For The Vista

“Controlling weight and exercising regularly” are key phrases in the 2013 programs at the Cumberland Medical Center Wellness Complexes at Crossville and Fairfield Glade.

“We know these are two of the most important aspects of being healthy, so this year we will teach members how to achieve an optimum weight along with developing a good personal exercise program,” said Dee Dee Kuenzer, program manager.

“We have classes scheduled throughout the day to help with the exercise, and we have certified personal trainers to teach proper exercise form.”

“Think Light”, a weekly weight management program using a slow-carb and low-fat eating plan, begins Monday, Jan. 7.  Participants can sign up at either Wellness Complex.  Individuals can join at any time.

The program is taught by certified dietitians and runs for eight weeks.  Each week is a different class.

The eight subjects include “Nutrition Facts and Fallacies”, “Exercise and Fat Metabolism”, “The Art of Smart Shopping”, “The Psychology of Eating”, “Developing Exercise Habits”, “The Power of Positive Thinking”, “Low-fat Living in the Kitchen”, and “Understanding Food Cravings”.

Classes are 5 p.m. Tuesdays at Crossville and 12:30 p.m. at Fairfield Glade.  The classes are about a half-hour long.

The program includes a CD Rom with eight weeks of daily menus and recipes.  The cost is $100 for Wellness Complex members and $150 for non members.  Non members receive a free one-week pass to the Wellness Complex of choice.

Individual membership costs depend on several variables such as individual status, a couple, a family, a military category.  Persons with financial constraints may apply for a scholarship.

The Crossville Complex is at 130 Woodmere Mall on Highway 127.  The telephone number is 456-8870.

The Fairfield Glade facility is located at 130 Stonehenge Drive, in Fairfield Glade.  The telephone number is 707-8420.

Day passes are $8 at Crossville and $10 at Fairfield Glade.  Week passes are $20 at Crossville and $25 at Fairfield Glade.

The facilities also offer 20 and 40-day punch cards.  The cards may be shared by friends and relatives.  Membership is not required to use the cards.

The Fairfield Glade facility has a 24 x 75-foot fitness pool with aquatic classes and a specified lap-swim lane.

Massage therapists are available at both facilities.  Non members may purchase a massage or buy a gift massage at either facility.

Call the facility of choice and inquire about the kinds and lengths of massages, and available appointment times.

Residency in Fairfield Glade is not a requirement for a membership at the Wellness Complex at Fairfield Glade.

The Complexes won the 2012 Ovation Award for Excellence in Professional Services earlier this year.  It is the second time in the past two years the facilities were recognized in the 15 Upper Cumberland Area Counties.

It was also recognized by the national Medical Fitness Association, based in Richmond, Virginia.  The facilities earned the Distinguished Achievement Award twice, an extraordinary honor for a small health center in a rural setting.

New members receive an exercise evaluation and a nutritional consultation as part of their membership.  Updates are available every six months to chart individual progress.

Staff members are certified in cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR), first aid and water safety.

There are regular free Community Seminars conducted by local physicians and other health-related experts.

Support groups meet regularly to share information.  They are for Depression, Stroke, Cardiac, Cancer, Diabetes, and Bariatric Weigh Loss.

The Crossville Complex houses the CMC Diabetes Self-Management Program.  It is managed by certified educators and recognized by the American Diabetes Association.

Participants are provided with individualized programs, created in collaboration with the patient’s physician, a nurse educator, and a registered dietitian.