Passport to Fitness Did you know the BAC participates in the IHRSA* Passport Program? This entitles you to enjoy guest access at more than 1,700 clubs worldwide. Visit healthclubs.com/passport to locate a club in the area where you will be traveling. Call ahead to confirm availability. Upon arrival at the participating club, present your passport ID (available from Membership at the BAC), and pay the guest fee.*Int’l. Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Assn.

The BAC ConneCTionF i t n e s s • P e r F o r m a n c e • H e a lt H • F u n

6789 Elm Valley Drive, Kalamazoo, MI 49009 • (269) 544-3200 • bronsonathleticclub.com

VOLUME 15 • NUMBER 4 • APRIL 2015

BAC Briefs Contest Encourages MovementCan you move for 150 minutes? In observance of Medical Fitness Week April 20–26, the BAC is encouraging members to be active and commit to a fit and healthy lifestyle. The MOVE150 challenge focuses on getting you moving at least 150 minutes throughout the week.

Challenge participants will receive a free bingo-like card with a variety of activities to complete at the BAC, from group-x classes and swimming to cardio machine workouts. At the end of the week, turn in your completed card (one entry per person) to be entered into the prize drawing. Grand prize for members is a month of free primary dues. There are two levels for members and children of members: age 13 to adult and 6 to 12. All children (of members) age 17 and younger may use the club at no charge during the week if they are participating in the MOVE150 challenge. Cards are free and are available at the Service Desk. For questions, contact Lindsey Ralya, ralyal@bronsonhg.org. •This month’s article “as told by” your fellow members:

Personal Trainer Confidential By Lynn Madsen, BAC Personal Trainer

Personal Trainers are like bartenders and hairdressers. Our clients confide in us, and share things that they wouldn’t normally tell others. After the “Golden Rule” article appeared in February, more clients shared behaviors that bug them most at the club. Do you recognize:

Weight Droppers (lifters who throw their heavy weights down after a set). Not only is the loud noise startling, but this could be dangerous if the weight lands on a passer-by’s toes. Over-Odored Exercisers (excessive personal aroma). Whether it be from too much perfume/cologne/aftershave or the smell that comes from re-worn gym clothes, be aware that more than your aura could be emanating from your body—and that is not a good thing. Note: We get more complaints about overpowering fragrance than we do about offensive body odor. Late Comers (being tardy to group exercise classes). Coming into class late disrupts other members’ experiences. Not only can that impact the flow of the class (think: yoga), it may be irritating to the others who have to shift their space to accommodate you.Class Scofflaws (not tidying up after group-x). If you take a class that uses equipment or mats, please stow any items in their proper storage place when you are finished.Bathroom Overlookers (failing to keep bathrooms presentable). The bathrooms on the fitness floor upstairs are used by many people. Please be cognizant of how you leave them post use. Make your mother proud! Similarly: While we do have locker room staff to wash and replace the laundry, just like your mom we do ask that your towels make it into the baskets/bins provided, not left on the floor. •

As promised, we have delivered our all-new Life Fitness treadmills to the fitness floor. The new machines feature a 19” integrated LCD touchscreen with many options, including enhanced interaction, Internet connectivity and more. Features, from the open sight lines to the Activity Zone that places the most-used controls at a user’s fingertips, are designed to the deliver the ultimate cardio experience.

* * *Deli Smoothie Special

$1 off Large and Small sizes* * *

Check OutThe New

Treads

21-Day Primal Transformation

If you missed the successful inaugural session in January, now you can take the BAC’s 21-day challenge that follows Mark Sisson’s The Primal Blueprint 21-Day Total Body Transformation. See flyer for complete information.

when FREE Information Sessions: Tuesday, April 21 / Wednesday, April 22, 6 p.m.

Personal Assessments: begin week of April 27

Small Group Training: begin week of May 4

cost Member $165 / Nonmember $195

SFG Kettlebell User Course

Back for a second year! The 2014 event was popular with both novices and experienced kettlebell lifters. Learn how to get the most out of the kettlebell in this one-day intensive training course with a guest instructor certified by StrongFirst. No previous kettlebell experience required. Register online: http://goo.gl/t9kLbs

when Saturday, May 2, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. cost $299

Kettlebell Intro Course

Check out Kettlebell FIT class times on our group-x master schedule. Before attending, please take the intro course scheduled the first of each month: when Tuesdays, April 7 / May 5, noon and 5 p.m. Thursdays, April 2 / May 7, 7 p.m. cost Member no charge / Nonmember $10 each class

Sunday Swim Workouts (Members Only)

Come for an early morning weekend workout with swim coach Juan Tavares. Members must sign up in advance each week.

when Sundays, through May 17, 7:10–8 a.m. If needed, overflow session will be 8:10–9 a.m.

Homeschool Group Swim Lessons

Daytime classes designed for kids 6–12 available for lessons during a homeschool curriculum. (See flier for times)

when Mondays or Thursdays, April 13–May 28 cost Member $50 / Nonmember $65

Group Swim Lessons

Group 30-minute swim lessons are available for all ages, from age 6 months through adult. (Private lessons also available)

when Tuesdays–Thursdays/Saturdays, April 14–May 30 cost Member $65 / Nonmember $80

PERSONAL TRAINING lewistev@bronsonhg.org

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BAC Dolphins Swim Teams / Pre-Swim Team

Three levels for swimmers, beginner through advanced. Swim conditioning also available.

when April 14–May 28 (see flier online or at club for cost)

Registration is required for all Programs Department events Deadline for early registration is seven (7) days prior to the beginning of the session, unless otherwise noted. Programs will be canceled two (2) days prior to the start date if not adequately filled. Participants must cancel at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Any cancellations made after then are subject to management approval for any refunds, less fees.

Spring Break Basketball Clinic

Our popular spring break clinic is back with a whole new staff of coaches to help your kids improve skills and have fun. Boys and girls are welcome!

when Monday–Friday, April 6–10, 9–9:55 a.m. (ages 6–7) /

10–10:55 a.m. (ages 8–10) / 11–11:55 a.m. (ages 11–12)

cost Member $55 / Nonmember $75

Move, Tumble, Dance and Play

A fun fusion of ballet and tumbling, this class is designed to get the little ones moving in a unique way—and to keep their focus on learning new skills. A parent or guardian must be present and participate for children 18 months to 2 years.

when Fridays, April 3–May 8 4:30–5 p.m. (18 mo.–2 yrs.) / 5:15–5:45 p.m. (ages 3–5)

cost Member $40 / Nonmember $55

Hip Hop/Funk

A combination of hip hop and funk dance for kids ages 6–12.

when Fridays, April 3–May 8, 6–6:45 p.m. cost Member $75 / Nonmember $95

Youth Ballet

Dance fun for the little ones. when Mondays, through May 4 (scheduled to start March 30)

Baby Ballet, 4:45–5:15 p.m. (ages 2–3)

Junior Ballet, 5:30–6:15 p.m. (ages 4–6)

Saturdays, April 4–May 9 Junior Ballet, 11–11:45 a.m. (ages 4–6)

Baby Ballet, 12–12:30 p.m. (ages 2–3)

cost Member $75 / Nonmember $95

Nordic Walking Clinic

Come to a FREE one-day introductory clinic and walk demonstrating the use of Nordic poles on a trek to fitness.

APRIL–MAY 2015 PROGRAMS / CLASSES

AQUATICS (269) 544-3232 mackalus@bronsonhg.org

JUST FOR KIDS ralyal@bronsonhg.org

GROUP-X / PROGRAMS shons@bronsonhg.org

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FREE

Meet Marathoner Kathy PrevatteSurprise is the name of the Arizona town where Kathy Prevatte ran the Desert Classic Half Marathon, “all uphill in the White Tanks Mountains,” in late January. No surprise (for those who know the dedicated distance runner) was the result: She finished first in her class.

Since joining the BAC two years ago to “have a more complete workout” and all the amenities “any athlete would ever want,” she trains at the club every morning around 5:30 a.m. before work at Bronson LakeView Hospital. During the winter months she ups that to twice a day visits, four to five days a week.

“I focus all my workout activity to assist and improve my timing and endurance for my marathon runs,” she explains. “Spinning® class helped leg strength and endurance. I can get my miles in for the day all winter long on the track.”

Kathy started running to help with stress. “My husband passed away in 2004 unexpectedly. I had three children still at home, and lots of stress to deal with,” she says. “God and my running was my lifesaver.” Her goal is to add more runs each year. “I started out with three 5Ks, one half marathon and one full marathon (finishing the latter eighth in her age group) in 2013.” In 2014, she completed four 5Ks, two half marathons and two full marathons (third in class for both).

She loves the outdoors, and enjoys kayaking, mountain climbing and cross-country skiing, in addition to running. Kathy says she needs no inspiration to exercise or follow a healthy diet: “It is my life!”

Kathy’s life goal is to be able to run marathons until she is 90. “I want to finish the task of Joy Johnson, who ran the New York Marathon.” At age 86 and running her 25th race in New York, Joy fell and hit her head about mile 20. She refused medical care until after completing the marathon. Joy finished, but died the next day. Says Kathy, the aspiring nonagenarian marathoner: “No running is a bad day for me.” •

M E M B E R P R O F I L E

Kathy Prevatte taking first in class at Desert Classic

Half Marathon

Poles are provided; please register to ensure your spot and equipment.

when Wednesdays, April 8 / May 13, 6 p.m. cost No charge for members and nonmembers

Spinning® 4-Teens and Parents

Looking for a way to get your teens excited about fitness? Keep them conditioned for summer activities! It’s also a great exercise for less active teens—and for any level of fitness. Our revived Spinning® 4-Teens & Parents is a specialty class that will inspire and motivate kids (and you) toward improved health, physique and self-confidence. Join instructor Becky Heintzkill and plan to attend with your teen.

when Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m. (bike fit/instruction) 6–6:45 (class)

cost Member no charge / $10 class (nonmember ages 13–17)

Tai Chi

Relax and develop whole body connections, discover your internal strength and build your health from the inside out.

when Thursdays, April 2–May 7, 6:30–8 p.m. cost Member $20 / Nonmember $60

Beginner Ballet Barre

An introduction to classical ballet for adults. No formal training is necessary; the instructor will accommodate all levels of dancers.

when Fridays, April 3–May 8, 10–11:30 a.m. cost Member $40 / Nonmember $60

Self-Defense: How to Not Be a Victim

Learn to recognize, eliminate and avoid potential trouble by becoming more aware of your surroundings.

when Saturdays, April 25 / May 30, 1–3:30 p.m. cost Member no charge / Nonmember $30

Pickleball Drop-in Challenge

To ensure Pickleball players have quality access to the designated painted lines on the gym floor, check out the pilot Pickleball Drop-in Challenge program.

when Sundays, 10 a.m.–noon / Mondays, 7–9 p.m. / Wednesdays, 4–6 p.m. / Fridays, noon–2 p.m.

Kids Get Active Triathlon Discounts

BAC members and Bronson employees will receive a discount for Spirit Racing LLC events this season. Coupon code for online registration is: bronson2015. The club is sponsoring the Kids Get Active Triathlon in Portage Aug. 8. For information, visit www.spiritracing.us.

DATES FOR ALL EVENTS SUBJECT TOCHANGE DUE TO PARTICIPATION

CALL (269) 544-3200 TO REGISTER

PROGRAMS / RECREATION ralyal@bronsonhg.org

OTHER EVENTS BAC Sponsored BAC Blood Drive—Did you know the blood used at Bronson comes from Michigan Blood? Show your support and donate at the next drive Wednesday, May 6, from 2–6 p.m. Every donor receives a free guest pass to the club. You may drop in or make an appointment at http://goo.gl/QEN4Pd (type Bronson Athletic Club in location).

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the combination worked—and allowed him to regain a normal, mostly pain-free life. Now semi-retired, he has more time to de-vote to his physical health and well-being. He works out at BAC four to six times a week, has dropped 30 pounds and says he feels great. He still receives massages, to help keep his muscles loose and stay relaxed.

“The SolSpring massage therapists are very professional and customize my massage to meet my body’s needs,” he says. Dave recommends massage for people of all ages. His 87-year-old father receives massage occasionally to help ease his own back problems. See how massage can improve your health and fitness. Call the BAC at (269) 544-3200 and schedule an appointment today.

Longtime BAC member Dave Martin says that massage therapy literally restored his quality of life. He owned

an injection molding business in Kalamazoo for 18 years. The job involved heavy lifting every day, and it really took a toll on his back. The pain became so bad that he couldn’t sit, stand or sleep, he recounts. His doctor recommended

regular massages, in addition to a regimen of physical therapy and workouts. Dave says

2015 IronBAC Winners —Congratulations to all finishers in the 12th annual IronBAC Triathlon March 21. You are to be commended for your efforts. A special recognition to Glen Kellam (defending 2014 winner) and Jill Hermann-Wilmarth, the top male and female finishers, respectively.

Martha Pineda-GutierrezRetiring in 2013 after 30 years as a secretary with Kalamazoo’s Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigation Division, Martha Pineda-Gutierrez wasn’t quite sure what to do next. “I sought employment with Bronson Hospital, and there it was—a job opening with Bronson Athletic Club,” she recounts. “Now this was definitely a different avenue, and I felt this would be a challenge, plus I’d have the opportunity to utilize this great facility.”

A Kalamazoo native and the youngest of seven siblings, Martha lived in Florida, Texas and California before returning home to her large extended family. Her husband, José M. Gutierrez, passed away in 2011 after

a long chronic illness. Her birth daughter, Ginger Wright, and family live in Florida. Today Martha’s four-legged family includes dog Nina and cats, Pepé and Willi.

The self-described sports “observer” enjoys football, but particularly loves attending baseball games, both the Detroit Tigers and the hometown Kalamazoo Growlers games in the summer.

Hired last April as a women’s locker room attendant, Martha and her trademark smile and helpful demeanor are currently on duty Friday mornings and Sunday evenings at the club. “I truly appreciate my supervisor, Rachelle Brennan, and my locker room coworkers. They are always there to assist in any way they can, like a family,” she says.

“I am very blessed to have my above-mentioned family—plus all of you as an extension in my life,” Martha says. “Enjoy each day and don’t sweat the small stuff. What counts is being thankful daily, and let it start from your heart.” •

A P R I L M V P

Martha Pineda-Gutierrez

Look Before You BAC TrackIn the last few months, there have been several member comments about the track. We revised the signs at every track entrance to reinforce the following rules. A change is that the right (outside) lane is for passing only.

• Allrunnersandwalkersshouldbeintheleft(inside)lane only.

• Theright(outside)laneisforpassingonly.• Onlytwo(2)abreastwalkingallowedininsidelane;

single file passing only in the outside lane.• Nostoppinginthetracklane.• Childrenundertheageof13arenotallowedonthe

track.

Increased club use during the winter increased track congestion, particularly noticeable with passing slower runners/walkers. Please be courteous and follow the rules above, in addition to observing these guidelines:

• Keepyoureyeoutforslower(andfaster)memberswhen you pass someone.

• Whenpassing,lookbehindyoubeforemakingyourmove. Someone may be coming up quickly.

• Watchforoncomingtrafficwhenyouenterthetrack.Let speedier tracksters pass before merging.

• Ifsomeonewishestopassyou(walkingorrunning)please move left and single file to accommodate.

• Pleasedonotresettheclockifthereissomeoneelseonthe track. Wait until the next :00, and then start timing.

Member CitesMassage Benefits

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