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

VOLUME 16 • NUMBER 1 • JANUARY 2016

New Year Means It’s Primal Time Again What is possible after 21 days of the Primal Transformation program at Bronson Athletic Club? Here is one participant’s experience:

“I was totally thrilled and continue to brag and smile about my results ... My husband and I were so shocked when I arrived back home with my new test results and compared to my results three weeks prior!!:) ALL of my numbers were down—blood sugar, BMI, cholesterol—everything! I have been trying for years to bring my cholesterol down—family issue—and nothing has worked ... I am hooked on this lifestyle forever!”

We would love this to be your story in 2016. Come to a free presentation on Tuesday, Jan. 12, or Wednesday, Jan. 13, to learn all about the program. Small group training sessions begin the week of Jan. 25. See registration details inside. •What is Your ‘Why’ for Resolutions? When the first of January rolls around, it’s a tradition to resolve to start some sort of self-improvement plan. Usually this resolution relates to health. But by Valentine’s Day, many of us have forgotten our commitment, and are back to doing what we were doing before the New Year.

How can you make that New Year’s resolution stick? First, ask yourself “WHY” are you making this goal? What is the reason? Finding the purpose in your desire will allow you to find the willpower and grit to overcome the challenges that will inevitably cross your path. Sometimes you have to look deeper than just a superficial reason (i.e., looking good in a bathing suit at spring break). Ask yourself if you would feel more fulfilled and happy once you achieve what you set out to do.

Once you have your “WHY” figured out, start thinking about your “HOW.” How will making these changes fit into your current lifestyle? Are they manageable and realistic? We can help you with the “HOW TOs” if your goals involve an exercise training plan. The training staff at the BAC is looking forward to seeing you not only in January, but for the rest of the months in 2016 as well! — Lynn Madsen, BAC Personal Trainer •

Find us at: facebook.com/bronsonathleticclub.com

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

It’s our 15th anniversary year, and the BAC will be celebrating in a big way! Save the date for our BIG anniversary party Saturday, Oct. 15, 2016. Longtime members will remember the great anniversary parties, and we’re bringing back the tradition for our special year. Look for more details coming closer to the event, but plan on a great night of food and dancing with your BAC friends and teammates in the fall.

Look for a complete redesign of the Fitness Floor in 2016! This includes the purchase of all-new strength equipment from Life Fitness, featuring Hammer Strength racks, pulleys and cable stations.

The cardio machines, including treadmills, bikes and ARC trainers, are all new within the last few years and will remain in their current locations. However, all the strength machines will be replaced and rearranged in a new footprint. New equipment will be phased in throughout the year. During some of the installations, sections of the floor will be closed off and unavailable for use.

We apologize in advance for any inconvenience, but the results will be well worth the wait!

* * *Dart to the Deli and check out the special combo pricing this month on your favorite sandwich.

Fitness Floor Redesign Coming

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th ANNIVERSARY FITNESS • PERFORMANCE • H

EALTH

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2001 2016

New Due Date—Starting this month, BAC accounts will be due the 20th of the month, rather than the 15th. We have instituted the change as a result of member comments.

feedBAC Response

Meet Ken HoldaChildren at Bronson Rehabilitation Services down the hall from the BAC might be delighted to discover that their therapist is Bert, the chimney sweep from “Mary Poppins.” Or the cape-wearing kid from “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.” Or even Jesus (from “Godspell”).

All of these characters were brought to life on the stage by Ken Holda, M.A., CCC-SLP, a 10-year BAC member and

speech-language pathologist in outpatient pediatric rehabilitation at Bronson’s Elm Valley Drive location. The consummate actor grew up taking dance classes and doing theater in Dearborn, his hometown, before moving to Kalamazoo to attend Western Michigan in 1999.

“Both my job and my extracurricular activities require me to be fit

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

Lauren Blair, AquaticsWhereas many BAC college student teammates leave and start other careers after graduation, Lauren Blair continues to lifeguard and teach swim lessons even after finishing her psychology degree and working as a behavior technician.

“I started working here in 2011—this was the best job to have when I was

going to Western Michigan University. It helped me balance my school with fun work,” she explains. “Even after graduating and getting a job in my field, I can’t let this job go!”

Lauren says the best part of her day is “seeing my swim kids with a big smile on their faces and eager to get into the pool. This is why I have been a swim instructor for eight years—their hard work and energy inspire me to continue teaching and learning new ways to teach. I also love the employees and the atmosphere at Bronson. All of my fellow employees are so welcoming and fun to be around.”

She works a “day job” at Novel Responses Inc., providing in-home therapy for children with autism. “Both jobs have offered many opportunities to put my education to the test,”

J A N U A R Y M V P

Lauren Blair

and active,” Ken says. “Working out at the BAC helps me maintain the strength and endurance I need to keep up with small children all day at work—and to sing and dance my way through a show at night.” He primarily works with preschoolers, helping to develop their early language skills.

Given he didn’t start working out or running until he was in his 20s, Ken has lost weight and gained muscle since joining the club. “I have completed a full marathon, many half marathons and several sprint triathlons. My personal trainer, Dave, helps me to create a plan for whatever endeavor I decide I am going to tackle.” He jokes that BAC members may recognize him as Dave’s client “who yells and complains through all of his sessions.”

Performing on stage since the third grade, Ken has appeared in productions at the Kalamazoo Civic Theatre, Farmers Alley Theatre and the Kindleberger Summer Festival (where he has directed musicals for the past six years). “I’ve recently started acting in films by local filmmaker Chuck Bentley, including one in England in the summer of 2014 and an upcoming project in Paris.” Bravo and kudos, Ken! •Ken Holda

Lauren says. “I have seen my swim kids advance quicker than expected, and I would like to thank the child in me and my education for that.”

Outside of work, the Lake Zurich, Ill., native likes to camp and spend time outdoors, particularly on Kalamazoo-area disc golf courses, where you will find her every day during the season. She also enjoys drawing and “being crafty.” She makes necklaces, bracelets, abstract art and “whatever I am feeling that day. I also love to build and fix things,” Lauren says. “I really enjoy thinking outside of the box.” •

Core Strength is Core of Fitnessby Renae McCullough, BS, MA, AFAA-certified Group Exercise Instructor;PHI and Balanced Body-certified Pilates Instructor

Today everyone hears “strengthen your core!” Your doctor may prescribe core strengthening exercises as part of your therapy following a back injury. As a runner, you must incorporate cross training and core exercises to stay healthy. And, to swing a kettlebell or tennis racquet with appropriate form, you are encouraged to “engage your core.” What REALLY does this mean?

Core training is for everyone! A strong core is just as important to an individual picking up a child as it is for an elite athlete. Please read the complete article at: https://goo.gl/LocGJ3We have listed a few exercises that you can do three to five times a week to strengthen or maintain your core strength.

Lady Lifters Small group strength training for women, including basic movements, form and posturing. Great for those who want a refresher on form. Instructor is Trainer Laura Nomura.WHEN Mondays, 7:15–8:15 a.m., Jan. 18–Feb. 24 (Bronson employees, ask about special class for BAC members/employees only) COST Member $130 | Nonmember $170

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, 5 p.m., Jan. 5 | Feb. 2, 2016 Thursdays, 7 p.m., Jan. 7 | Feb. 4, 2016 COST Member no charge | Nonmember $10

Racquetball TournamentThe BAC is the host site for the annual Southwest Shootout racquetball tournament. For details, contact Richard Westerbrink, rwesterbrink@Riverside-is.com. WHEN Saturday, Jan. 23, 2016; register at http://goo.gl/aNnPQ8

Volleyball Drop-in PlayDrop in for a fun, pick-up game. All members are welcome.WHEN Fridays, 5–8 p.m.

Paddleball LeagueStandard doubles; sign up as an individual, and play three games per week with a partner. Matches at 6 and 7:30 p.m. WHEN Wednesdays, Jan. 6–April 13, 2016 COST Member $35 | Nonmember $80

Racquetball LeagueJoin this fast-paced sport; travel and recreational leagues are available. Players schedule their own matches.WHEN Jan. 5–April 17, 2016 COST Member $35 | Nonmember $80

Couples Ballroom Dance Classes Level 1A beginner ballroom dance class. You must register as a couple, or call Lindsey Ralya to be assigned to a partner.WHEN Tuesdays, Jan. 19–Feb. 23, 2016, 7–8 p.m. COST Member $40 | Nonmember $55 (Fees are per person)

IT’SBACK

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PROGRAMS | RECREATION ralyal@bronsonhg.org

JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2016

PROGRAMS | CLASSES PERSONAL TRAINING lewistev@bronsonhg.org

NEWDAY

NEWDAY

X-citement Growing for Group-XWe are pumped for new offerings coming this year, including the addition of four new lunchtime classes for members who want to get a quick workout in during the day. Watch for those, plus these new classes: • 2 new Spinning® classes (12:15 p.m., Monday/Wednesday).• PiYo™ Introducing a dynamic combination of Pilates and Yoga that can burn serious calories.• Step Interval Similar to a traditional step class (high intensity, yet low impact). Simplified step movements are combined with weight training intervals; less intricate choreography.• Fall Proof Slow, deliberate movements with a series of weight-bearing and stretching functional exercises designed to help with balance and strengthen core muscles.

21-Day Primal Transformation It’s time! Make 2016 your year to

join the movement and learn the simple principles that can help

you eat better, look better and feel better. The program

is based on The Primal Blueprint 21-Day Total Body

Transformation devised by fitness expert and author Mark Sisson. The nutritional advice focuses on elements of the primal style of eating; the exercise component emphasizes primal movement and strength training. Participants will receive a one-on-one meeting with a certified personal trainer to assess their current fitness profile, and six 45-minute, small group training sessions.WHEN Tuesday, Jan. 12, 6 p.m. | Wednesday, Jan. 13, 6 p.m. COST Information sessions FREE for everyoneWHEN Small group training sessions begin week of Jan. 25 COST Member $165 | Nonmember $195 (complete program) Graduate $100 (see Steve Lewis for details)

BAC TED* Talks *Trainer Education and Development

Join us in this series featuring the BAC’s own version of enlightened and informative talks with Personal Trainer Dave Bunt. The January topic is “The Secrets to Making New Year’s Resolutions Last.”WHEN Monday, Jan. 11, 6–6:30 p.m. COST Free for everyone

2016Edition

JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2016

PROGRAMS | CLASSES (CONTINUED) BAC TwirlersJoin our twirling program and learn coordination, flexibility and control. Instructor will contact you regarding class times. WHEN Tuesdays, Jan. 19–April 12, 2016 (Beginners and young children) Thursdays, Jan. 21–April 14, 2016 (Advanced and 18+) COST Member $120 | Nonmember $180

Youth Ballet Dance fun for the little ones. Make it a “pointe” to sign your child up for the fun!WHEN Mondays, Jan. 18–April 11, 2016* Toddler Ballet, 4:45–5:15 p.m. (ages 2–3) Junior Ballet, 5:30–6:15 p.m. (ages 4–6) COST Member $120 | Nonmember $180*Includes one week off for spring break

Pregnancy Group Exercise

WHEN Water: Tuesdays, 7–7:45 p.m., Jan. 5–Feb. 9 | Feb. 16–Mar. 22 Yoga: Thursdays, 5:30–6:30 p.m., Jan. 7–Feb. 11 | Feb. 18–Mar. 24 COST Member $40 | Nonmember $60

Parkinson’s Exercise ProgramThis class series is designed for symptom control and to optimize the physical function of individuals affected by Parkinson’s disease. Contact Sheri Shon, shons@bronsonhg.org, for class placement. WHEN Mondays and Wednesdays, Jan. 4–March 23, 2016 Tuesdays and Thursdays, Jan. 5–March 24, 2016 COST Member $120 | Nonmember $168

Tai Chi A meditative martial art, Tai Chi helps rid your body of unnecessary mental and physical tension. WHEN Thursdays, 6:30–8 p.m., Jan. 7–Feb. 11 | Feb. 18–Mar. 24 COST Member $20 | Nonmember $60

Cancer Survivors Exercise ProgramIf you’ve been treated for cancer in the last five years and are not currently receiving chemotherapy or radiation, check out this FREE 12-week exercise program that will give you a physical and emotional boost. This session is taught by BAC personal trainers; requires physician clearance to participate. Email survivorcise@wmcc.org.WHEN Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1–2 p.m., beginning Jan. 12 COST Free for participants; call (269) 373-7434 to register

Country Line Dance Classes Level 1If you like country music and want to try a different type of workout, join us for a fun, rousing activity.WHEN Tuesdays, Jan. 19–Feb. 23, 2016, 8–9 p.m. COST Member $30 | Nonmember $45 (Fees are per person)

BAC Dolphins Winter Swim MeetThis event is open to all past and present BAC swimmers, including nonmembers. Swimmers may participate in up to three events. A pizza party will follow the swim events. WHEN Saturday, Feb. 13; events begin at 11 a.m. COST $15 for all; includes party and ribbons

Group Swim Lessons (Winter I and II)Group 30-minute swim lessons are available for all ages, from age 6 months through adult. (Private lessons also available.) WHEN Tuesdays–Thursdays, Saturdays Jan. 5–Feb. 20 | Feb. 23–April 9 COST Member $65 | Nonmember $80

BAC Dolphins Swim Teams | Pre-Swim TeamThree levels for swimmers, beginner through advanced. Swim conditioning also available.WHEN Jan. 5–Feb. 18 | Feb. 23–April 7 (See flyer online or at the club)

Sunday Swim WorkoutsJoin BAC swim coach Juan Tavares for an early morning swim workout. Members must sign up in advance. WHEN Sundays, through March 29, 2016, 7:05–8 a.m. If needed, overflow session will be 8:05–9 a.m. COST No charge for members

Move, Tumble, Dance and PlayA fun fusion of movement, dance and tumbling. A parent or guardian must be present and participate for children ages 18 months through two years.WHEN Fridays, Jan. 22–April 15, 2016* 4:30–5 p.m. (18 months–2 years) | 5:15–5:45 p.m. (ages 3–5) COST Member $120 | Nonmember $180

Hip Hop/FunkA combination of hip hop and funk dance for kids ages 6–12.WHEN Fridays, Jan. 22–April 15, 2016,* 6–6:45 p.m. COST Member $120 | Nonmember $180 (12-week session)

NEWDAY

GROUP-X | PROGRAMS shons@bronsonhg.org

OTHER PROGRAMS AT THE BAC

JUST FOR KIDS ralyal@bronsonhg.org

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