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January 8, 2009

Simmons Center to offer annual Fitness Check program

John Walker

DUNCAN — For many people, health, fitness and weight loss dominate the lists of new year’s resolutions.

Whether it’s losing 20 pounds or finding a more tone physique, achieving such a goal takes hard work, determination and an exercise regimen.

To help people keep in line with these resolutions, the Simmons Center will have its annual Fitness Check program from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday. The Simmons Center is teaming up with Duncan Regional Hospital to provide health screenings for the community.

Vickie Suffal, program manager for the Simmons Center, said, “It’s a pretty good way for a fitness facility, like us, to kick off the new year. We have a pretty steady flow of traffic.”

DRH staff members will be available to conduct the health screenings. These test will check blood sugar, grip strength, blood pressure, and body mass index and body fat.

In addition to these health stations, other booths will be set up to get people thinking about healthier lifestyles. One of the topics that will be discussed is aspirin therapy.

Carol Wanzor and other members of the Stephens County’s health group, which is an offshoot of Dream Duncan’s Destiny, will be teaching about aspirin therapy.

Wanzor said the program will provide information on how use of aspirin can reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.

She will be joined by several doctors from the area and from around the state. These doctors will talk about aspirin as a preventive measure people can take in their routines.

While the health stations might be a big part of the program, Fitness Check isn’t only about tests and preventive measures. It’s about getting in shape.

As a way to get people where they’ll join the gym to stick with their resolutions, the Simmons Center will waive its joiner fee from Saturday until Jan. 18.

Suffal said the program usually pulls in a lot of people because it does encourage people to pursue healthier lifestyles.

“We’ve had more than 200 (people) join because of the fitness program,” she said.

From 10 a.m. to noon, people will get a chance to participate in the mini aereobathon. The program will feature numerous activities and classes offered at the Simmons Center.

If someone completes the two-hour challenge, they will win a T-shirt.

Suffal said she is ready for the Fitness Check because it is a way to find people who are ready for a change in their lives.

“It’s exciting,” she said. “It’s a good thing.”

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