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

Happy Holidays from the BACWe hope you are keeping in good health throughout this busy holiday season. Don’t forget to schedule some club time for de-stressing through a good workout, massage or spa relaxation. Enjoy!

Gift Cards: Give the gift of choice this year, from Pro Shop gear to a personal training session? Stop by for a gift card in any amount. Plus, FREE card promotion has been extended.

BAC Bucks: Here’s our gift to you: BAC Bucks loyalty points accumulate for most of the purchases you make at the club. Check out your account balance on the members-only pages. Access the website from bronsonathleticclub.com by clicking on the “Member Login” button. On the Member Central tab, click “Statements” then “Credit Book.”

Be Kind: Now that the club is busier, please be respectful and share the limited space and equipment with all of the members. This is especially important during high-volume times in the early evening hours. As a courtesy, please observe a limit of 30 minutes on the gym floor while others are waiting. •Start New Year with 21-Day Primal Transformation Are you searching for some solid guidance to kick-start your 2015 goals to eat better, look better and feel better? Our simple, 21-Day Primal Transformation principles can be the answer. The program is based on the The Primal Blueprint 21-Day Total Body Transformation devised by fitness expert and author Mark Sisson, publisher of MarksDailyApple.com.

The nutritional advice focuses on elements of the primal/paleo style of eating, plus an exercise component emphasizing primal movement and strength training. A blood chemistry profile will chart several health benchmarks at the start and end of the program. Fitness Manager Steve Lewis, a longtime proponent of this transformative lifestyle, will share knowledge using the Primal Blueprint guidelines. Come build a better body with us! (See page 3 for details) •Don’t Forget: Great Cover-Up is Coming Next MonthIn response to many feedBAC comments and member concerns, the BAC is changing its modesty policy in the locker rooms. Effective Jan. 1, 2015, please note that you must cover-up in the locker room while grooming or relaxing. The new policy states: Nudity will not be allowed in the whirlpools, steam rooms and saunas. Swimsuits must be worn in the whirlpools; no towels are allowed in the whirlpools due to residual soap and fiber damage to the jets. Swimsuits or towels must be worn in the steam rooms and saunas, when walking around or grooming in the locker rooms, or relaxing in the lounges. •6789 Elm Valley Drive, Kalamazoo, MI 49009 • (269) 544-3200 • bronsonathleticclub.com

2014 Holiday Hours

BAC Briefs

Free Stocking StuffersWith every Pro Shop purchase of $50 or more, you will receive

a FREE gift through 12/31

* * *Pro Shop Swimwear Sale

HELD OVER

20% off all suits

Suit up for the Great Cover-Up!

* * *All That and a

BAG of CHIPSBuy any whole sandwich at the Deli in December and receive a

FREE bag of your choice of chips.

Christmas EveWednesday, Dec. 24

7 a.m.–1 p.m.Youth Center open 8:30 a.m.–noon

Deli open 7 a.m.–noon

Christmas DayThursday, Dec. 25BAC CLOSEDNew Year’s Eve

Wednesday, Dec. 317 a.m.–3 p.m.

Youth Center open 8:30 a.m.–noonDeli open 7 a.m.–1 p.m.

New Year’s DayThursday, Jan. 17 a.m.–3 p.m.

Youth Center closedDeli open 7 a.m.–1 p.m.

VOLUME 14 • NUMBER 12 • DECEMBER 2014

Erin Leversee, InstructorLongtime group exercise class members will recognize instructor Erin Leversee from her many classes both on land (Studio 1) and in the water over the last ten years. She currently

subs for Tabata Bootcamp,® Total Body Conditioning and Noon Water Exercise,

in addition to prenatal water classes. “Fitness instruction is a passion of mine,” she says. “I appreciate that the BAC provides me the opportunity to

fulfill this passion/hobby! I’m very much a group exerciser at heart, and love the

motivation that comes from working out with others. I gain a lot of personal satisfaction from helping others achieve a goal.”

Erin’s busy life includes family (husband Ron and three kids) and work with Pfizer as a project manager supporting the Portage Road manufacturing plant. “I am grateful to work part-time, which allows me a better work/life balance, and provides me the flexibility to teach fitness at the BAC,” she says. “As my family has grown, my time has become more limited. But I value maintaining my certifications so that I can continue to teach whenever possible. I am happy to help a fellow instructor and provide our members an enjoyable, meaningful workout—with variety to their usual routine.” •

Erin Leversee

Transplant Gives Scott LeveneNew Lease on LifeBy Scott Levene

If someone told me I would ever be asked to become the Member of the Month of a health club, especially one as comprehensive as BAC, I would have either laughed or passed out cold! I was never athletic. As my daughter excelled from age four to become an elite gymnast by age 16, I dreamed of the day I could complete a somersault. My problem was not laziness, but medical. I was born with a ventricular septal defect (VSD), a hole in the center wall of the heart. At eight months, I had surgery to correct this—and in 1957 that was cutting edge surgery. But at age 13, I passed out in school. Back to Mayo Clinic with my mom and dad, where a misplaced suture was discovered. I became pacemaker dependent for the next 44 years (including more than 10 replacements) and had two other open-heart surgeries.

My original heart had had enough in mid-2013. Back to Mayo again. It was confirmed I suffered from congestive heart failure, and the cure was a heart transplant with a kidney transplant for good measure. After two months of testing, I received an A1 ranking (top of the list) on the National Registry for Organ Recipients. A week and a half later, they had a 23-year-old’s heart and kidney for me. On January 4th of this year, a 14-hour surgery gave me a new lease on life. After the surgery, it was another three months in intensive care and cardiac floor admittance. I was in the hospital close to five months.

Life before the heart transplant was not too extraordinary. The huge downside was a constant heart rate—regardless of increased physical demand for oxygen from exertion, like riding a bike. Until dual sensing/pacing was invented in the late 70s, I had a fixed heart rate of 70. All this made exercise difficult, which caused a higher than normal weight. I did find swimming was something I could do, so I swam a half to full mile five days a week. After I joined Bronson Athletic Club, my weight dropped from a lifetime high of 291 to 190, and since the heart transplant, I stay at a fit 155 to 165 range.

I owe much thanks to the staff of the BAC and Cardiac Rehab for the encouragement, support and friendship they give me every time I work out. This averages five times per week. I also give special thanks to my loving wife, Robyn, whose love, support and encouragement have been truly inspiring. •

Trainer Touts Benefits of Strength Training for Menopause SymptomsBy Lynn Madsen, BAC Personal Trainer

If you are a 40-plus-year-old lady, this month’s article is for you! There is much research showing that many of the unpleasant symptoms of menopause (hot flashes, sleeplessness and weight gain) may be less severe if exercise is a consistent part of your lifestyle.

Muscle burns more calories than fat. As we age, we lose muscle mass. Unfortunately, women are at a disadvantage in that we have less muscle than men to begin with. When there is less muscle on your frame, not only does strength decrease and opportunity for injury increase, but metabolism goes down. Without doing some strength training, it may become more challenging to lose (or even maintain) weight. Additionally, estrogen levels decrease during menopause. Among other things, estrogen is a key hormone for keeping bones strong. Lifting weights strengthen joints and bones so

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D E C E M B E R M V P M E M B E R P R O F I L E

Scott Levene

Primal Primer

Fitness Manager Steve Lewis will explain how a primal/paleo style of eating can be beneficial to your health and fitness goals. This program is not an official component of the 21-Day Primal Transformation, but it will outline some of the nutritional tenets.

when Wednesdays / Jan. 14, 6:30 p.m. / Jan. 21, 6 p.m. cost No charge for all

21-Day Primal Transformation

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: Monday, Jan. 12 / Wednesday, Jan. 14, 6 p.m.

Personal Assessments: Monday-Friday, Jan. 19–23

Small Group Training: Days/Times TBA, Jan. 26–Feb. 13

cost Member $165 / Nonmember $195

Holiday Hustle

If you see a few extra pounds creep up this season, here’s a chance to kick-start your 2015 fitness goals. Our personal trainers have formulated an intense, five-day workout to rev up your metabolism after the holidays.

when Monday–Friday, Jan. 12–16, 9–10 a.m. or 5–6 p.m. cost Member $50 / Nonmember $75

Lady Lifters

Beginning strength training for women, including basic movements, form and posturing. Great for those who want a refresher on form. Instructor is Sarah Onderlinde.

when Mondays, Jan. 19–Feb. 23, 9–10 a.m. Tuesdays, Jan. 20–Feb. 24, 5:15–6:15 p.m. cost Member $130 / Nonmember $170

Kettlebell FIT (Plus Intro Course)

Jingle (Kettle) Bells, Jingle (Kettle) Bells. Oh, what fun it is to swing a kettleball today! Prior to attending the Kettlebell FIT class, you must have a basic level of kettlebell experience or take the intro course.

when Tuesdays, through Dec. 16 / Jan. 6–Feb. 10, 12:15 & 6 p.m. Thursdays, through Dec. 18 / Jan. 8–Feb. 12, 12:15 & 6 p.m. Saturdays, through Dec. 20 / Jan. 10–Feb. 14, 9 a.m.Intro course: Tuesdays, Dec. 2 / Jan. 6, noon and 5 p.m. Thursdays, Dec. 4 / Jan. 8, 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. No charge, but members must sign up in advance for each week’s sessions; choose from two time slots.

when Sundays, through May 17, 2015, 7:10–8 a.m. / 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, Jan. 5–Feb. 19 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, Jan. 6–Feb. 21 cost Member $65 / Nonmember $80

BAC Dolphins Swim Teams / Pre-Swim Team

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

when Jan. 6–Feb. 19 (see flier online or at club for cost)

Pregnancy Group Exercise

when Water: Tuesdays, Jan. 6–Feb. 10, 7–7:50 p.m. Yoga: Thursdays, Jan. 8–Feb. 12, 5:30–6:30 p.m. cost Member $40 / Nonmember $60

Tai Chi

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

when Thursdays, Jan. 8–Feb. 12, 6:30–8 p.m. cost Member $20 / Nonmember $60

DECEMBER 2014–JANUARY 2015 DATES FOR ALL EVENTS SUBJECT TO CHANGE DUE TO PARTICIPATION

PROGRAMS / CLASSES CALL (269) 544-3200 TO REGISTER

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

NEW

GROUP-X / PROGRAMS shons@bronsonhg.org

NEW

that the risk of fractures stays lower. Lastly, insomnia is another undesirable side effect of menopause. Physical activity (especially earlier in the day) results in an endorphin “buzz” to give you the pep that is desirable during the day, yet will wear off by nighttime. This may result in a better night’s rest.

Exercise and Menopause (continued from previous page)

Beginner Ballet Barre

An introduction to classical ballet for adults. No formal training is necessary, but instructor will accommodate all levels of dancers. Learn techniques to lengthen, straighten and stretch your body.

when Fridays, Jan. 9–Feb. 13, 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 Saturday, Jan. 31, 1–3:30 p.m. cost Member no charge / Nonmember $30

Youth Ballet

Dance fun for the little ones. when Mondays, Jan. 5–Feb. 9 Baby Ballet, 4:45–5:15 p.m. (ages 2–3)

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

Saturdays through Jan. 10–Feb. 14 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

Junior Racquetball Group Lessons

Have fun in this introduction to racquetball.

when Fridays, Jan 9–Feb. 13 6–6:45 p.m. (ages 8–9) / 7–7:45 p.m. (ages 10–12)

cost Member $75 / Nonmember $90

BAC Twirlers

Learn to twirl with instructor Kyle Keiser.

when Tuesdays, Jan. 13–Feb. 16 Ages 18 months–2 years, 9:30–10 a.m. / Ages 3–5, 10:15–10:45 a.m. / Ages 6–11, 6:45–7:30 p.m. / Ages 12+,7:45–8:30 p.m. cost Member $40 / Nonmember $55

Hip Hop/Funk

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

when Jan. 9–Feb. 13, 6–6:45 p.m. cost Member $75 / Nonmember $95

Move, Tumble, Dance and Play

A fun fusion of ballet and tumbling, this new class is designed to get the little ones moving in a unique way—and to keep their focus on learning new skills. For ages 3–5.

when Fridays, through Dec. 19 / Jan. 9–Feb. 13, 5:15–5:45 p.m. cost Member $40 / Nonmember $55

Couples Ballroom Dance Lessons

Come dancing with the BAC stars in a beginner ballroom dance class. You must register as a couple, or call Lindsey Ralya to be assigned to a partner.

when Sundays, Jan. 18–Feb. 22, 5–6 p.m. cost Member $40 / Nonmember $55 per person

Country Line Dance Lessons

Get ready to do a little boot scootin’! Enjoy some great exercise, and have a good deal of fun at the same time.

when Sundays, Jan. 18–Feb. 22, 6–7 p.m. cost Member $30 / Nonmember $45 per person

Winter Paddleball League

Standard doubles. Register by Dec. 30. when Wednesdays, Jan. 7–April 15, 6 or 7:30 p.m. cost Member $50 / Nonmember $75

Paddleball Tournament

The BAC is hosting the National Paddleball Association 2015 Midwest Singles Paddleball Tournament. For more information and to register, visit: http://npa.paddleball.org.

when Friday–Sunday, Jan. 16–18

Winter Racquetball League

Players schedule their own matches. Register by Jan. 14.

when Jan. 21–April 10 cost Member $50 / Nonmember $75

Racquetball Tournament

The BAC is hosting the annual Southwest Shoot Out Racquetball Tournament. Tourney contact is Richard Westerbrink, rwesterbrink@riverside-is.com. Register:http://www.r2sports.com/tourney/home.asp?TID=13235

when Saturday, Jan. 24

Holiday Blood Drive at the BAC

Special holiday collection day! Donations go down, yet the needs remain critical this time of year. You may drop in or make an appointment at https://donate.miblood.org/Portal/Default.aspx (type Bronson Athletic Club in location).

when Monday, Dec. 29, 2–6 p.m.

PROGRAMS / CLASSES DECEMBER 2014–JANUARY 2015

Follow us: facebook.com/ bronsonathleticclub.com

OTHER EVENTS BAC/Bronson hosted or sponsored

JUST FOR KIDS ralyal@bronsonhg.org

PROGRAMS / RECREATION ralyal@bronsonhg.org