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Julie McCleery, Your turn Published 12:53 p.m. PT Dec. 18, 2019 | Updated 1:12 p.m. PT Dec. 18, 2019

People who live in and around Seattle areamong the nations most active. The region is an outdoor recreation haven for both locals and visitors who enjoyhiking, biking and kayaking.

I conductresearch about coaching and youth sports. To see if the roughly 450,000 kids who live inthe county which encompasses Seattleand its surrounding suburbs get enough exercise through play, sports and outdoor recreation, I teamed up with King County Parks and the Aspen Institute, a think tank.

Moving enough

Federal guidelinesset by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention call for all kids between 6 and 18 years old to be physically active for at least anhour every day. Anything from playing tag at recess to practicing basketball after school to riding a bike to a neighbors house counts.

Organized sports, whether in or out of school, might be the main way you think kids get exercise. Taking part in these programs, whether its a dance class or a swim team, gives kids a chance not only to be physically active but also to learn teamwork and grow more resilient. We found that about 80% of kids in King County have participated in sports programs.

Despite this, we found that only about a fifth of the countys youth get enough physical activity, which is lower than thenational average of about a fourth. States with similarly low rates of physical activity includeAlaska and Maine.

In King County, boys get more exercise than girls which is similar to national trends. However, we found that, unlike national trends, boys and girls are participating in organized sports at the same rate.

Engaging immigrants

My research partners and I also found that young immigrants and the children of immigrants were the most likely to be getting too little exercise.

Morethan one in five of the countys residents were born outside the U.S.We found that only one in 10 of all children who dont speak English at home are spending at least an hour per day being active.

Just half of these immigrants, many of whose families speakSpanish, Chinese or Vietnameseas their first language, have ever participated in an organized sport, like tennis or soccer, compared with almost 90% of their peers whose families were born here.

Further, we learned that children being raised in immigrant families were less likely to play at parks near their homes.

Identifying obstacles

We wanted to better understand what barriers are standing in the way of children and teens being more active. By conducting focus groups and interviews, we determined that the cost of joining teams and the challenges of shuttling children to practice and games are the biggest barriers to participation in everything from baseball to ballet both in and out of school.

Parent after parent expressed dismay at the expense. One parent told us the sports her family does are whatever we can find thats free.

Many Seattle-area clubs and recreation programs, typically run by local governments, provide scholarships. But we also found that scholarships are not enough to topple barriers in the way of many families.

For young immigrant athletes, for example, families have trouble learning how to enroll their kids in these programs when websites and the requisite forms are in English only.

Opportunities for young people to join teams and take part in sports through other means can be quite different from what immigrants are familiar with. A number of immigrant families expressed frustration that more sport and recreation programs were not offered directly at schools, which they said would make it more likely for their children to participate.

Here, its very expensive to learn how to swim, a father told my colleague. But all of my kids who went to school in South Africa, all of them learned how to swim and they are very good swimmers. It was made available to them at school and it was free.

Seeking solutions

In addition, many non-English speakers also told us that they dont feel welcome on teams.

We believe that one way to fix that problem would be for sports programs run by schools, the county and independent organizations alike to recruit and hire more coaches of color. Another would be ensuring that all coaches gettraining in diversity, equity and inclusion. None of the coaches in our coach survey reported being trained in these issues.

Not getting enough physical activity and losing out on the benefits of team sports doesnt just potentially harm the young people who are overly sedentary. It also takes a toll oncollegeand professional sports teams, as well as the official teams representing the United States at the Olympics and competitions like the soccerWorld Cupbecause it limits the available talent pool.

Following the release of our research in September, public health officials, policymakers, educators, businesses, professional sports teams and youth sports programs created theKing County Play Equity Coalition.

Guided by our findings, this coalition aims to make it easier for all kids in our region to join teams, play outside and stay active. The coalition will advocate for policies like longer recess and reduced fees for school sports, as well as help expand programs like green school yards andSoccer without Bordersthat give kids more places and possibilities for active play.

Julie McCleery is a research associate and lecturerCenter for Leadership in Athletics at the University of Washington. She wrote this for The Conversation.

Read or Share this story: https://www.kitsapsun.com/story/opinion/columnists/2019/12/18/exercise-shortage-northwest/2670276001/

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An exercise shortage in the Northwest - Kitsap Sun

More than 62% of Americans are overweight or obese, putting them at greater risk for health issues like coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoarthritis and even some cancers.

While hectic schedules and daily stressors can make it hard to stick to a weight loss plan, health experts fromHealthline,The Cleveland ClinicandJohns Hopkins Medicineemphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy weight.

To help get you started, here are some of their tips:

Researchers have found that when obese people set unrealistic expectations for themselves, they are more likely to quit their weight loss program within the year, accordingto Healthline.

Instead, experts suggest shooting to lose no more than two pounds a week. Anything more than that can lead to frustration when those pounds are not so easily shed.

Maintaining new healthy habits isn't always easy. That is why it is important to find ways to stay motivated. Are you doing it for your health? So you can be more active for your kids?

Whatever is driving your weight-loss goals, keep that at the forefront on your mind, especially on those days when you are tired and want to give in to temptation.

Cleveland Clinic experts also recommend that taking time to think about the challenges keeping you from losing weight. It could stress, work or family schedules, among other possibilities. Once you have a better idea of any possible obstacles, set some goals to make the needed changes in your daily life.

If you recognize that chips are your Achilles heel, stop buying them at the supermarket every week. If you tend to eat more junk food when you are out drinking with friends, then you might want to turn those weekly hangouts at the bar into other types of social interaction. Maybe try going to a museum or taking a class together.

Also, limit snacking in front of the television or computer. People can be lessmindful about what they are eating and can easily consume more calories than they realize.

Experts say that there is nothing wrong with a cheat day every once in a while. If you are at a wedding, enjoy a piece of that delicious cake and one or two glasses of wine. Or if you are just having a really bad day, that bowl of ice cream while watching Netflix doesn't have to completely derail your weight-loss plan. Try to plan your cheat days when you can and remember that a little indulgence is OK.

People tend to grab those not-so-healthy snacks and meals when they are rushed for time or when they are tired at the end of the work day and didn't plan ahead for dinner. It all comes down to preparation.

On the weekend, try to prepare healthy snacks and lunches to take to work or school, and have all the ingredients on hand at home for dinner to avoid the temptation to order pizza again.

One weight-loss study found that participants achieved more success when they started both dieting and exercising at the beginning of their weight-loss plans.Exercise can be as simple as a quick walk or more intense like elliptical training or playing a sport.

Stay motivated and invested in your weight-loss plan by tracking your progress and letting family and friends know what you are trying to do so they can cheer you on.

Life often is more fun and easier with a friend. So why not join a weight-loss program with a couple of them? The extra support will help keep you on track with your weight-loss goals.

"Research has shown that eating and exercise habits are greatly affected by your social network,"according toKerry J. Stewart, professor of Medicine, Division of Cardiology at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. "In other words, you're more likely to exercise and eat smaller portions if you spend time with people who do the same, and vice versa. So choose some fit and healthy friends, and get your immediate family to join you and support your healthy habits."

Nutritionists recommend a high protein breakfast to provide the proper fuel for the day ahead. Eating six smaller meals instead of three big meals throughout the day also can keep energy levels from flagging and make it tempting to reach for that hidden stash of cookies during the mid-afternoon slump.

Good snacks to keep on hand include graham crackers, oat bran, whole wheat pretzels, fruit and nuts. Stewart also suggests that people avoid foods with trans fat and limit their sugar and salt intakes.

If you still find yourself struggling with your weight-loss goals, talk to your doctor about nutrition and weight-loss programs you can join for added guidance and support.

Link:
Here's how to stick to a weight loss plan in the new year - PhillyVoice.com

Families Motivating Recovery Support Group

This group offers a safe place where community members can receive support and learn more effective ways to communicate with their loved ones struggling with substance abuse. The groups are an affiliate of Kanawha Pastoral Counseling Center (KPCC) and are free and open to the public.

Meetings are scheduled for 4:30 p.m. at St. Marys Conference Center, 2849 5th Ave., Huntington (304-526-1188) and 6:30 p.m. at PROACT, 800 20th St., Huntington (304-696-8715).

LOCATION: Wellness Center Aerobics Room, St. Marys Regional Heart Institute, first floor

INFORMATION: This class combines fast and slow rhythms that tone and sculpt the body using principles from aerobics and dance to achieve cardio and muscle-toning benefits. The cost is $5 per class or a package of eight classes for $35. Free trial classes are available. 304-526-1660.

LOCATION: Wellness Center Aerobics Room, St. Marys Regional Heart Institute, first floor

INFORMATION: This class combines fast and slow rhythms that tone and sculpt the body using principles from aerobics and fitness to achieve cardio and muscle-toning benefits. Cost is $5 per class or a package of eight classes for $35. Free trial classes are available. 304-526-1660.

Free Diabetic Foot Screenings

LOCATION: Wound Healing Center, 1600 Medical Center Drive, Suite 2500

INFORMATION: Do you suffer from lack of sensation, a feeling of pins and needles, or pain in your feet? If you have diabetes, regular foot screenings are important. Learn your risks at these free, five-minute screenings. More information: 304-399-3510.

Families Motivating Recovery Support Group

This group offers a safe place where community members can receive support and learn more effective ways to communicate with their loved ones struggling with substance abuse. The groups are an affiliate of Kanawha Pastoral Counseling Center (KPCC) and are free and open to the public.

Meetings are scheduled for 4:30 p.m. at St. Marys Conference Center, 2849 5th Ave., Huntington (304-526-1188) and 6:30 p.m. at PROACT, 800 20th St., Huntington (304-696-8715).

LOCATION: Wellness Center Aerobics Room, St. Marys Regional Heart Institute, first floor

INFORMATION: This free exercise class is open to all seniors. Registration is not required. More information: 304-399-7444.

LOCATION: Wellness Center Aerobics Room, St. Marys Regional Heart Institute, first floor

INFORMATION: This class combines fast and slow rhythms that tone and sculpt the body using principles from aerobics and dance to achieve cardio and muscle-toning benefits. The cost is $5 per class or a package of eight classes for $35. Free trial classes are available. More information: 304-526-1660.

LOCATION: Wellness Center Aerobics Room, St. Marys Regional Heart Institute, first floor

INFORMATION: This class combines fast and slow rhythms that tone and sculpt the body using principles from aerobics and fitness to achieve cardio and muscle-toning benefits. Cost is $5 per class or a package of eight classes for $35. Free trial classes are available. More information: 304-526-1660.

LOCATION: Wellness Center Aerobics Room, St. Marys Regional Heart Institute, first floor

INFORMATION: This free exercise class is open to all seniors. Registration is not required. More information: 304-399-7444.

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Healthy classes, events and programs - Huntington Herald Dispatch

I live in Michigan where for seven months a year, the weather is terrible for running. In the summer, when its supposed to be ideal, I often run as early in the day as possible to avoid heat and humidity. During its frigid winters, theres no chance of logging miles outside, no matter how bundled up I get. Because of this, I typically hang up my running shoes for the season come October.

Then the NordicTrack Commercial 2950 Treadmill arrived in my home. Now, no matter the season or the weather, I can still go on an enjoyable run. From its near-endless supply of interactive workouts to the ability to create custom routes via Google Street View, the 2950 has so much to offer. I even find myself still drawn to it when its nice enough to run outside.

Read more: The best treadmills for your home gym

The treadmill also features impressive speed and incline ranges capable of adjusting in a matter of seconds, as well as a quality set of speakers. Though there are plenty of other at-home treadmills on the market, theres a lot to the 2950 that sets it apart from the competition.

The 2950 comes standard with a heart rate chest monitor and a 1-year iFit Coach subscription, which features live interactive training with elite personal trainers. The training programs allow you to either do workouts in a studio, or you can opt for the trainers to take you on runs to beautiful spots throughout the world. After the 1-year iFit trial expires, expect a $180 per year cost for an individual plan and $396 per year for a family plan (up to 5 accounts).

The treadmill measures 79 inches long, 39.2 inches wide, and 66.9 inches high. You can, however, fold the running surface in order to reduce its footprint to 41.9 inches long, 39.2 inches wide, and 70.7 inches high. The tread belt is 22 inches wide by 60 inches long, which offered plenty of room for my six-foot-tall frame and less-than-perfect running stride.

The arms on either side of the treadmill are roughly 15.5 inches long, and there are trays on either side of the console that easily fit my 1-liter water bottle. Theres also another tray beneath the display that offers plenty of room for towels, a smartphone, or other sundries. The weight capacity is 300 pounds.

The 2950 features a 4.25 continuous-duty horsepower (CHP) DurX Commercial Plus Motor, which is designed to reduce noise and avoid overheating. It also adjusts for declines of up to 3% and inclines up to 15%, and features a top speed of up to 12 miles per hour.

The frame and drive motor are each backed by lifetime warranties, while its parts carry a 5-year warranty and assembly labor a two-year warranty.

Amazon buyers get a bit of extra incentive when purchasing the NordicTrack treadmill as the price includes free delivery and assembly. The 2950 comes in a box that weighs well over 300 pounds, meaning this isnt a DIY type of project. Three men carried the box up my double L-shaped staircase before assembling the treadmill in a little over an hour. They also hauled all the packaging away.

From there, I connected the unit to the internet, which turned out to be an easy process. Next, I spent 20 minutes updating the software to the latest firmware; registration took another 15. But within an hour of the delivery crew finishing the assembly, I was hiking through a digital version of the Swiss Alps.

The treadmill sits in my office, which isnt the most spacious area of my home. Fortunately, the hydraulic system makes folding the treadmill so effortless, Im able to do it with just one hand. This frees up plenty of room and avoids turning my office into being only a treadmill room.

In the three months Ive used the NordicTrack Commercial 2950, Ive logged more than 175 miles of running. One of its highlights is its versatility of workouts. Not only are you able to either choose a workout video where you run with an instructor but it also lets you create custom courses via Google Street View. Ive even been able to use this as a way to get familiar with a new town I might travel to for work. I appreciate that the incline adjusts to accurately match the topography where Im running.

I usually listen to audiobooks while running, and I like that my phone connects to the treadmill seamlessly over Bluetooth. And, the speakers are loud enough to be heard over the fan and the thudding of my feet. When I choose to tune into the trainer, I appreciate how positive they always are. They do a good job of pushing me to keep going.

My favorite workout program is the Boston Marathon Series with Ashley Paulson. This consists of five videos that take you through the entire Boston Marathon course at a pace of about 10 minutes per mile. Ashley tells you a bit about the race as you go, chats with fellow runners, and helps keep a positive vibe along the way.

Since Im just a run-for-fun runner, I invited my friend, Ted Westbrook, a competitive distance runner, to give the treadmill a go for himself. He admitted it was among the best hes used. One aspect that particularly impressed him was how quickly the speed adjusts. After starting at a pace of 7 mph, he upped it to 12 mph and the treadmill adjusted to the new speed in under 8 seconds. As a frequent Boston Marathon finisher, Ted appreciated the machines ability to adjust the incline to match the course a feature that would be a useful training tool since the marathon starts with several declines.

I sweat a lot. Im usually pouring sweat within the first mile of a run and since I typically run roughly four miles each workout, this leaves the machine covered in perspiration. I do make a point of wiping it down after each run, but some areas are hard to get dry, such as the tray under the console. The vertical uprights even appear to have permanent streak marks from my sweat.

The user manual does recommend regularly cleaning it with a damp cloth and some mild soap, which has helped a bit. If you sweat as much as I do, you may want to consider giving it a wipe down after each use.

Though the treadmills 22-inch touchscreen display is a nice feature, the fact its unable to function as a computer monitor to stream media is unfortunate. I sometimes enjoy getting a few steps in while catching up on TV shows or watching a sporting event and was only able to do this by using my laptop and positioning it just right on the unit. Being able to do this on the screen provided would be much more convenient.

Another drawback was how the treadmill seemed to rock a bit after it was first assembled. This couldve been due to the uneven hardwood floors of my old house but to fix it, I placed a Square36 Exercise Mat under it. This not only stopped the rocking but also protected my floors from the treadmill and my buckets of sweat.

Though I had a few nitpicks, none were significant enough to steer me away from wanting to constantly use the NordicTrack Commercial 2950 Treadmill when I wanted to go for a run. But, at $3,000, is it worth it?

If you have the money, then yes. With a sizable track, strong motor, large touchscreen display, and impressive workout programs, the NordicTrack Commercial 2950 is a versatile and full-featured at-home treadmill. This is a particularly good investment for your health if you live in an area where the weather makes it difficult to routinely exercise outside or suitable gyms are inconvenient and expensive.

However, $3,000 may well be out of most runners budget. Fortunately, there are some ways you can save if youre willing to give up a few of its features. Though the 2950 is the top-of-the-line model in NordicTracks Commercial Series of treadmills, there are two other models which cost significantly less: The 2450 and the 1750.

The 2450 currently costs $2,299 on Amazon, but expert assembly costs an additional $112.97. It has less power than the 2950 with its 4-CHP motor, as well as a smaller screen (14 inches as opposed to 22 inches). Other than that, all its major specs are virtually identical: It has the same size track, along with the same speed and incline options. It also comes with a one-year iFit membership.

The 1750 is $1,799 right now on Amazon and includes free expert assembly, making it the cheapest option of the three. The major differences from the 2950 are its weaker (but still quite powerful) 3.75-CHP motor, its smaller 10-inch touchscreen, and the fact it only inclines to 12 percent. All other major specs are the same.

If none of the NordicTrack Commercial Series treadmills appeal to you, we encourage you to check out our guide to the best treadmills. Perhaps youre on a budget and want to consider the Horizon Fitness treadmill that only costs $600, or maybe you prefer a race-specific model like ProForm Pros 2000.

If you have the money, however, I strongly recommend considering the NordicTrack Commercial 2950 Treadmill. It offers an enjoyable and convenient way to boost your cardio health when the weather outside is poor. If youre like me, you might even prefer to still run on it when its nice. Its that good.

Pros: Comes with a chest heart rate monitor and a one-year iFit membership, adjusts to speeds up to 12 mph quickly, features an incline range of -3 to 15%, comes with a lifetime warranty on frame and motor, free expert assembly

Cons: Screen is limited to workout functions and programs and cant stream personal media, requires frequent cleaning if you sweat a lot

Read the rest here:
This NordicTrack treadmills immersive display made everything but the cobblestone of Bostons streets feel real and its worth every penny of its...

Global risk management provider SAI Global is urging employers to prioritise the wellbeing of their employees, revealing five benefits of doing so.

Rod Beath, workplace safety specialist at SAI Global, reveals that while employers are accustomed to implementing changes in the business to prevent physical injuries, they are less confident when it comes to managing mental health risks.

Too often our audits have identified pressures in companies organisational matrixes led by higher management that foster environments that adversely affect employees mental health. Often those at a managerial level are not aware that the way they communicate with their staff, or exert control over work scheduling and decision-making, can inhibit a mentally healthy workplace, Beath said.

Various organisational factors can adversely affect workplace wellness and wellbeing, with management decisions having a significant impact on employees. A study by the Global Wellness Institute revealed that workforce unwellness costs the global economy 15% of its economic output each year. Organisations that meet the ISO 45001 Standard are required to consider injury and ill health, which includes the physical, mental or cognitive health of their workforce.

According to SAI Global, employers should focus on improving wellness and wellbeing in their workplace for the following reasons:

Let the results speak for themselves healthier employees tend to work harder, are happier and are generally more willing to help others be more efficient, Beath said.

Image credit: stock.adobe.com/au/Syda Productions

Read more here:
Five reasons to prioritise employee wellness - Foodprocessing

We are planning to organize a family welfare program for the spouses and children of our employees as part of our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). It is being recommended to us by our consultant who claims that such a program is helpful in preventing unions from knocking at the door of our factory. Is he correct? Faulty Experiment.

A man went to visit a psychiatrist. He said: I have two problems. The eager psychiatrist inquired, Okay, please tell me about them. The man began: Well, I think I am a vending machine. The psychiatrist sat the man right down, looked into the ceiling, and started analyzing the mans case, but he could think of nothing to say.

Finally, exasperated, the doctor took a P50 bill out of his pocket, forced it down the mans throat, grabbed him by the head, and shook him till he swallowed the money. Triumphantly, the doctor said: Okay, give me a Diet Coke.

The man replied: I cant, Doc. Thats my second problem. Im out of order.

Thats the point. The recommendation of your consultant is out of order, to say the least. He needs a psychiatrist to determine the extent of his mental illness. Your consultants recommendation is one of those being used by incompetent people who would use underhanded tactics to undermine labor rights in the same manner that they continue to practice endo hiring.

The Family Welfare Program (FWP) is a legal mandate administered by the Bureau of Workers with Special Concerns (BWSC) of companies with at least 200 employees. The objective is to improve workplace productivity and labor-management relations, among other related issues. When implementing the FWP, private organizations must consider various dimensions:

These include reproductive health, responsible parenthood, early childhood education, gender equality, spirituality, value formation, livelihood, nutrition, health care, nutrition, environmental protection, hygiene and sanitation, sports and leisure, housing and transportation.

I tried to refresh my memory by visiting the online pages of the Department of Labor and Employments BWSC, but I was thwarted by a notice that its website is not a secure connection.

Anyway, I dont deny that at times, the sophisticated use of FWP may be misinterpreted by some people to be an effective deterrent against the formation of trade unions. After all, if the employees families are enamored with the many family-oriented programs of an organization, who would bother to rock the boat by forming a union?

Clearly, your management consultant has a malicious intent in prescribing FWP as a union deterrent. It may be considered a double-edge sword, except that he missed one important program that of establishing a Community Relations Program (CRP) in tandem with the FWP. These two programs can become a potent tool for harmonious and dynamic employee-employer relations, but not intended to thwart union formation, which is an inherent labor right.

Go ahead and implement FWP and CRP minus the intended purpose of your consultant. Instead, consult the labor department on how you can implement those twin programs through a reasonable and legal procedure. Take note that without FWP, your company can be cited by labor inspectors for violating labor standards.

In the meantime, I suggest that your management consider the following broad rules to ensure a sound working relations with the workers and their families.

One, be fair and treat all workers equally. Avoid favoritism even with your hardest-working people. Of course, there are some people who by nature are more likeable than others, but as part of the management team you have to avoid showing your bias by treating everyone with respect and dignity, even if it appears difficult. Management sincerity, especially if done consistently by likeable line managers, can disarm the most difficult people.

Two, be flexible in dealing with employee concerns. There could be many times that you are tempted to simply dismiss an issue by telling the complaining workers that a certain policy is covered by management prerogative. Dont even think about it. Instead of hiding under this legal protection, exercise care by patiently explaining why a certain policy must be done for the good of the majority and that of the organization.

Three, show concern for the employees and their families. Try to understand the problem from their perspective. This should help you deal with difficulties from an angle that could be used to reconcile them with management interest. If you treat people well, how can they betray your management? If youre being portrayed as an employee champion, how can they put up a hostile position against you?

Last, display a continuing interest in your subordinates families. This can only be done one-on-one by line supervisors and managers. Remember at least the name and birthday of the employees spouse. This is easy to do when you invite their spouses to the companys Christmas party, anniversary celebration, including events where model workers are recognized and rewarded for their milestones.

In conclusion, note that all of these can only be done with the proactive assistance of individual line executives. The CEO or any high-ranking executive cannot do this alone. As long as these executives present themselves as employee mentors, labor-management relations can go a long way, with or without a union.

After all, as a general rule, the employees right to organize and maintain a union also includes the right of every worker not to join a union.

ELBONOMICS: If you want to improve, you need to start with the basic rules.

Send anonymous workplace questions to elbonomics@gmail.com or via https://reyelbo.consulting

Read more:
Family welfare program as a union deterrent - BusinessWorld Online

I see health-focused trends rising and gimmicks falling, Phillips says. This list is such an insight into what role fitness plays for society. It's not just about looking good, staying slim, getting fit and gaining muscle, as once pigeonholed, but now is viewed as a much broader approach to health.

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"This year's trends indicate that we are looking to fitness to support mental health, community, connection, disease prevention and innovation.

The rise of wellness coaching, for example, which uses behavioural science and positive psychology to support physical and mental health, suggests a growing interest in how our mind and body work together, Phillips says.

EIM (exercise is medicine) is climbing too, along with exercise for older adults. These trends all have a strong health focus which is really encouraging to see.

Libby Babet, the founder of BUF Girls and former trainer on the Biggest Loser, is equally enthusiastic.

Usually when I look at the top 20 I do a bit of an eye-roll at a few fads or quick-fix trends, but this year everything in the top 20 is things I feel get real results, she says.

We're all a bit more clued in on health and fitness these days, society as a whole is more informed and more curious about what works.

I think this is because we're all a bit more clued in on health and fitness these days, society as a whole is more informed and more curious about what works.

The continued trend of wearable tech (it has been number one since 2016) reflects its continued innovation.

Wearable tech is just getting better and better, isn't it? Most devices aren't just clocking your energy spent or distance covered anymore, they're monitoring your health and wellbeing and really getting to know you and how your body is adapting. They've become a real guide, says Babet, who favours the Apple Watch.

Founder of Flow Athletic, Ben Lucas says a trend towards active transport is also driving the popularity of wearables.

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People are doing more incidental exercise today (walking, cycling) and they like to have a benchmark to hit, Lucas says. Also the element of gamification (movement streaks, competing against friends) keeps consumers engaged.

Despite the technology trend, mobile exercise apps are on the decline. Lucas attributes this to the lack of accountability and impetus they provide to exercise.

It is so easy to register, download, sign up but it will just sit there on your phone if you dont open it and take the time to commit to the program, he says. [Its] the same reason that people have exercise equipment at home that goes unused, they are not missing a means to exercise, they are looking for motivation to get it done.

People still value the face-to-face connection gained through social fitness as well as the desire to exercise in a different location.

In that way I dont ever believe that group exercise and personal training will ever completely go out of fashion. Having the accountability to someone else and the inspiration from a group setting will help you commit and get results.

Phillips agrees that the social aspect is crucial for many people.

People still value the face-to-face connection gained through social fitness as well as the desire to exercise in a different location (be it outdoors or the gym), she says. I am a big believer in combining fitness with fun and friends, so to see group fitness still in the top three makes me smile. Jane Fonda was really onto something wasn't she!?

Sarah Berry is a lifestyle and health writer at The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age.

Read the rest here:
The 'great joy' to be found in the 2020 fitness trends - The Age

The Senior Program at the Greater Maple Valley Community Center, located at 22010 SE 248th St. in Maple Valley, invites all adults ages 50+ to come and see what we are all about! Call us at 425-432-1272 with any questions or visit our website http://www.maplevalleycc.org for more information and our monthly calendar.

We would like to offer our sincere thanks to Covington Place Sr. Apts. for their continued support of our programs.

Trips, Groups, Special Events

Payment for all trips is due at time of registration. Cancellations are refunded if seats can be filled; a $5 non-refundable service fee will be applied. Trip costs include all Community Center and travel expenses.

Friday, December 20 Holiday Lunch Celebrate the season with friends at our annual Holiday Lunch. On this day, Bingo will run from 10-11a.m., followed by a vocal performance by the Honor Choir at Lake Wilderness Elementary, and a very special visit from Santa (with photos)! Lunch will be served at noon. Cost for lunch is a $4 suggested donation for those age 60 and over, and a $7 fee for anyone 59 and under. Please sign up in advance for this event so we know how many to expect.

Wednesday, December 25 CLOSED Wednesday, January 1 CLOSED

Tuesday, January 7 Senior Trip: Reptile Zoo The Reptile Zoo in Monroe provides a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with exotic reptiles from across the globe: including turtles, alligators, lizards and many types of snakes. You dont want to miss the turtle with two heads, the albino alligator, and the worlds deadliest snake the black mamba. Be prepared to have fun and enjoy quality time with these magnificent creatures! We will leave GMVCC at 9:15, and will have lunch together at the Maltby Caf after visiting the museum. Cost is $18, plus $8.95 admission at the door. You will also need to bring money for your lunch.

Tuesday, January 21 Senior Trip: Seattle Antiques Market and Dukes Seattle Antiques Market is one of the largest collectibles and antiques dealers in Washington! This 6,000 sq. ft. store is filled with thousands of treasures from the past. Youll discover a wide selection of antique furniture for the home, nautical antiques, collectible vinyl, vintage typewriters, vintage cameras, mid-century modern home decor, antique office furniture, vintage toys, and much, much more! We will leave GMVCC at 9:30a.m., shop for a while, then head to Dukes Chowder House for lunch. Cost is $15, plus money for shopping and lunch.

Senior Fitness

Mon/Wed/Fri at 9:00a.m. Walking Group Meeting in the GMVCC lobby MWF at 9:00am, we walk on the Lake Wilderness Trail as a group, rain or shine. Everyone walks at his or her own pace; covering approx. 3 miles round trip. This is a drop-in activity; no need to call ahead. There is a $1 suggested donation to support on-going GMVCC Health and Wellness programs.

Mons and Weds., at 9:00a.m. Aging-Well Yoga Instructor will help you gently increase strength, flexibility, posture and balance. Everyone will be working at their own pace. 4-class punch card is $30; 8-class punch card is $50; 12-class punch card is $70; drop-in rate is $10. No reservations are necessary; pay in class. This class is held in The Den. Call us with any questions.

Mons., Weds. and Fris. at 10:30 Fall-Prevention Exercise The Fall StopMove Strong exercise program was designed specifically to improve balance and strength. It is a series of 3 different 12-minute sessions. This is free and no sign-up is necessary. Please note: no exercise on party days.

Socials and Games

Time and availability might vary because of holidays and parties. Suggested donation of $1 in the activity donation box.

Mons. Bingo at 11:00; Pinochle at 12:30; Ping Pong 12:30

Weds. (2nd & 4th Weds.) Quilting & Sewing at 10:45 in the Den; Bingo at 11:00, Pinochle at 12:30

Fris. Bingo at 11:00, Painting at 1:00, Ping Pong 12:30, Pinochle and Mah Jong at 12:30

Fris. at 1:00 Painting

Calling all painters (all mediums) to come in to use our main hall to paint, socialize, and share ideas. Tables and space to spread out is available, however, there are no easels for use, and no instruction given.

Lunch Menus

Lunch served each Mon., Wed., Fri. at 12:00. For those age 60+ there is a suggested donation of $4. For all others, there is a $7 fee.

All menus are subject to availability of food items. Milk, coffee, and tea are available for all lunches.

Wed., Dec 18: Beef Stroganoff, Normandy vegetables, oranges, milk, birthday cake

Fri., Dec 20: Baked Ham, scalloped potatoes, green beans, bread pudding, warm pears, milk

Mon., Dec 23: Minestrone Soup, garden salad, bread stick, apple crisp, milk

Wed., Dec 25: CLOSED

Fri., Dec 27: Chicken Pot Pie, broccoli salad, peaches, roll, milk

Health and Wellness

Routine Pedicure/Footcare Karens Foot Care is offered to seniors on the 2nd & 4th Friday of each month and the 4th Thurs. Cost is $32. Please call GMVCC to make an appointment as this popular service fills quickly.

Blood Pressure Checks are offered on the 1st and 3rd Fridays between 10:30 and 11:00. This service depends on availability of MV Firefighters.

Services

Community Center Shuttle Need a ride in? Our shuttle runs M/W/F between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. and provides rides to GMVCC for programs and lunch. Shuttle rides are $1 each way within our transportation boundaries. Call 425-432-1272 for availability at least 24 hours in advance. $20 bus passes (good for 20 rides) are available.

Volunteer Transportation Need a ride to a medical appointment? Call Janet at 425-432-1272 at least one week in advance to arrange a free volunteer-provided ride. This Volunteer Program is now in great need of drivers. If you think you would like to help seniors get to medical appointments, please call the above number to become a volunteer.

Meals on Wheels (by application only). Applications must be obtained from and submitted to Sound Generations (call 206-448-5767 or mealsonwheels@soundgenerations.org and http://www.soundgenerations.org). A new, expanded menu is now available.

Free Pet Food In partnership with the Seattle Humane Society, the Greater Maple Valley Community Center offers free pet food for qualifying low-income seniors.

Medical Lending Closet Free walking aids & bathroom equipment are available from our lending closet free of charge(call for current items). We also welcome donations of these items!

Cell Phone Drop Off Drop off your old cell phones here to be distributed to US military as well as people in general disaster areas. This is part of the Phones for Soldiers Program. More information can be found at: http://www.cellphonesforsoldiers.com

Eye Glass Drop Off Drop off old prescription glasses here for the Lions Club to refurbish and redistribute to those who need them.

Computer Assistance Volunteer Curtis Patterson specializes in working with senior citizens and provides free, caring, patient, one-on-one computer assistance including repairs, upgrades, diagnostics, tutoring, virus/spyware cleaning, and more. PC and Android are his specialty, but Curtis is willing attempt to help with Apple products as well. Call us at 425-432-1272 to arrange and appointment. Age requirement is 50+.

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Maple Valley Senior News Updated 12-17-19 - Voice of the Valley

Here in the valley of the sun, many people are already retired. But what do you explain to someone who is not sure whether or not they are ready to retire? Of course, one of the most important factors is of the financial nature. Questions begin to arise. Will you receive a pension? If so, will it include a COLA (cost of living adjustment)? How much will your social security be? Income becomes very important when a person is ready to retire.

Inflation is the silent eater of a persons money as time goes by. Even at 3-4%, if your income remains stable, inflation will slowly erode your purchasing power. As you know, prices on most goods and services go up, not down. So, remember to know in advance what your approximate income will be before you actually retire from your job.

If you were able to save money, either through work sponsored programs such as a 401k or thrift savings plans, or individually through IRAs or Roth IRAs, you are ahead of the pack. Saving money and having it grow through solid investments and having time for it to grow is very important. So, make sure that while you may be eying retirement in a few years, saving your hard earned money is very important.

We work hard all of our adult lives to save money and try to live a comfortable lifestyle and, consequently, accumulation of money is important, but when you retire, distribution becomes more important. Having money that will provide current income and not running out of it becomes more vital. One big fear of people who retire is outliving their money.

Another important factor when deciding when too retire is debt. If you have a mortgage or outstanding loans, will they be paid off before you retire? Having large amounts of debt can really cripple someone mentally. Many divorces are directly related to debt and money issues.

So, now you have a comfortable number and are ready to officially call it quits. The next major question is, what are you going to do? Here is where it is very important to have a plan. Through my thirty years in the financial field, I have seen people who cant wait to retire and have wonderful plans to travel and do interesting things. I have also seen the other side, where people are forced into retirement due to health reasons or various other issues. Being able to retire on your terms is certainly, without question, the best. Planning is crucial to having and enjoying a successful retirement.

As we age, it is important to interact with younger people to some degree. This may consist of being involved with the grandchildren or friends. Planning is really as simple as answering the questions, What kind of life do you want to live? Where do you want to live? What is it you always wanted to do, but never had the time? Remember: retirement is supposed to be our golden years. This is the time for you to go or do anything your heart desires.

All of this may sound wonderful, except one thing: health. The old saying, If you have your health, you have everything, is so true as we age. Begin, if you have not already, starting an exercise program of some kind. It may be as simple as just taking a long walk every morning. The key is to be consistent. Taking care of yourself and your money are just a couple of important parts of any successful retirement.

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Money Matters: Many Factors in Deciding to Retire - Apache Junction News

By JANA ALEXANDER HILLPublished December 18, 2019Monroe Y teen room gives a warm place to chill after school

Jim Scolman photo Tori Whetzel, 14, left, works on a new hairdo for a friend, 13-year-old Dannika Chandler, as other YMCA teens enjoy a game of foosball on a visit to the Monroe Ys Teen Room on Friday, Dec. 13.

MONROE The Teen Room at the YMCA is an afterschool hub, for friends to talk, or even dance it out.Its a good, safe place for them to be, said Mani Fergoso, teen coordinator at the Monroe Y.He said his program is busiest on Fridays with about 30 kids, and Monday through Thursday he gets about half that. Activities are open-ended and include socializing, video gaming, foosball and board games. Fergoso said some teens use the group-exercise rooms to blast the music and dance away afterschool stress.In the past, Fergoso structured the time afterschool in a program called Seventh Period that had homework-time required. Now, homework help is optional. Nat, a teen who wanted to give her first name only, said she has been attending for two years. Its a fun place that I can hang out with my friends, she said.Shelves hold board games, including Scrabble, Risk, Cranium and Boggle. Some kids just like to socialize, while others take a seat along the wall, and tap away on cell phones. On a Monday afternoon, about half of the kids were around a table talking and eating a snack.In Generation Z style, they are attuned to surroundings while engaging with their cell phone. Middle schoolers saunter in at about 2:30 p.m., grab a snack and find one of six seats around the table. Fergoso said they used to sell snacks, but some kids didnt have the pocket-change, so he reshaped the program to be more inclusive. Now the Sky Valley Food Bank donates snacks.Seventh grader Garrett Brindamor, 12, has been going to the teen room for two years. I like it because a bunch of my friends came here and they have games and stuff. He said if he wasnt at the teen room, hed probably just sleep after school.Eighth grader Dannika Chandler, 13, has been going for three years. She has seen the changes in how different teen coordinators operate the program. Its fun to have peoples perspective and how they run the program. She recalls a circle time with one teen coordinator, and likes the freedom of Fergosos programming.The snacks and the dining-room style experience create a family atmosphere.Fergoso has deep roots in the community and said he draws in new participants by visiting the schools. He has a relationship with teachers and counselors, so he is able to get permission to attend lunches. Thats one of the biggest ways I reach out to kids, he said.The Y offers a $20-per-month youth membership for teens under the age of 18, and a $17-per-year option for kids who are on free and reduced lunch programs, which indicates that their household lives near or below the poverty line. The front desk has information for teens who want to try it out and see if its something they enjoy.More kids filter in as the clock turns to 2:45 p.m. They arrive on shuttles that run between the schools and the Y. The transportation is a co-agreement between the nonprofit and the schools.Its a good group of kids, Fergoso said.Part of what the Y brought into Fergosos life is something he passes on to the teens. (The YMCA) taught me that higher education is possible, he said. He is now halfway through his associates degree and on the way to a career in helping people, either in general psychology or social work.This is the work that I enjoy, he said.For more information on the Monroe YMCA Teen Room, call 360-805-1879 or visit the Y at 14033 Fryelands Boulevard.

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Monroe Y teen room gives a warm place to chill after school - Snohomish County Tribune

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