All News That's Fitness! | September 2023

Labor Day might be unofficial start of Fall, but in Florida we know better. Pumpkin spice might be arriving in our stores, but cool weather may still be months away. Stay consistent with your indoor workouts, and think of all the "weather bragging" we get to do this Winter!

EDITOR'S NOTE: the newsletter is divided into Happenings across ALL centers, then at each individual center, alphabetically: Bloomingdale, Carillon, and Cheek-Powell.

Happenings at all Centers
EMAIL with questions and comments!

Labor Day Monday September 4

All Centers: 6:00am - 2:00pm 


Bloomingdale

 9:00am Cycle with Melissa

10:00am Zumba with Sandra


Carillon 

10:00am "SweatFest" with Terri

11:00am Yoga with Kathleen 


Cheek-Powell

9:00am Total Body Training with Carol

10:00am Stretch & Relax with Leslie

Regular hours and classes

resume Tuesday, September 5

Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

Spread Awareness - Save Lives


By: Kathy Marma

Stage IIIC Ovarian Cancer Survivor

Baycare Fitness Center Carillon Member 


There is NO EARLY DETECTION TEST for ovarian cancer. The Pap Smear Test does not test for ovarian cancer; it screens for cervical cancer. Your best defense is to know the symptoms and risk factors!



Ovarian cancer (the umbrella term for the many cancers that affect the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the primary peritoneal cavity) is the 5th leading cause of cancer deaths among Americans born female: 1 in 78 are diagnosed with this disease, at a rate of 1 every 23 minutes. Each year over 21,000 Americans are diagnosed and about 14,000 die of the disease. Almost 85% of cases are diagnosed at advanced stages, and fewer than 46% survive 5 years after diagnosis. Patients have over 70% chance of recurrence, so over 200,000 are living with chronic ovarian cancer. 

 

The best tool for saving lives is by increasing awareness and education since there are no routine screenings for ovarian cancer and symptoms are often confused with other less severe illness. Most people are diagnosed once the cancer has already spread, making it more difficult to treat.



Common Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer include: 

  • Bloating and increased abdomen size, 
  • Difficult eating or feeling full quickly, 
  • Pain in pelvic or abdomen area, and
  • Urgent or frequent urination. 
  • Other symptoms could include changes in bowel habits, abnormal bleeding, extreme fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. 

 

Anyone born with ovaries are at risk of ovarian cancer but other factors can increase your risk. Ovarian cancer is more common in 50-70 year olds: 

  • with a family history of ovarian, breast, endometrial, or colorectal cancer, 
  • of Jewish Eastern European background, 
  • with certain genetic mutations like the BRCA gene mutation, 
  • who have not delivered children, and
  • who have taken a hormone replacement. 

 

If you suspect you have Ovarian Cancer see your gynecologist right away. You will need a bi-manual exam, a CA-125 blood test or a trans-vaginal sonogram. Don’t hesitate!

 

Local Fun Support Opportunity 

The Celma Mastry Ovarian Cancer Foundation One Step Closer race/walk returns Saturday September 9, 2023! Grab your friends, coworkers, and family and join us once again in Downtown St. Petersburg, starting and ending at the waterfront Albert Whitted Park. Walk, run, or jog with fellow supporters and help provide financial assistance to patients and support research, prevention, and education in the community.


Resources and Sources

Celma Mastery Cancer Foundation 

American Cancer Society

Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance 

Center for Disease Control 

Virtual Nutrition Event

Special Virtual Topic:

Nutrition and Gut Health

Thursday September 14 at 2pm



Good gut health essentially means great overall health. This month’s virtual special topic seminar is focused on how diet can support a healthy gut microbiome and includes topics such as pre and probiotics, dietary fiber, fermented foods and the use of supplements. Join Registered Dietitian Anjie for a discussion about improving gut health through better nutrition.


To register, click on the pic!

Member Spotlight

Joe O'Connell


Joe O’Connell and his wife Sandy joined Cheek Powell Fitness Center last summer after moving from Orlando. Multiple neighbors recommended the facility.


"As a 30-year Army combat veteran, I know the importance of physical fitness in my routine. The breadth of services at Cheek Powell fits nicely into that. One of the key components of my program has been working with personal trainer Carol. Since starting six months ago, I have lost almost 15 pounds and gained measurable strength.



Another perk has been having massage readily available. It has helped me with flexibility, and is super relaxing! 


From the moment I walk through the front door of the gym and see Nicole’s and Joy’s smiling faces, I always feel welcome. And Leonardo keeps morale high out on the floor. It makes working out enjoyable." 

Cheek-Powell Member Joe O'Connell

Team Member Spotlight

Bloomingdale

Personal Trainer Gavin


"Hey there, I'm Gavin Larkin. I have a passion for functional training, mobility enhancement, and strength building. After two years collaborating with Physical Therapists, my expertise is designing programs that prioritize injury prevention with functional training, emphasizing movements that mimic real-life activities to enhance everyday mobility. Having lost over 100 pounds, I understand the mental and physical hurdles that come with making significant lifestyle changes, and this empathy is the foundation of my coaching style. Whether you want to lose weight, improve mobility or build strength, I'm here to provide individualized guidance and support every step of the way. Be on the lookout for my new class coming in September, "Functional Focus”. Each week it targets a specific body group with tailored exercises that enhance mobility, build strength, and boost overall functionality."

GroupEx Spotlight

Carillon Movement For Life (MFL) with Kathy (pink tank), Tue 9am and Fri 10am

What are your fellow members saying?

 

"It is uplifting and energizing, a great way to start the day. Best gym ever!” – Marilyn

 

“The class is perfect for anyone who wants to begin a workout program with a gentle start, or for those looking for a class offering the benefits of stretching, balance and strength. Kathy is a warm and welcoming instructor. Movement for Life is a class that’s very accessible to all levels!” – Elaine

 

“Movement for Life encompasses a full body stretch routine that wakes up the body by increasing range of motion, improving stamina as well as balance, and eliminating fatigue. Highly recommend.” – Judy


"It's the right mix of stretching and active movement. It’s the class that got me back to the gym after the long pandemic hiatus. Kathy’s personality and caring are the special ingredient.” – Carolyn

 

“Kathy is a very competent teacher. She makes sure she can see everybody from her position before starting the class to be able to correct our movements as needed. She always has time to give us advice after class if we ask.” - Martine

 

“I love Kathy’s class. Very relaxing and helps me tremendously. She is a great instructor.” – Mo


“I have some physical limitations and find Movement for Life class to be absolutely essential to my week. I hate missing her class and go whenever I possibly can. Kathy always gives suggestions for people to accommodate their limitations. – Fran


“Try the class once and you will be back often.” - Janet

New Faces at BayCare Fitness

Carillon Member Services Rep Maddie


"A St. Pete native, I graduated with a Biology degree from UF (go Gators) and want to be a Genetic Counselor. I have 2 dogs and a cat. I love to hike, read and was a ballerina for most of my life."

Cheek-Powell Massage Therapist Nikki


Nikki specializes in Swedish, deep tissue, and trigger point massages. She is great with sciatica and uses stretching in her massages. She is certified as a Level 2 Reiki Practitioner and currently in training to become a doula. 

For information about the programs or how to get started, visit the website or EMAIL us.

September Virtual Health Seminar

Abdominal Wall Hernias

Presented by: Sachin Vaikunth, MD 


An abdominal wall hernia is an opening or area of weakness in the abdominal wall through which abdominal contents can  protrude. Many hernias are asymptomatic, but some may be causing pain and require immediate surgery. Explore the types, symptoms and causes as well as treatment paths for abdominal wall hernias. Get an understanding of what abdominal wall hernias are and help to reduce your risk. 

  

Date: Thursday, September 28

Time: 12:30pm - 1:15pm

Register for your free Microsoft Teams invite:

https://forms.office.com/r/iAHmbZsWcp

(Use "BayCare Fitness" as your "organization" to register). 

Dr. Sachin Vaikunth

Dr. Sachin Vaikunth is a board-certified general surgeon who has advanced training in minimally invasive laparoscopic, bariatric and robotic surgical procedures. 

Dr. Vaikunth’s clinical interests include striving to provide his patients with the most advanced and minimally invasive surgical procedures, and is known as an informative, approachable, and compassionate medical provider. He is a member of the American College of Surgeons and the American Medical Association and, also certified in advanced cardiac life support and fundamentals of laparoscopic surgery. Dr. Vaikunth is affiliated with Morton Plant North Bay Hospital. 

Check out past presentation and additional wellness resources at:

https://baycare.org/services/employer-solutions/employer-resources

BayCare HealthChat Podcasts

BayCare HealthChat is a library of podcasts that you can listen to online or with your favorite podcast service. Each month we'll select one that is fitness or wellness related and offer the direct link here.


Common Injuries in Active Adults with Fred Brennan Jr, DO is our September featured podcast. Dr. Brennan is board certified in family medicine. After spending two months as a medical student with a family medicine residency program he was so impressed with their breadth of knowledge and scope of practice that he decided to pursue family and sports medicine.


He currently serves as a team physician for the NFL Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and the MLB Toronto Blue Jays. Dr. Brennan enjoys boating with his children and wife, music, skiing, and hiking. He also enjoys running and competing in triathlons.


Learn more about Dr. Brennan.

Dr. Fred Brennan, Jr., DO

Happenings at Bloomingdale
Register on the Member Portal or call the Front Desk at 813-586-8600

Functional Focus Series

Discover a month of curated workouts, spotlighting a distinct muscle group each week, ensuring a comprehensive fitness experience. Begin your journey to strength with our Functional Focus series!



Thursdays in

September 

10:00am

GroupEx Studio


Sept. 7: Core Fusion- Dive into core-strengthening exercise that enhance stability and balance.

Sept.14: Lower Body Blast- Experience an intense focus on lower body muscles through dynamic

routines.

Sept. 21: Push Power (Chest, Shoulders, Triceps) - Elevate upper body strength using targeted

weightlifting and functional exercises. 

Sept. 28: Pull Mastery (Back & Biceps)- Shape your back and biceps with focus on technique like 

rows and curls.


Member pricing: $20 per session

Guest pricing:   $25 per session

Register and pay at the Fitness Front Desk, or call 813-586-8600 for more information.

Foam Rolling for Fascia Release

Join LaMor Silas, Yoga Therapist and Personal Trainer, for an interactive session on foam rolling for fascia release. Often when we think we have tight muscle it's actually the fascia layers on top of the muscular area. Learn ways to keep fascia supple and healthy and foam rolling techniques to release fascia tightness when it occurs. No experience necessary. 



Thursday Sept. 14 12:00pm

or

Saturday Sept. 16

9:30am



Member pricing: $10 per session.

Guest pricing:   $15 per session.

Register and pay at the Fitness Front Desk, or call 813-586-8600 for more information.

Live Nutrition Events


Cooking Demo


It is almost fall and that means pumpkin everything! But don't forget about the other types of winter squash and the wide variety of nutrients they contain. Winter squash are loaded with carotenoids, vitamin C, B6, dietary fiber, magnesium and potassium. Join Anjie for a “gourd” time as she cooks up a few delicious and nutritious squash and pumpkin recipes to enjoy this fall!  



Thursday, September 28

12:00pm

Bloomingdale NuKitchen



Space is limited. Register for live events in the member portal (type: Nutrition) or through the front desk.

Happenings at Carillon
Register on the Member Portal or call the Front Desk at 727-502-4444

Seated Pilates with Lori

Doing modified Pilates movements while seated in a chair is a great way to get the health benefits of these core movements. Build strength and flexibility while adapting to your own abilities! All fitness levels are welcome.


Tuesday, Sept. 5

11:00am

GroupEx Studio



Free to members and guests. Guest Forms must be signed at the Front Desk prior to class. Register on the member portal (Pop-Ups) or stop by or call the front desk.

Self Awakening Yoga with Stacy

Self Awakening Yoga (or SAY) is an inquiry into self, connecting your breath with movement to create unique shapes. Learn new ways of movement that support alignment, and release inefficient holding patterns and tight areas: seated, kneeling, prone and supine. Props and modifications provided. Bring a blanket to spread out and roll around on it for more space than just a mat. SAY encourages freedom of space!



Monday September 18

12:00pm

GroupEx Studio


Free to members. One-day guest memberships are available for $10. Register on the member portal (Pop-Ups) or stop by or call the front desk.

Happenings at Cheek-Powell

Register on the Member Portal or call the Front Desk at 727-462-7685

Intro to Pilates with Ashlee

This workshop is suitable for anyone with or without Pilates experience. It explains the benefits of using the core and the 6 Pilates principals: Control, Concentration, Centering, Precision, Breath, and Flow. Participants learn modifications and progression in the Pilates method using the core for better posture, balance and flexibility.


Thursdays Sept 7 & 21

at 6:30pm

&

Mondays Sept 11 & 25

at 4:30pm


Free to members. One-day guest memberships are available for $10. Register on the member portal (Pop-Ups) or stop by or call the front desk.

Group Fitness Schedules - Click HERE!

BayCare Health Hub
2470 Bloomingdale Ave.
Valrico, FL 33596
(813) 586-8600
BayCare Outpatient Center
900 Carillon Parkway
St. Petersburg, FL 33716
(727) 502-4444
Morton Plant Hospital
455 Pinellas St.
Clearwater, FL 33756
(727) 462-7685
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