Lincoln Park News
February’s Message from General Manager Bob Dowdy January 27, 2012
This month is all about the color RED. Did you know that February is American Heart Health Month? Even though it may not always be our primary goal; a healthy heart can be a great side effect of all of those hours on a treadmill or struggling through one of our group exercise classes. I see those red faces as you make your way down the stairs!
Friday, February 3 is the American Heart Association’s National Wear Red Day. I encourage everyone to show their awareness by working out in red on that day. Eating red is another way that we can improve our overall health. While many studies have recommended cutting back on consumption of red meat, there are lots of ‘red’ foods that health and nutrition experts say will protect our hearts. A recent study from the University of Michigan revealed that cherry-enriched diets in animals lowered total blood cholesterol levels and reduced triglycerides (fatty acids), major risk factors for heart disease. Americans are being encouraged to discover the power of eating heart-healthy red foods during the first-ever National Eat Red Week, February 4 -10.
That brings us to the most important RED event of all – VALENTINE’S DAY! First of all, forgetting Valentine’s Day could be very detrimental to your health. However, affection between partners, parents and children, or even close friends can increase levels of the hormone Oxytocin. Oxytocin makes us feel good when we’re close to family and other loved ones, including pets. Oxytocin does more than make us feel good. It lowers the levels of stress hormones in the body, reducing blood pressure, and improving mood. We will be hosting our first Parent’s Night Out event on Friday, February 10 for parents that would like a well-deserved date night. Please see Customer Service Manager Stephanie Hagemann for more information. Also, check out our special, complimentary “My Sweaty Valentine” partner Yoga classes on Monday, February 13 and Tuesday, February 14.
I hope this letter finds everyone in good health and well on your way to your fitness goals. Remember, Spring is just around the corner!
Searching for a Valentine’s Gift? Look No Further! January 27, 2012
Whether your sweetie wants to start Personal Training, would enjoy a 90 minute therapeutic, specialized massage or might like to browse our Shop apparel – an FFC Gift Card suits any valentine, perfectly! Purchase online, at any FFC location, or call 312-344-FIT1 (3481).
In This Month’s Connections . . . January 27, 2012
February is full of inspirational stories on our blog. This month, read FFC Gold Coast member Gunter Nitsch’s reflections on turning 74 and staying fit; Lisa Payne is asking if you are the marathon or triathlon type; and, we have two more good-for-you recipes from our registered dietitian, Jennifer Ventrelle!
Communication is Key! January 27, 2012
Wish you could get updates from FFC real-time? Want to know when a group fitness class is cancelled? Or if the power goes out at the Club? Then opt-in to our texting communication program! Click here to fill out this simple form today!
February Spa Special January 27, 2012
>Buy a Performance Massage Package or a Skin Fitness Package, Get a $25 FFC Gift Certificate*! Massage Therapy helps aid in your fitness recovery process, relaxes stiff muscles, relieves stress, assists in rehabbing injuries and improves your overall well being. These performance packages are designed to get you in and out, while giving you the relief and recovery you need to do it all again tomorrow! Performance Packs – 30-minute massages: 3 pack: $135, 6 pack: $259, 12 pack: $479. Performance Plus Packages – 60-minute massages: 3 pack: $199, 6 pack: $379, 12 pack: $729. Skin Fitness Facials diminish fine lines and wrinkles, reduce puffiness, redness/discoloration and breakouts, plus they help correct skin imbalances. These packages are designed to keep your skin glowing and healthier, all the time! 3 Essential Facials: $199, 6 Essential Facials: $379, 6 Essential Facials and 6 Brow Waxes: $429. Book online today at ffc.com/spa! *Standard gift certificate restrictions apply. Gift certificate may not be applied to purchase of Performance Packages. These packages are discounted from our standard pricing and are to be used within a 6 month period.
It’s Time for a New You! January 27, 2012
The New You! Program has been FFC’s signature behavioral change and weight loss program for over 17 years. If you struggle with losing weight, unhealthy eating habits, or seek a group of friends striving for the same goals, come to one of our upcoming information meetings and learn how we will transform you into the New You! Information Meeting will be Wednesday, February 8 at 6:30pm. Program begins Monday, February 13. 12 week program is $499/members. Program includes the ActivTrax Nutrition Tracking System, FA20 Polar Activity Computer, 24 Small Group Training Sessions, two lectures – grocery tour and dining out, and three evaluations. Register online, or contact Kim Fine at kfine@ffc.com for more information.
Come See What Our Trainers Can Do! January 27, 2012
Trainer Showcase on Thursday, February 9 at 6:00pm. Complimentary. Join us on the Fitness Floor as the Personal Trainers showcase their skills. Demonstrations* include:
• Kettlebell
• TRX® Suspension Training
• Circuit Training
• Interval Training
• Battling Ropes
• Medicine Ball
• And More!
Feel free to ask questions and discover new exercises to fit your workout routine. For more information, please contact Mike Leve at mleve@ffc.com.
*Demos depend upon trainers’ availability and skill sets.
Parents Night Out January 27, 2012
Friday, February 10, 6:00pm-8:45pm. Cost: 1 child $20, 2 children $30, and $5 each additional child. Non-members pay $5 more per child. FFC members receive 10% off when you bring a non-member. Drop off children between 5:45pm and 6:00pm. Pick up by 8:45pm. Ages 13 and under. Register by 9pm on Tuesday before event. Take advantage of the FFC Kid’s Club with a night out on the town and we’ll entertain the kids with food, activities, and a great time! Hurry – space is limited, so register soon. Full payment with registration may be completed at the front desk. For more information or to register, contact Stephanie Hagemann at shagemann@ffc.com.
My Sweaty Valentine – Partner Yoga! January 27, 2012
Monday, February 13 at 9:30am and 6:30pm. Tuesday, February 14 at 12:15pm and 6:45pm. This class will replace all regularly scheduled Yoga classes these days only. Complimentary. Calling all husbands and wives, boyfriends and girlfriends, mothers and daughters, workout buddies – whatever the combination! Get in a workout with someone you like this Valentine’s Day! Partner Yoga will help you on your quest for physical, spiritual and emotional growth. Practicing with a partner can build strength, increase flexibility, and deepen your relationship! All levels welcome – prior yoga experience helpful but not necessary. This class will be a lot of fun – so be sure to bring your sense of humor! For more information, contact Dominick DeFranco at ddefranco@ffc.com.
Do You Struggle with Back Pain? January 27, 2012
Complimentary Workshop: Pilates for Bad Backs. Wednesday, February 15 from 6:00pm – 7:00pm. Learn how Pilates can help you improve your back pain and postural problems in this complimentary workshop. Don’t take it from us, here’s what Kelley Gambera, FFC Lincoln Park member, had to say: “I’m so glad I made the decision to train with Pilates. After living in pain for five years, I now have ZERO back pain! Now, I’m doing all the things I never felt good enough to do and I am Pilates-obsessed!” For more information, contact Ivana Zekovic at izekovic@ffc.com.
