911/ISSUE01/309119916

Friday, September 10, 2010

How Does Obesity in Adults Affect Spending on Health Care?

“Over the past two decades, the adult population in the United States has, on average, become much heavier. From 1987 to 2007, the fraction of adults who were overweight or obese increased from 44 percent to 63 percent; almost two-thirds of the adult population now falls into one of those categories. The share of obese adults rose particularly rapidly, more than doubling from 13 percent to 28 percent. That sharp increase in the fraction of adults who are overweight or obese poses an important public health challenge. Those adults are more likely to develop serious illnesses, including coronary heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension. As a result, that trend also affects spending on health care.”

http://cbo.gov/doc.cfm?index=11810

Seniors Stay Active To Keep Muscles Healthy, Prevent Disease

“Instead of easing quietly into his golden years, Barritt goes four times a week to a gym owned by Pender Adult Services where he works on weight machines for his arm and back muscles. Health club memberships among those 55 and older have become one of the fastest-growing segments of gym members, jumping more than 400 percent between 1990 and 2007 when there were 9.9 million members in that age segment, according to the trade group the International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association...

http://www.starnewsonline.com/article/20100909/ARTICLES/100909654/

How to Become a Personal Trainer

“Although personal training has been associated in the past with young bodybuilder types, a growing number of Americans are entering personal training as a second career, industry officials say. About half (52 percent) of NASM's certified trainers are now over 35, according to the organization. More than half — 57 percent — are women. And 75 percent are doing it part time, meaning 24 hours a week or less, NASM says, which was great for Leber, who was already collecting a pension but was bored to tears. The average hourly pay for a personal trainer is $43.78, according to a 2008 survey by the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association...

http://www.tonic.com/article/how-to-become-a-personal-trainer-secondact/

Alarms On Youth Obesity In Mass.

“More than one-third of Massachusetts students evaluated during the 2008-2009 school year were overweight or obese, according to a report released yesterday that revealed stark differences in how the obesity epidemic has touched cities and towns. The study, which reflects weight and height measurements for about 110,000 students, for the first time provides data on separate school districts and underscores the role of poverty and affluence in determining weight. Lawrence, one of the...

http://www.boston.com/news/health/articles/2010/09/09/alarms_on_mass_youth_obesity/?p1=Local_Links

Give Me 10 ... Thousand: Parents Shell Out Small Fortunes for Kids' Personal Trainers

“Youth sports training has grown into a $4.5 billion industry, according to IBISWorld, an industry and market research group. And, for trainers who are increasingly marketing themselves to kids and their folks, it can be a bonanza, with some charging $300 an hour for their services. The number of kids who use health clubs has more than doubled since 1990, and more than half of fitness professionals now offer one-on-one personal training for kids 18 and younger, according to the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association. But, as more kids get additional training, their teammates who don't pay for outside help can see their performance lag and end up riding the bench. ‘If they want to be competitive, they don't have...

http://www.parentdish.com/2010/09/08/give-me-10-thousand-parents-shell-out-small-fortunes-for-ki/

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Presidential Proclamation--National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month

One of the greatest responsibilities we have as a Nation is to safeguard the health and well-being of our children. We now face a national childhood obesity crisis, with nearly one in every three of America's children being overweight or obese. There are concrete steps we can take right away as concerned parents, caregivers, educators, loved ones, and a Nation to ensure that our children are able to live full and active lives...

http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2010/09/01/presidential-proclamation-national-childhood-obesity-awareness-month

Minnesota Firm Taking Anytime Fitness To Poland

“A Minnesota investment firm is taking Anytime Fitness Inc. to Poland, the Hasting-based fitness club chain said Wednesday. Wayzata Poland Z.O.O, a subsidiary of St. Louis Park-based Wayzata Capital Management Inc., plans to open three Anytime Fitness clubs in Warsaw in the next two years, according to a news release. The first is scheduled to open in Warsaw in November. As many as 10 clubs are planned for the nation's capital before the firm expands to other Polish cities...

http://twincities.bizjournals.com/twincities/stories/2010/09/06/daily11.html

Cybex Named the Preferred Fitness Equipment Supplier to Troon Golf

“As part of this new relationship, Troon [which operates more than 200 high-end private, resort and daily fee golf properties across 26 countries] has recommended CYBEX to its facility managers, who will give full consideration to the Company's diverse range of fitness solutions, including the CYBEX Golf Fitness platform. ‘CYBEX really understands the needs of our properties, excels at delivering an exceptional value with its fitness program, and provides the service quality our members and guests associate with the Troon Golf experience,’ says John Easterbrook, Executive Vice President of Operations, Troon Golf. ‘Because they're extremely flexible and willing to work within the confines of what a club can dedicate to fitness, CYBEX truly...

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/cybex-named-the-preferred-fitness-equipment-supplier-to-troon-golf-2010-09-08?reflink=MW_news_stmp

Limber Up for All New Strictly Fit With Fitness First

“As Strictly Come Dancing waltzes back onto TV screens, everyone can try their hand at dance moves inspired by the hit BBC One television show with the newly refreshed Strictly Fit group exercise classes from Fitness First. The classes were initially launched last year and have proved so successful with members and non members that new classes are set to be introduced nationwide this Autumn...

http://www.sys-con.com/node/1523614

Hoole Hall Health Club's Fund Raising Ride

“STAFF and members from a Chester health club are gearing up to take part in a mammoth 300-mile charity cycle ride from London to Paris. The Club and Spa at Hoole Hall’s charity feat will start on September 22 in an effort to raise £5,000 for The Hospice of the Good Shepherd, in Backford, Chester. To get the ball rolling with their fundraising, staff members have been visiting local supermarkets with spinning bikes and have already raised £4,000 towards their total. Members and staff have joined forces to raise as much money as possible for the hospice, which provides highly specialised care for people living with incurable illnesses.”

http://www.chesterfirst.co.uk/news/92943/hoole-hall-health-club-s-fund-raising-ride.aspx

Long-Term Weight Loss May Be Harmful To Health

“Long-term weight loss may release into the blood industrial pollutants linked to illnesses like diabetes, hypertension and rheumatoid arthritis, researchers said on Tuesday. These compounds are normally stored in fatty tissues, but when fat breaks down during weight loss, they get into the blood stream, said lead researcher Duk-Hee Lee at the Kyungpook National University in Daegu in South Korea. ‘We are living under the strong dogma that weight loss is always beneficial, but weight gain is always harmful...but we think that increased (pollutant) levels (in the blood) due to weight loss can affect human health in a variety of ways,’ she wrote in an email to Reuters."

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20100907/hl_nm/us_weightloss_harm

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Cape Coral Tennis Club Receives Good News

“‘The club is going on,’ a relieved Bob Lynch told me on Friday. The club he was referring to is the Mid-Cape Racquet & Health Club, which recently went into foreclosure. ‘(Community South) bank is bringing in a management company,’ said Lynch, who opened the $4 million dollar facility in 2004 with his wife Suzanne. "The good news is the staff and everyone is staying. Based on conversations we've had, they're not going to change a thing. ‘It's a very unusual situation. A bank would usually shut it down but it's making money. It's a profitable club so they're...

http://www.news-press.com/article/20100907/COLUMNISTS13/9070331/1010/sports/Cape-Coral-tennis-club-receives-good-news

In Shape Plans 2nd Manteca Club

“In Shape has submitted plans for a proposed state-of-the-art fitness center as part of The Promenade Shops at Orchard Valley. Community Development Director Frederic Clark confirmed the plans are in the preliminary site review stage and that no target date has been for the issuance of a building permit. In Shape has been looking at expanding in the growing Manteca market for a number of years. About 10 years ago they were considering a site on West Yosemite Avenue west of Airport Way for a larger club similar to the one they have in Tracy complete with outdoor tennis courts and even a ball field.”

http://www.mantecabulletin.com/news/article/16844

An Exercise Class With an Element of Joy

“At least from my mat, yoga in this city feels like just another form of competition—in the guise of a love-in. But exercise can co-exist with an element of joy. And it's happening in the basement of an old luggage factory in Park Slope. At the Union Street Dance studio, choreographer Eva Dean has created exercise classes based on movement of her own design: Bounce Dance Technique. There are no po-go sticks or fancy shoes. It's all about using those giant workout balls that typically clog up apartments and make for a handy extra seat. But it's more than a workout method. The undulating, smooth movements are the basis...

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703713504575475850153645706.html?KEYWORDS=fitness

Making Soldiers Fit to Fight, Without the Situps

“Dawn breaks at this, the Army’s largest training post, with the reliable sound of fresh recruits marching to their morning exercise. But these days, something looks different. That familiar standby, the situp, is gone, or almost gone. Exercises that look like pilates or yoga routines are in. And the traditional bane of the new private, the long run, has been downgraded. This is the Army’s new physical-training program, which has been rolled out this year at its five basic training posts that handle 145,000...

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/31/us/31soldier.html?_r=1&ref=nutrition

Why Trainers Say, 'Slow Down'

“Roughly 10% of athletes preparing for an endurance event are training too hard, estimates Jack Raglin, director of graduate studies at the Indiana University's department of kinesiology. Research in the field has shown that injury rates rise as runners increase their weekly mileage. Besides injury, excessive training can contribute to or cause major depression, loss of sleep, anorexia and sometimes death. Statistically, the harder line to reach is the start line. Of the tens of thousands of Americans who pay as much as $180 to register for marathons, as many as 25% fail to make it to the race. Injury, illness and loss...

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704855104575470213241311890.html?KEYWORDS=fitness

Beijing Suits Up for Health Push [video]

Chinese authorities are reviving mass calisthenics as part of a new government health campaign, broadcasting daily routines over the radio. Video courtesy of AFP.

http://online.wsj.com/video/beijing-suits-up-for-health-push/CACDB49C-F71D-4079-8CE8-8E1A8F3C95C7.html?KEYWORDS=fitness

Thursday, September 2, 2010

Technogym Founder Alessandri May Buy Back Stake From Candover, Sole Says

“Technogym SpA founder Nerio Alessandri may buy back the 40 percent stake he sold to Candover Investments two years ago, daily Il Sole 24 Ore reported, without saying where it got the information. Alessandri may be able to buy the stake in the Italian equipment maker before it is sold to a third party according to a clause in the contract signed with Candover, Il Sole reported. Candover halted investments in January and plans to focus on the sale of its remaining assets and return cash to investors after talks to find a buyer for the fund manager broke down.”

http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2010-09-02/technogym-founder-alessandri-may-buy-back-stake-from-candover-sole-says.html

UNC Teams With Cybex To Help Fund Cancer Research

"The UNC Fitness Center has joined Cybex International and the Breast Cancer Research Foundation to raise money for the fight against breast cancer. Cybex, a leading manufacturer of exercise equipment, developed pink treadmills and arc trainers for gymnasiums across the country to spur physical activity and fund-raising. For every mile logged on a pink Cybex treadmill...

http://www.dailytarheel.com/index.php/article/2010/09/unc_teams_with_cybex_to_help_fund_cancer_research_

Town Sports International Offers Investors the Best Cash Flow in the Leisure Facilities Industry

“Town Sports International (NASDAQ:CLUB) has a price to free cash flow ratio of 7.2x based on a current price of $2.68 and a free cash flow per share of $0.37.”

http://www.mysmartrend.com/news-briefs/news-watch/town-sports-international-offers-investors-best-cash-flow-leisure-facilities-2

Does Stretching Before Running Prevent Injuries?

“The study, one of the largest of its kind, involved almost 1,400 runners, from age 13 to past 60, who were assigned randomly to two groups. The first group did not stretch before their runs, while otherwise maintaining their normal workout routine: the same mileage, warm-up (minus any stretching) and so on. The second group stretched, having received photographs and specific instructions for a series of simple, traditional poses, like leaning over and touching toes, that focused on the calf, hamstring and quadriceps muscles. The volunteers were told to hold each stretch for 20 seconds, a technique known as static stretching. The entire routine required three to five minutes and was to be completed immediately before a run. Phys Ed The...

http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/09/01/phys-ed-does-stretching-before-running-prevent-injuries/

Anytime Fitness and Exercise is Medicine™ Team Up for a Healthier America

What if the health care and fitness industries merged to ensure that exercise was the most widely prescribed drug in the world? A partnership between Anytime Fitness, the world’s largest co-ed fitness chain and the American College of Sport Medicine’s Exercise is Medicine ™ global initiative aims to do just that. During a time when the nation faces a serious health crisis, Anytime Fitness and Exercise is Medicine are teaming up in a joint promotion aimed at bridging the health gap that exists between the doctor’s office and the gym...

http://multivu.prnewswire.com/mnr/anytimefitness/45807/

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Bally Total Fitness Agrees To Refund Customers' Overpayments

“Nearly 1,000 Texans who paid money to Bally Total Fitness Corp. that they did not owe are now due a refund, according to a final judgment between Attorney General Greg Abbott and Bally. According to the settlement agreement, between summer 2009 and March 2010, Bally sent 11,000 "past due" bills to former customers when they didn't owe anything to the health club chain. The mailings threatened to harm the consumers' credit ratings if they did not pay, the settlement said. The 1,000 customers due refunds were the ones who responded to...

http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/bus/stories/DN-bally_01bus.ART.State.Edition1.26beb83.html

Physically Active Lifestyle May Reduce Genetic Predisposition To Obesity

"New research from the UK suggests that living an active lifestyle can reduce people's genetic predisposition to obesity by about 40 per cent, challenging a popular view that exercise doesn't help people lose weight if they are genetically predisposed to obesity. The study was the work of senior author Dr Ruth Loos, group leader in Genetics in the MRC Epidemiology Unit at the Institute of Metabolic Science, based at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge, and colleagues, and was published online on 31 August in the journal PLoS Medicine. For their stud...

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/199558.ph

The Sports Club/LA Brings Fitness Fun to Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts!

“Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts and The Sports Club/LA -Boston have teamed up once again to bring fitness fun to the Girl Scouts!Girl Scouts is happy to announce that The Sports Club/LA has created an educational health and fitness curriculum to train Girl Scout volunteers on how to teach their troops about fitness in a fun and interactive way. Private Trainers, Tracy Mernin and Ann Bruck, from The Sports Club/LA -Boston developed an easy-to-follow and fun fitness curriculum, designed to help troop leaders set girls on a path to health and wellness. The complimentary trainings will take...

http://www.prlog.org/10897708-the-sports-clubla-brings-fitness-fun-to-girl-scouts-of-eastern-massachusetts.html

Top 5 Companies in the Leisure Facilities Industry Providing Best Value To Investors

“Town Sports International has a price/sales ratio of 0.13x based on a current price of $2.62 and trailing 12-month sales per share of $20.8.”

http://www.mysmartrend.com/news-briefs/news-watch/top-5-companies-leisure-facilities-industry-providing-best-value-investors-c-1

New Workout Programs Show That Pools Can Attract Exercisers Of All Ages [photos]

‘Water is magic,’ says Laura Ribbins, who's one of the world's leading authorities on aquatic exercise -- perhaps because she's based in the Cayman Islands, where water workouts are possible year-round. I ran into her at the DCAC fitness convention in Alexandria last month, where she was presenting sessions on how to lure baby boomers to water classes with super-athletic moves. As great as water is for older bodies, she recommends it for ‘anyone who's into fitness.’ Unfortunately, the quality of aqua instruction has generally lagged behind that of other classes, which has contributed to the misconception that you can't get a good workout in the water. And the tendency of water workouts to turn into senior citizens' social hour hasn't helped their reputation, either. That's why Teri Bothwell, director of group exercise for Washington area gym chain Sport & Health, has a new mission for its pool programming: "Get it...

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/08/30/AR2010083003624.html

Multiple Sclerosis Sufferers Take Heart From Program

“Multiple sclerosis (MS) sufferers will have access to a new fitness program that could help manage some of the symptoms of the disease. MS Heartmoves is a joint initiative of the Heart Foundation and MS Australia and will be available in Orange at Integra Health Club from next week. The program is adapted from the Heart Foundation’s existing Heartmoves regime for heart disease and diabetes sufferers. The foundation hopes it will encourage MS sufferers to participate in regular exercise. ‘There’s been a bit of a shift in how people approach managing MS as a disease,’ Heartmoves leader...

http://www.centralwesterndaily.com.au/news/local/news/general/multiple-sclerosis-sufferers-take-heart-from-program/1928753.aspx

New Pole Fitness Club Helps Women Spice Up Their Workouts

“The Mayor of Parker calls it the most unique business the town has ever seen. The Mile High Pole Club opened its doors in March with the full support of city leaders. The new club features pole fitness classes and chair dancing for women looking to spice up their workouts. Owner Dionne Sieretzki opened the club in Parker because she lives there and wanted to share pole fitness with other women. She told FOX31, ‘So many different types of women enjoy it, stay-at-home moms, working moms, so why shouldn't we be in the suburbs? I also needed a place closer than Denver to work out.’ With pole fitness studios starting to quickly gain popularity in Colorado, it's no wonder they're starting to make their way to the suburbs. David Cas...

http://www.kdvr.com/news/kdvr-pole-dancing-parker-txt,0,4848702.story