From: Sun City Texas Community Association
Date/Time: 12/8/2019 9:00 am
Subject: Fitness Communicator - Weekly News - Dec. 8, 2019


Fitness Communicator
December 8, 2019
TD Lap Pool
Reopens Dec. 9
 
The TD Lap Pool will open on Monday, Dec. 9!
 
We appreciate your patience with this entire process.
Outdoor Pools
Heaters
 
The outdoor pool heaters will be turned off on Monday, Dec. 9. Outdoor pools are always open, but might be just a little chilly once the heaters are turned off.
December Class Changes
 
Texas Drive
  • Marilyn will teach the 9:15 Aqua Fitness class on Saturday.
Meet Joy Vera
 
I have been practicing yoga since 2001 & began teaching in 2008 right here in Sun City. Now yoga is so much a part of my life that it’s difficult to imagine LBY – life before yoga. I am registered with Yoga Alliance as an E-RYT 200, RYT 500. Translation: I have taught more than 1,000 hours of classes and have graduated from a teacher training program that took 500 hours to complete. Currently, my teaching hours exceed 1,400 & I am just shy of 600 training hours. You could say I am a perpetual student. 
 
My own yoga practice has helped me with managing caregiver stress & health issues. Having an older body of my own provides me with some insight on the conditions that students often bring with them to class. Much of my training has focused on how yoga can help us enjoy life & better health as we age. 
 
I have lived in the Denver area, Albuquerque & El Paso as well as other cities in Texas. My husband of 44 years & I enjoy going to movies & exploring what Central Texas has to offer.  
December Series Classes
 Registration began Thursday, Nov. 7,
at the Cowan Creek, Retreat or the Texas Drive Fitness Centers.
* Only pre-registered participants may attend these classes.
Questions about a series class? 
Email [email protected] or call 512-948-7753.
Active Yoga for Seniors
Thursdays, 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. • Cowan Creek
3 classes for $22.50, December 5 - 19
This yoga class teaches in three levels for each class (beginner, intermediate & advanced). Student must have the ability to get up and down off of the yoga mat. Ki will incorporate teachings on yoga postures, yoga sutras, balancing chakras and practical Ayurvedic methods for staying balanced in the busy world. A guided meditation will close each class. Taught by Ellen.
 
Ballet I
Fridays, 8:00 – 9:00 a.m. • Cowan Creek
3 classes for $12, December 6 - 20
Ballet I is a class geared towards those with a more intense ballet background and knowledge of dance vocabulary. This class includes both barre and center floor work. If this description fits you, we would love to have you come enjoy our fun ballet class. If you haven't had a ballet class since you were 6 year old... come dance with Marnie on Thursdays 9:00 Beginner Ballet. Taught by Marnie.
 
Beginner Cycling
Mondays and Wednesdays, 3:30 – 4:00 p.m. • Cowan Creek
6 classes for $19.50, December 2 - 18
Please come 10 minutes early to the first class to be set up on the bike!
These classes are recommended and designed for those who are new to indoor cycling. This class will familiarize new riders on how to properly set up their bikes, spinning techniques and terms, and how to monitor exercise intensity. Taught by Cara.
 
Beginner Pilates for Men – SOLD OUT
Mondays and Wednesdays, 10:15 – 11:00 a.m. • Cowan Creek in the Salado Room
8 classes for $26, December 2 – 30 (No class Christmas day)
This introductory class is for absolute beginners as well as for those who would like to go back to the basics. Strengthen core muscles and improve flexibility, balance, and posture by learning the Pilates method of exercise. Must have the ability to get down and up from the floor. Taught by Nancy and John.
 
Beginner Pilates – Tuesdays – SOLD OUT
Tuesdays, 9:00 – 9:45 a.m. • Cowan Creek in the Salado Room
 5 classes for $16.25, December 3 - 31
This introductory class is for absolute beginners as well as for those who would like to go back to the basics. Strengthen core muscles and improve flexibility, balance, and posture by learning the Pilates method of exercise. Must have the ability to get down and up from the floor. Taught by Nancy.
 
Beginner Pilates – Saturdays
Saturdays, 8:15 – 9:00 a.m. • Texas Drive
4 classes for $13, December 7 - 28
This introductory class is for absolute beginners as well as for those who would like to go back to the basics. Strengthen core muscles and improve flexibility, balance, and posture by learning the Pilates method of exercise. Must have the ability to get down and up from the floor. Taught by Nancy.
 
Chair Yoga – Tuesdays
1:15 – 2:15 p.m. • Cowan Creek in the Salado Room
5 classes for $37.50, December 3 - 31
Modified yoga poses with a focus on alignment and breath. Perfect for those who want to develop balance, strength and flexibility without getting on and off the floor. Those with Parkinson’s, tremors, other motor skill difficulties or stroke survivors are encouraged to join. Taught by Jen.
 
Chair Yoga - Thursdays
12:15 – 1:15 p.m. • Cowan Creek in the Salado Room
3 classes for $22.50, December 5 - 19
Modified yoga poses with a focus on alignment and breath. Perfect for those who want to develop balance, strength and flexibility without getting on and off the floor. Those with Parkinson’s, tremors, other motor skill difficulties or stroke survivors are encouraged to join. Taught by Jen.
 
Introduction to Yoga
Mondays and Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. • Cowan Creek in the Salado Room
8 classes for $26, December 2 – 30 (No class Christmas day)
This beginning yoga class is for students who have never taken yoga before. Focusing on flexibility, strength, and balance, the student will learn the basics of yoga philosophy, breathing, the basic yoga poses, and simple meditation techniques. Each class will begin with a calming, breathing exercise followed by gentle stretches to warm the body. Then the student will learn basic poses and connect the breath with the poses to experience a moving meditation… Must be able to get up and down off the mat independently, be on hands and knees for several minutes. Taught by Ellen.
 
Meditation for Beginners
Wednesdays, 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. • Cowan Creek in the Salado Room
3 classes for $22.50, December 4 - 18
Discover how to quiet your mind chatter. Learn relaxation techniques that can dissolve anxiety, improve inner peace and effectively transform your outlook. Meditation has proven benefits in reducing symptoms of every disease as well as restoring upliftment. If you feel like something is missing in your life, I would assert it’s the deep inner peace that is found from meditation. Taught by Jen.
 
Yoga Nidra
Monday, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. • Texas Drive
$3, December 16
Relax and feel great-“It’s not that kind of Yoga”. Yoga Nidra is the state of consciousness between waking and sleeping known to relieve stress and anxiety as well as aiding with sleep issues, increased energy levels, and overall well-being. We have all the items you need for class. However, bring your yoga mat, blanket, pillows, eye mask- whatever you need to feel comfortable lying on the floor and experience deep relaxation. You may bring a camp chair if you are not able to get up and down from the floor. For all levels. Taught by Barb.
January Series Classes
 Registration began Saturday, Dec. 7,
at the Cowan Creek, Retreat or the Texas Drive Fitness Centers.
* Only pre-registered participants may attend these classes.
Questions about a series class? 
Email [email protected] or call 512-948-7753.
Absolute Beginner Ballet
Fridays, 9:15 – 10:00 a.m. • Cowan Creek in the Salado room
6 classes for $24, January 3 – February 7
This is an introductory class, starting from the beginning. You don’t have to know anything! In this 6-week workshop you will learn the fundamental positions and vocabulary. Come enjoy the fun of learning ballet and reap the many benefits of gaining core strength and improved flexibility, balance and better posture. Ballet shoes are not required – socks will work.
Taught by Marnie.
 
Active Yoga for Seniors - Tuesdays
3:15 – 4:15 p.m. • Texas Drive
4 classes for $30, January 7 - 28
Students must be able to get up and down off the mat fairly easily. This yoga class is taught in three levels for each class (beginner, intermediate & advanced). Ki will incorporate teachings on yoga postures, yoga sutras, balancing chakras and practical Ayurvedic methods for staying balanced. A guided meditation closes each class. Taught by Ki.
 
Active Yoga for Seniors - Thursdays
9:30 - 10:30 a.m. • Cowan Creek
5 classes for $37.50, January 2 - 30
Students must be able to get up and down off the mat fairly easily. This yoga class is taught in three levels for each class (beginner, intermediate & advanced). Ki will incorporate teachings on yoga postures, yoga sutras, balancing chakras and practical Ayurvedic methods for staying balanced. A guided meditation closes each class. Taught by Ki.
 
Ballet I
Fridays, 8:00 – 9:00 a.m. • Cowan Creek
8 classes for $32, January 3 – February 28 (No Class on Feb. 14)
BALLET I is a class geared towards those with a more intense ballet background and knowledge of dance vocabulary. This class entails both barre and centre floor work with more complex combinations including adagio and petit allegro. If this description fits you, we would love to have you come enjoy our fun ballet class. Proper dance shoes are required. Taught by Marnie.
 
Beginner Country Western 2-Step
Wednesdays, 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. • Texas Drive
6 classes for $45.00, January 8 – February 12
Must register with a partner.
This class will be specifically for Beginners, but also for those who need to refresh the basics. Learn the dance protocol, which includes rhythm, timing, frame, etc. By the end of the session, you will feel comfortable and confident getting out on the dance floor. Remember, each session we will teach new patterns. You must wear smooth soled shoes (not rubber soles). Taught by Gregory & JB.
 
Beginner II Country Western 2-Step
Wednesdays, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. • Texas Drive
6 classes for $45.00, January 8 – February 12
Must register with a partner.
Beginner II is designed for the “in-between” or “not sure” couple who have taken lessons before, know the basic information and have no trouble remembering patterns to last through a whole song.  Our last session was a huge hit! Don’t forget, new patterns are taught during all of our lessons. You must wear smooth soled shoes (not rubber soles). Taught by Gregory & JB.
 
Beginner Cycling
Mondays and Wednesdays, 3:30 – 4:00 p.m. • Cowan Creek
8 classes for $26, January 6 - 29
Please come 10 minutes early to the first class to be set up on the bike!
These classes are recommended and designed for those who are new to indoor cycling. This class will familiarize new riders on how to properly set up their bikes, spinning techniques and terms, and how to monitor exercise intensity. Taught by Cara.
 
Beginner Pilates for Men
Mondays and Wednesdays, 10:15 – 11:00 a.m. • Cowan Creek in the Salado Room
8 classes for $26, January 6 - 29
This introductory class is for absolute beginners as well as for those who would like to go back to the basics. Strengthen core muscles and improve flexibility, balance, and posture by learning the Pilates method of exercise. Must have the ability to get down and up from the floor. Taught by Nancy and John.
 
Beginner Pilates – Tuesdays
9:00 – 9:45 a.m. • Cowan Creek in the Salado Room
 4 classes for $13, January 7 - 28
This introductory class is for absolute beginners as well as for those who would like to go back to the basics. Strengthen core muscles and improve flexibility, balance, and posture by learning the Pilates method of exercise. Must have the ability to get down and up from the floor. Taught by Nancy. 
 
Beginner Pilates – Saturdays
8:15 – 9:00 a.m. • Texas Drive
4 classes for $13, January 4 - 25
This introductory class is for absolute beginners as well as for those who would like to go back to the basics. Strengthen core muscles and improve flexibility, balance, and posture by learning the Pilates method of exercise. Must have the ability to get down and up from the floor. Taught by Nancy.
 
Chair Yoga – Tuesdays
1:15 – 2:15 p.m. • Cowan Creek in the Salado Room
4 classes for $30, January 7 - 28
Gentle yoga postures in or near a chair to increase range of motion for injury prevention. Develop main muscle groups to improve overall health and maintain your independence. Practice simple breathing techniques for stress management and mindfulness. Stroke survivors or those with tremors or Parkinson’s are encouraged to join. Taught by Ki.
 
Chair Yoga - Thursdays
12:15 – 1:15 p.m. • Cowan Creek in the Salado Room
5 classes for $37.50, January 2 - 30
Gentle yoga postures in or near a chair to increase range of motion for injury prevention. Develop main muscle groups to improve overall health and maintain your independence. Practice simple breathing techniques for stress management and mindfulness. Stroke survivors or those with tremors or Parkinson’s are encouraged to join. Taught by Ki.
 
Introduction to Yoga
Mondays and Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Cowan Creek in the Salado Room
8 classes for $26, January 6 – 29
This beginning yoga class is for students who have never taken yoga before. Focusing on flexibility, strength, and balance, the student will learn the basics of yoga philosophy, breathing, the basic yoga poses, and simple meditation techniques. Each class will begin with a calming, breathing exercise followed by gentle stretches to warm the body. Then the student will learn basic poses and connect the breath with the poses to experience a moving meditation… Must be able to get up and down off the mat independently, be on hands and knees for several minutes. Taught by Ellen.
 
Meditation II - Mind-Body-Spirit Hour
Wednesdays 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. • Cowan Creek in the Salado Room
4 classes for $30, January 8 – 29
Advance your meditation practice in this series. We will combine knowledge of chair yoga postures, stress management skills and natural remedies for total mind-body-spirit wellness. The final 20-30 minutes will be dedicated to meditation. Meditation has proven benefits in reducing symptoms of every disease and improving cognitive functioning and memory. Learn relaxation techniques that can decrease anxiety, increase inner peace and effectively transform your outlook. Taught by Ki.
 
Yoga Nidra
Monday, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. • Texas Drive
$3, January 6
Relax and feel great-“It’s not that kind of Yoga”. Yoga Nidra is the state of consciousness between waking and sleeping known to relieve stress and anxiety as well as aiding with sleep issues, increased energy levels, and overall well-being. We have all the items you need for class. However, bring your yoga mat, blanket, pillows, eye mask- whatever you need to feel comfortable lying on the floor and experience deep relaxation. You may bring a camp chair if you are not able to get up and down from the floor. For all levels. Taught by Barb.
Fitness 4-1-1
Modified Holiday Fitness
Class Schedules
Tuesday, December 24
Cowan Creek
 
Sunrise Cycle: 7:00am, Jan
Aqua Fitness: 8:45am, Leslie
Beginner Pilates: 9:00am, Nancy
Step: 10:00am, Leslie
Cycle-n-Sculpt: 11:00am, Leslie
Balance & Tone: 11:00am, Tammy
HIIT: 12:15pm, Keith
Chair Yoga: 1:15pm, Jen M
Cycle Express: 1:15pm, Keith
Texas Drive
 
Sunrise Yoga: 6:30am, Ellen
Cardio Sculpt: 9:15am, Tammy
Strength: 10:30am, Donna
Gentle Breath-Centered Yoga: 11:45am, Joy
Aqua Fitness: Noon, Tammy
Thursday, December 26
Cowan Creek
 
Aqua Fitness: 8:45am, Leslie
Step: 10:00am, Leslie
Cycle-n-Sculpt: 11:00am, Leslie
Senior Boot Camp: 5:45pm, Leslie
Texas Drive
 
Cardio Fun: 9:15am, Allison
Twinges ‘n Hinges Aqua: 10:30am, Ann
Parkinson’s Fit:
1:00pm, Michelle D
Fitness
Calendars
Tips from the Trainers
Do it Right!
 
We’ve all heard the warning — never let your knees go past your toes when you squat or lunge. We’re led to believe that if our knees go too far forward, we can injure them because they are no longer in a stable position. Well, that might be true. Depending on which expert you ask, it’s either worse for our hips when we limit our knee movement because the hips get caged, or it’s worse on the knees when we over extend knee movement yet prevents hip injury.
 
The truth? It’s not really about either one, again, depending on which expert you ask.
 
Dare we throw in a third opinion? Yes, and maybe this will clear up confusion in differing opinions. The biggest concern, some experts say, when our knees go past our toes is not the knees or hips at all — it’s the ankle. When we have healthy, strong ankles, we don’t have to worry so much about our knees going past our toes because the ankles keep us steady. This makes sense and deserves a second look, or at least, our ankles deserve some attention in our workout routine. How many of us actually pay attention to them when we’re working out?
 
It comes down to paying attention to every joint in the body. So, basically, everybody’s right. When the ankles are strong, then we shouldn’t have to worry about “caging” the hips, or any joint. Proper form for the squat and lunge is to keep knees behind the toes. But it shouldn’t be something to actively think about.
 
By keeping all joints strong, and practicing better back mechanics and proper form, the rest should take care of itself and proper form should come naturally. When squatting, we’re supposed to be sticking our back sides out anyway, which would prevent any dip in the knees. Lunges can get a little more complicated. Taller exercisers might experience a light leaning of the knee to keep balance. Most experts agree that this should be acceptable as long as proper form is practiced during the lung (back straight, hips pushed back, and ankles strong.)
 
The squat and the lunge are both dangerous exercises when performed improperly. Please seek the advice of Sun City personal trainer if you are confused on any aspects of the lunge and squat.
_____________
 
From the personal training staff: John Rutan, Don Moore, JB Baier, Allison Worley, Julie O’Connor, Michelle Dwyer, Brendi Middleton, Mike Stuchl, Lois Johnson, Rachelle Johnson and Byron Goff.  
 
Questions about personal training? Visit our website or email John Rutan at [email protected].

That Hits the Spot!
 
Licensed massage therapists are available everyday at the Cowan Creek Fitness Center. Gift cards are also available. Click Here to read about each therapist.
 
Contact Us
 
Michelle Mason, Fitness Director
 
Beth White, Group Fitness Coordinator
 
John Rutan, Personal Training Coordinator
 
Dick Jenkins, Fitness Operations Supervisor
 
Fitness Centers
Weekly Attendance
Please Log In Each Day!
 
Your attendance record is important in planning for space, budgeting, equipment and programming. Following are the numbers of residents who logged in last week:
 
Texas Drive - 3,114
Cowan Creek - 2,297
The Retreat - 468
Call our Fitness Information Lines:
Texas Dr. 512-948-7750 • Cowan Creek 512-948-7780 • The Retreat 512-948-7763
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