Special Section

WHAT YOU NEED:
Health, Wellness, & Fitness

V1’s guide to helping you see that new year’s resolution through

V1 Staff, photos by Andrea Paulseth |

So you want to get back in shape? We understand. You say your lifestyle could use some changes? We understand. What’s that? The never-ending flood of supplements, home workout equipment and DVDs, area gyms, and all the variables therein has you feeling a tad overwhelmed? We understand. No one is more sympathetic – nay, empathetic! – to your current situation. Volume One has been hoping to shave a few inches, too. Though Volume One-Half does sound a bit awkward. Anyway, your predicament prompted us to throw together this guide to all the things aforementioned, plus more! So give it a read while you’re on the treadmill, or doing push-ups, or, if you haven’t started your new lifestyle changes yet, give us a glance while doing butt crunches in your favorite chair.

CONTENTS:
Zumba: the hot new aerobic dance class
Feel the Burn: modern fitness options
Before You Get Back in Shape: tips from Anne Hoel
Fresh Air: local gym alternatives
Sticking to Your Diet: tips from Diane Dressel
Health Explained:
    Average Activity Times
    Glossary of Massage Terms
The Fit List (local resources for a healthy lifestyle):
    Gyms & Health Clubs
    Yoga, Pilates, & More
    Massage
    Personal Training
    Belly Dancing
    Martial Arts / Boxing
    Equipment Shops
    Hypnosis
    Acupuncture
    Wellness Centers
 

Editor/Writer: Trevor Kupfer
Photos: Andrea Paulseth / Design: Brian Moen
Contributors: Shawn Brunner, Stefanie Jaeger, Kinzy Janssen,
Briana Krantz, Shaun Marek, Theresa Schneider, Anne Hoel,
Diane Dressel, and Glen Fisher


DON’T YOU WANNA ZUMBA?
the hot new aerobic dance classes taking the Valley by storm 
by Theresa Schneider

Who says you need a partner to go salsa dancing? And why bother with the heels and blisters? Last time I went dancing I was wearing dance pants, tennis shoes, and a sweat-stained baggy t-shirt at a Zumba class.

In the past couple of years I’ve taken up running, and as much as I really enjoy a great long run, sometimes I need to shake up my workouts to keep myself motivated, especially when the meteorologists call the wind an “arctic blast.” In search of anything to mix up my routine, I found a great way to shake up my wintertime workouts – by shaking it.

Zumba, whose official tagline is “ditch the workout an join the party,” is a dance-based aerobic workout that centers on the principle that exercise should be fun, said Sue Czelatdko, Zumba Instructor at Gold’s Gym, 3225 Lorch Ave.

“That’s what I tell people, just have fun with it,” she said.

Columbian pop choreographer Alberto “Beto” Perez created Zumba in the mid-90s. Using different styles of Latin music, such as Cumbia, Salsa, Samba, and Merengue, Zumba uses dance steps to create a workout, according to the official website zumba.com

 At it’s most basic, Zumba Instructor Kristi Finco said Zumba is really just a combination of slow and fast movement to sculpt, tone, and burn fat.

“It’s addictive,” she said. “It’s not a normal aerobics class.”

I have to admit, I do have some dance experience, so the idea of dancing for a workout wasn’t too daunting. But trust me, no one has ever confused me for Shakira, so I wasn’t quite sure what to expect walking in to my first Zumba class.

Czeladko said anyone with any ability level can Zumba because all the dances steps, at their most basic, are very easy.

“If you know how to march, you know how to Salsa. If you know how to walk, you know how to Merengue,” Czelatdko said.

And sure enough it was really that simple. Really. The Salsa and Cha-Cha were broken down into basic “step right, step together.” And as the class went, hips and pivots were added.

    When the instructor yelled to the class, “Come on! You’re loose, you’re having a margarita! Is 10 o’clock too early for a margarita? … Just move, even if you just stand there and wiggle,” I knew Zumba was my kind of class.

The music started and I just let go. Sure, I looked a little stupid at first, but as I relaxed and focused on the music, the easier the steps became. My hips suddenly were moving in ways I didn’t know they could – and I found abdominal muscles I forgot about. I’ve got no idea how many calories I burned in my one Zumba class, but I’m very aware of my legs and butt. Maybe there is a little Shakira in my hips after all.

Finco said Zumba is a great workout for all ability level. “I’ve seen a lot of people come in … and over the year have lost a lot of weight,” she said.

The music really makes the workout. And I’m not the only one who thinks so. “The music is so contagious it’s like being on vacation,” she said, adding that she thinks the biggest draw to Zumba classes is the energy level and atmosphere.

I really didn’t think I was getting that great of a workout until the first song ended and I realized how hard I was breathing. I was so distracted learning the steps and with the music I didn’t notice the sweat literally running down my face. By the end of the second song I was grabbing for my water bottle. And we kept going.

The hour flew by. With fast, exotic music it was easy to get lost in the rhythms and have funshaking my hips. Any class where you leave sweaty and feeling a little sexier is a class I want to take.

To try out Zumba in the Chippewa Valley, you have a few options.
• Gold’s Gym, 3225 Lorch Ave., EC
• UWEC Recreation
• UW-Stout Recreation
• Sajaha Dance in Menomonie
• Eau Claire’s YMCA may resume classes if it finds another instructor
• Zumba.com sells DVDs for trying it at home


FEEL THE BURN
sifting through all the modern fitness options 
by Shaun Marek, UWEC Kinesiology graduate and bodybuilding champion

There’s all kinds of new stuff going on in the fitness world.  

Supplements
    Dieting supplements and muscle-building supplements are a huge industry (billions of dollars, in fact), and they’re always coming out with “new and improved” stuff. Most people purchase them because they come with an image that they want to replicate, but most of the supplements aren’t even FDA approved. Basically you could be taking a placebo and paying big bucks for it.

Home Fitness
    Home fitness is another big industry: exercise equipment like the Bowflex, Ab Crunchers, and Chuck Norris’ Total Gym. Similarly there’s what I like to call “fitness entertainment,” and that’s really starting to catch on. These are videos done by celebrities or groups of women (usually in awesome shape) that encourage the buyer to get up and replicate hip-hop dance moves – I even think Carmen Electra has a sexy stripper dancing and pole dancing video that girls can use for exercise.

Basically, I wouldn’t recommend any of these options if I was going to give advice to someone who was going to begin an exercise routine, but it really depends on what their goals are. If they don’t have money for a gym membership, then I would say do anything that gets you up and moving around. Not everyone is going to be a bodybuilder, but they can replicate the same basic exercises and dieting and also have a great physique.

Some tips I would recommend for anyone wanting to get started is to first HIT THE GYM! It’s the first step to getting a better physique.  

Working Out
    Generally I try to get about four to five workouts a week, which are around one hour 90 minutes a piece. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends doing moderately intense cardio 30 minutes a day, five days a week, or vigorously intense cardio 20 minutes a day, three days a week and eight-to-10 strength-training exercises, eight to 12 repetitions of each, twice a week. These guidelines are great for beginners or those just looking to stay in shape; however, if you want to look like a fitness model in the magazines, individuals are going to need a much more intensive regimen.

Trainers
    If you are unsure of how to use the machines, perform exercises, or set up a workout routine, I recommend spending at least a month with a personal trainer to get started in the right direction. Trust me, it will save a lot of time and frustration later on down the road.  

Diet
    The most important aspect of changing one’s physique is diet. Sticking to a healthy diet and being consistent with nutritional meals will have the biggest impact on trying to lose weight. From my experience, diet fads don’t work and I think a lot of people are catching on to this. The key is to be consistent with balanced meals and spreading the meals out throughout the day. Four or five smaller meals is better than three larger meals and it also keeps you from hitting those low points in the day where your blood sugar is low and you crave a snack from the vending machine. Don’t be afraid to treat yourself with your favorite dessert once or twice a week, but remember that moderation is key in helping you stay on track with your goals.

Burning Dough
    Making these lifestyle changes will definitely cost some money, but the benefits of a healthy body and great-looking physique are priceless. Most people would agree that they would rather spend an extra $100 a month on groceries, supplements, and a gym membership than take the chance at developing diabetes or heart conditions from living a sedentary lifestyle. Basically, its up to the individual how much they want to invest. I think of it as an investment into myself and future well-being.

* Shaun recently won first place in the Debbie Kruk Classic Bodybuilding contest in Daytona Beach. He currently resides in Port Orange, Florida.


BEFORE YOU GET BACK IN SHAPE ...
tips from local physical therapist Anne Hoel

The start of a new year is a time for people to dedicate themselves to living a more fit lifestyle. In addition to changes in eating and drinking habits, it also can include introducing an exercise regimen. But if you’ve been living a sedentary lifestyle, you might want to first exercise caution before launching into a fitness program.

It’s great that people want to get back in shape, but there’s a safe way of reintroducing fitness back into your life, and then there are other ways that will derail your program before it even gets off the ground. Try these items before you start an exercise program:

Talk before you walk
    If you aren’t a regular exerciser, talk with your doctor before beginning any exercise regimen to rule out conditions that might limit your activities.

Start small
    Set small, realistic goals to get started. You always can make more ambitious ones after the smaller ones have been attained.

Less is more
    If starting from scratch, don’t overdo it. Start off with lighter weights or shorter distances. Give your body a chance to adjust to the activity. You’ll be surprised at how much you’ll progress just by taking baby steps.

Listen to your body
    Don’t be afraid to back off if you hurt during an activity or even the following day. It’s better to let your body recover than push yourself into an injury that really forces you to take time off.

Stretch
    Avoid injuries before they start by properly stretching before and after exercise. To lengthen muscle fibers, gently hold a stretch for at least 30 seconds. Don’t force a stretch or make repeated bouncing or lunging motions.
If you experience pain that lasts more than a week or if you’re hampered by a reoccurring injury, it might be time to seek professional help. Physical therapists and sports medicine physicians specialize in how the muscles, tendons and ligaments of the body work together during exercise. Lingering or recurring pain can be a symptom of muscle imbalance or some other underlying problem that a medical professional can assess.

To discuss an injury or whether physical therapy might be in order to resume your fitness program, contact your healthcare provider. 


A BREATH OF FRESH AIR
the Chippewa Valley’s alternatives to gyms
by Glen Fisher

    Here in the Chippewa Valley, we are blessed with a wide variety of options for year-round outdoor recreation and exercise. If you are looking for a few ways to begin exercising more, a great place to start would be the parks, trails, and other natural areas near you. Many of these opportunities are free to us, or available at minimal costs. So before you start looking for the best deals for gym contracts, take a look in your own area for exercise options in nature. Here’s a few suggestions of some of the Valley’s best resources for recreation and exercise.

•   The winter months of Wisconsin scare many away from enjoying the outdoors. This is understandable, however the opportunities provided by this seasonal freeze make it all worth it to me. First of all, cross-country skiing may be one of the most fun forms of exercise. We’ve all seen the countless indoor exercise machines trying to copy this motion, but why settle for that when we have access to the real deal? Trails can be found all over, providing many miles of fun for all skill levels. In Eau Claire’s Carson Park there are several nice trails set up for beginners. Just minutes outside Eau Claire, at Lowes’ Creek County Park, you can find some amazing trails up and down hills, through creek bottoms and white pine forests. Trails range from easy to difficult, so a trail map is a good idea for those new to the park.

•   Although cross-country skiing is a great form of exercise, it does take good balance and can seem difficult for those just beginning. Snowshoeing is a great alternative. Again, the Lowes’ Creek area provides many beautiful trails. For those looking for a real good workout and some great scenery, the Hoffman Hills Recreation Area provides some challenging terrain (which is also great for skiing) as well as some easier flat areas. The winter forest beauty is a great option for bird watchers and nature lovers alike.

•   Once the winter finally melts away, the outdoor recreation options are endless. Those in warmer climates can’t possibly appreciate the seasonal change into summer as much as us. When the ice finally breaks, we have access one of my favorite past times: canoeing. All of the area lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds offer a wonderful resource. Kayaking is also a great form of exercise, and better for one person to handle on their own than canoeing. As far as great local areas to paddle, there are too many to list. The Chippewa River has no dams below Eau Claire before connecting up with the mighty Mississippi. Many miles of this stretch of river flow through National Wildlife Areas and state-protected lands. Try exploring the areas around The Tiffany Bottoms State Natural Area.

Another exercise machine found in almost any exercise facility is the bike. Bikes are a great form of cardiovascular exercise, and very low impact on our muscles and joints, plus easy to accommodate all fitness levels. There are many miles of trails throughout the Chippewa Valley, many of them traversing some of our most scenic terrain. One easily accessible section of trail can be found along the Chippewa River starting at Eau Claire’s city limits traveling west towards Menomonie. If one wants a bit more of a challenge, some great single-track mountain bike trails can be found at Lowes Creek (the same trails you were snowshoeing on in the winter!). One of my favorite bike exercise routines is to ride the hills of Lowes Creek Road on the way out to ride some single-track trails, and hit the hills again on the way back. 

All the ideas mentioned here are just the tip of the iceberg. It’s upon ourselves to begin to make the lifestyle changes that will help the community stay active in our area. We need to make exercise fun for ourselves. Embracing the outdoors in whatever activities you choose is a great way to stay motivated. All of the previously mentioned parks and natural areas offer great hiking or jogging trails. Please take some time to really enjoy the precious natural resources around us.


STICKING TO YOUR DIET
tips from dietician Diane Dressel

Fifty-two Mondays a year can really start to add up. Especially if you’re hanging your “new” diet hopes on each one.

A lot of people will have their “Last Suppers,” meaning on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday they’ll eat the food they’ll be giving up Monday. But when the diet fails, and people recommit themselves to a new Monday, the cycle has the potential to repeat itself, and this can actually lead to weight gain.

A promise without a plan is a recipe for disaster. Successful weight management isn’t a spur-of-the-moment thought. Here’s how to make your diet stick:

Prepare to start
Get rid of the food you’re trying to avoid. You can’t eat it if it’s not there. Replace it with healthy foods, such as fruits and vegetables (fresh, frozen or canned).

Get the family on board
Not from a “diet” perspective, but from a “healthy lifestyle” perspective.

Make losing weight a priority
Put it right up there with your family and your job. Commitment is important.

Stay positive
Set realistic goals. Plan daily. Look at what you are doing, not what you’re not doing.

Maintain momentum
Stick with your plan until you’ve reached your goal. Don’t let up or let yourself off the hook. No “mind games.”

Get physical
Physical activity is important in losing the weight, but even more so in keeping it off.

Don’t give up
Whatever you do is better than nothing.

People wanting to lose 10 to 20 pounds might want to consider seeing a registered dietitian or consulting their health care provider. However, if people have 25 pounds or more to lose, they should view losing weight as a medical treatment and consider a medically managed program.

The Health Management Resources program at Luther Midelfort was featured recently in a Mayo Clinic study that was published in the Journal of Disease Management and Health Outcomes. Program participants were found to have lost an average of 42 pounds a year after starting the program. Meanwhile, participants involved in commercial weight loss programs were found to have gained two pounds a year from starting their respective programs. Free weight management orientations are at 5:30 pm Mondays at Luther Midelfort, 733 W. Clairemont Ave. Call 715-838-6731 to reserve a seat.


AVERAGE ACTIVITY TIMES

Here are the amounts of activity necessary for the average, healthy person to maintain a minimum level of overall fitness. Included are some of the popular exercises for each category.

Muscular Strength
A minimum of two 20-30 minute sessions per week that include exercises for all the major muscle groups. Lifting weights is the most effective way to increase strength.

Muscular Endurance
At least three 30-minute sessions each week that include exercises such as calisthenics, push-ups, sit-ups, pull-ups, and weight training for all the major muscle groups.

Cardiorespiratory Endurance
Experts recommend that you get at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise most of the days of the week. Moderate intensity might equal a brisk walk.

Flexibility
Ten to 12 minutes of daily stretching exercises performed slowly without a bouncing motion. This can be included after a warm-up or during a cool-down.

Body Composition
A combination of physical activity and a sound nutritional plan will help reduce body fat. Further, being physically active (e.g. walking when possible) will help build muscle density as well as burn calories.


GLOSSARY OF MASSAGE TERMS

Deep tissue focuses on the deeper layers of muscle tissue to release tension with the use of slow strokes and deep finger pressure. The pressure either follows or goes across the grain of muscles, tendons, and fascia.

Shiatsu and acupressure are Oriental-based systems of finger-pressure that treat special points along “meridians” (the invisible channels of energy flow in the body). Massage therapists believe that energy blocked along these meridians can cause physical discomfort, so the aim is to release the blockage and re-balance the energy flow. They can be used for the full body or for specific areas of the body.

Reflexology, or zone therapy, is based around a system of points in the hands and feet thought to correspond to all areas of the body.

Swedish massage, a system of long strokes, kneading, and friction techniques on the more superficial layers of the muscles, combined with active and passive movements of the joints.

Trigger point therapy, sometimes called myotherapy or neuromuscular therapy, involves concentrated finger pressure against painful, irritated areas in specific muscles to relieve spasm and pain.

Sports Massage is massage therapy focusing on muscle systems relevant to a particular sport.


THE FIT LIST: Gyms & Health Clubs

Anytime Fitness 329 Water St., Suite E, Eau Claire; 831-6400 / 401 Pinnacle Way, Suite 116, Eau Claire; 831-6200 / 1700 Stout St., Menomonie; 309-4441 / 312 Bridge St., Chippewa Falls; 723-3800 • www.anytimefitness.com • A membership gets you unlimited, on-your-own access to a wide array of exercise machinery and free weights. Personal training, tanning. Open 24 hours, pay as you go plans available.

Bodyworks Athletic Club, LLC 2407 Stout Road, Menomonie • 235-6106 • Personal training; free weights and machines; saunas; strength and endurance training, cardio, yoga, and spinning classes; tanning; kids’ services. Locker facilities available.

Chippewa Valley Family YMCA 611 Jefferson Ave., Chippewa Falls • 723-2201 • www.chippewaymca.com • Free weights and machines; basketball; racquetball; indoor track; pool; strength and endurance training, cardio, yoga, dance, spinning, swimming, gymnastics, and specialty classes; first aid, lifeguard, and babysitting training; massage; kids’ events and classes. Childcare.

Curves 3198 London Road, Eau Claire; 552-8783 / 3029 N. Hastings Way, Eau Claire; 834-9507 / 335 E. Prairie View Road, Chippewa Falls; 720-0304 / 2010 Stout Road, Menomonie; 235-6600 • www.curves.com • Designed around circuit training utilizing hydraulic resistance equipment, Curves’s 30-minute sessions in fitness, strength training, and weight-loss guidance are hosted in an environment designed for women.



Eau Claire YMCA 700 Graham Ave., Eau Claire • 836-8460 • www.eauclaireymca.org • Free weights and machines; basketball; volleyball; racquetball; indoor track; pool; strength and endurance training, cardio, yoga, dance, indoor cycling, swimming, gymnastics, martial arts, and specialty classes; first aid, lifeguard, and babysitting training; massage; kids’ events and classes. Tennis center located at 229 Moore St., Eau Claire, 836-8470.

Gold’s Gym 3225 Lorch Ave., Eau Claire • 552-4570 • www.goldsgym-ec.com • New location! Personal training; free weights and machines; basketball; volleyball; strength and endurance training, cardio, body sculpting, Pilates, yoga, circuit, spinning, dance, and specialty classes; cardio cinema; large swimming pool; nutritional counseling; beverage bar; pro shop; kids’ services.

Highland Fitness Centers 2221 Eastridge Center, Eau Claire / 2403 Folsom Street, Suite A, Eau Claire / 3022 Commercial Blvd., Chippewa Falls • 833-2100 • www.highlandfitness.com • Personal training; free weights and machines; strength and endurance training, cardio, body sculpting, Pilates, yoga, Nia, circuit, and spinning classes; massage; nutritional counseling; beverage bar; tanning; Kidz Klub.

UW-Stout Sport & Fitness Center
• 232-1392 • http://urec.uwstout.edu • Strength and endurance training, free weights and cardio machines, group fitness classes-Pilates, yoga, dance, circuit training, zumba, kickboxing; Personal training; basketball; volleyball; racquetball; indoor track; indoor climbing wall; outdoor ropes course; pool; pro shop.



UWEC Recreation & Sport Facilities 105 Hilltop Center, UW-Eau Claire • 836-3377 • www.uwec.edu/recreation • For UWEC students and staff. Free weights and machines; basketball; volleyball; racquetball; tennis; bowling; indoor track; climbing wall; pool; strength and endurance training, cardio, body sculpting, Pilates; spinning, dance, and wellness classes; massage.

Snap Fitness 24-7 3445 E Hamilton Ave., Eau Claire; 830-9999 / 1320 Broadway St. N, Menomonie; 232-9999 / 475 Chippewa Mall Dr., # 305, Chippewa Falls; 723-0602 • www.snapfitness.com • A membership gets you unlimited, on-your-own access to a wide array of exercise machinery and free weights. Tanning. Open 24 hours. Pay-as-you-go plans available. No long-term contracts required.

Wissota Fitness Tanning & Massage 16850 Cty. Hwy. X, Chippewa Falls • 723-7006 • www.wissotafitness.com • Free weights and machines; personal training; circuit training; massage; tanning; spa services.


THE FIT LIST: Yoga, Pilates, & More

Gaia Massage & Yoga 412 ½ Water St., Eau Claire • 831-7918 • www.gaiamassageandyoga.com • In addition to their therapeutic massage services, Gaia’s experienced staff offers a range of private and public yoga instruction.

Pilates, Yoga, and Beyond 4913 River Glen Court, Eau Claire • 832-7335 • www.baemmert.com • Private sessions and group classes in Pilates, yoga, Thai yoga bodywork, belly dancing and more.

Yoga Center Of Eau Claire
412 1/2 Water St., Eau Claire • 830-0321 • www.infinitejoy.com/yoga • Workshops, classes, retreats, and “mini classes” for all levels of yoga, Hatha Yoga, Ayurveda, Pilates, and more for all ages.

Young for Life Wellness
1807 Wilson St., Suite A, Menomonie • 505-4189 • Offers yoga and Tuina massage.

Also, see gym listings.


THE FIT LIST: Massage

 A Quiet Place N7654 690th St., Menomonie • 235-7182 • Therapeutic massage-neuromuscular, deep tissue, trigger-point, and relaxation.

A-Ok Stress-Release Doctors 2512 John St., Eau Claire • 379-4901 • Offering “T.M.” stress-release, meditation techniques. Free introductory lecture; group discounts.

All About You Massage 405 S. Farwell St., #3, Eau Claire • 830-0777 • Offering deep tissue, Swedish, and basic relaxation massage; as well as trigger point therapy and foot massages.

Body Essentials Massage 800 Wisconsin St., # 414, Eau Claire • 552-1441 • www.bodyessentialsmassage.com • A variety of massage services to target physical conditions, lifestyle traits, stress levels, and areas of pain.

Body Focus 705 S. Barstow St., Eau Claire • 835-8898 • www.bodyfocusonline.com • Specialize in deep tissue massage. New clients receive $15 off and free chair massage 11am-1pm weekdays. Open 7 days a week, 8am-9pm.

Chippewa Valley Chiropractic and Massage 116 N Bridge St., Chippewa Falls • 726-1010 • Offering massage and bodywork, therapeutic massage, and physical therapy targeting headaches, neck, back and shoulder pain. Swedish, deep tissue.

Elements for Healthcare 431 E Clairemont Ave, Suite 2A, Eau Claire • 832-2005 • www.elementsforhealthcare.com • Offers services such as TCM acupuncture, therapeutic massage, and strategies to reduce stress.

Essential Massage Therapy Center 4330 Golf Terrace, Suite 209 Eau Claire • 888-213-0820 • www.essentialmassagetherapy.com • Offers Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, chair, prenatal, couples, sports, Fourhand, neuromuscular, and Thai yoga massages.

Gaia Massage & Yoga 412 ½ Water St., Eau Claire • 831-7918 • www.gaiamassageandyoga.com • In addition to their yoga and wellness classes, Gaia offers massage therapy; Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, prenatal, and aromatherapy massage; and reflexology services.

Harmony Healing Center 2519 N. Hillcrest Pkwy # 101, Altoona • 831-8030 • www.harmonyhealingcenter.net • Offers Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, trigger point, chair, prenatal, sports, and AMMA massage; as well as reflexology and neuromuscular therapy.

Healing Arts Center 710 4th St. E, Menomonie • 235-7711 • www.bubishi.com • A school for massage therapy and Asian bodywork therapy. Specializing in AMMA Therapy, which is concerned with the balance and movement of life energy in the human body.

Healing Choices Massage & Tai Chi 2711 Pleasant St., Eau Claire • 852-0303 • www.healingchoicesec.com • Classes offered in Tai Chi and MMA, four days a week. Also offers hot stone massage and AMMA Therapy, and has a complete line of nutritional supplements available.

Health & Longevity Massage Therapy 700 Graham Ave., Eau Claire • 836-8460 • A wide range of massage services.

The Lotus Spa 4956 Bullis Farm Road, Eau Claire • 835-1100 • www.lotusspaeauclaire.com • Relaxation, sport, or deep tissue massages available. Also offering aromatherapy scalp massages, maternity massage, and hot stone treatments. Relaxation facials and hydrotherapy tubs.

Optimum Therapies, LLC 517 E. Clairemont Ave., Eau Claire, 855-0408 / 916 15th Ave., Menomonie, 233-6230 • www.optimumtherapies.com • Offering deep tissue, trigger point release, myofascial release, neuromuscular, sports, Swedish, and hot stone massage and physical therapy.

Path to Health Massage Therapy and Wellness 310 S. Barstow St., Eau Claire • 852-0577 • www.pathtohealthmassage.com • Offering Swedish, aromatherapy, hot stone, reflexology, prenatal, sports, deep tissue, Reiki, and AMMA massage.

Poppy Moelter, Massage Therapist 820 Chauncey St., Eau Claire • 834-8867 • Offers therapeutic massage, for neuromuscular therapy and myofascial release, as well as integrative movement (inner-guided dance).

Sans Souci Massage 927 Loring St., Suite 4, Altoona • 830-9890 • www.sanssoucimassage.com • Offering therapeutic massage and bodywork.

Transitions Massage Therapy 3635 N Hastings Way, Eau Claire • 834-2984 • Therapeutic massage services.

Young for Life Wellness 1807 Wilson St., Suite A, Menomonie • 505-4189 • Offers yoga and Tuina massage.


THE FIT LIST: Personal Training

Evolve Wellness, LLC Eau Claire • 864-7000 • www.livewellevolve.com • Cheri Harrison, NASM certified personal trainer offers in-home personal training services as well as customized group workshops.Complimentary consultation available upon request.

Momentum SportFitness, LLC 2615 London Road, Eau Claire • 955-4319 • www.momentumsport.com • New, larger facilities. Personal and group training for sports conditioning, rehabilitation, and general strength and fitness for both kids and adults. Clinics available for coaches. Adding new baseball academy. Endorsed by the Eau Claire County SWAT Team.
 


THE FIT LIST: Belly Dancing

Bellydancing with Laura Gaber Dancers Studio – Banbury Place, 800 Wisconsin St., Eau Claire • 926-4233 • Laura teaches six-week classes in beginning and intermediate bellydancing.

Pilates, Yoga, and Beyond 4913 River Glen Court, Eau Claire • 832-7335 • www.baemmert.com • Private sessions and group classes in Pilates, yoga, Thai yoga bodywork, belly dancing and more.

Radiant Health Chiropractic 524 Water St., Eau Claire • 838-9432 or 877-3198  • www.radianthealthchiro.com or www.alittlebitgypsy.com • Sharon Brendemuehl teaches six-week bellydancing courses.

Sahaja Dance / Rebecca Whitman Menomonie • 643-7201 • www.sahajadance.com • Belly dance workouts in a friendly, energetic atmosphere with a focus on body isolations, basic dance steps and combinations, and the use of finger cymbals. Targets weight loss, fun, and spiritual health. Also available, Zumba – high-energy fitness classes inspired by Latin dance. No experience is necessary to start.


THE FIT LIST: Martial Arts / Boxing

AKF Martial Arts Academy of Eau Claire 1606 S Hastings Way, Suite B, Eau Claire • 715-613-8282 • Kyuki-Do is focused on helping you and your families achieve goals through martial art techniques, practical self defense, and traditional principles. Offers classes for ages 5 and up, and done in a group setting. Can also accommodate private lessons.

American Tae Kwon Do & Fitness 800 Wisconsin St., Eau Claire • 552-2777 • www.atf.nu • Taekwondo classes in both private and group settings offering fast, hard-hitting cardio workouts. Also offers a fitness membership where members can independently use the facility and equipment during non-class hours.

Ancient Arts Eau Claire • 514-0388 • Traditional Chinese kung-fu instruction in both private and group settings covering Wing Chun, Qi Gong, and Taoist areas. Instructor Sifu Howard was trained in China and has amassed thirty years of experience.

Chippewa Valley Boxing Club 450 A St., Chippewa Falls • 271-7717 • Instruction for amateurs and children, and training for professional fighters. Focus on cardio work, discipline, and basic fundamentals. Offers kickboxing and mixed martial arts as well. Members compete in local shows.

Clear Water Martial Arts 10 West Spring St., Chippewa Falls • 723-3321 • Offering private and group Karate instruction to all ages.

Elite Karate 410 Bay St., Chippewa Falls, 720-9218 / 800 Wisconsin St., Eau Claire, 831-0347 • www.elitekaratestudios.com • Karate instruction in both private and group settings focusing on the three core values of honor, discipline, and respect.

Healing Choices Tai Chi 2711 Pleasant St., Eau Claire • 852-0303 • www.healingchoicesec.com • Classes offered in Tai Chi, and AMMA Therapy – a holistic system of healing that uses Asian bodywork (massage), nutrition and herbal remedies, as well as stress management strategies, to bring balance back to the body.

Ju’s Taekwondo Karate Academy 415 S. Farwell St., Eau Claire • 834-5766 • www.justaekwondo.com • Taekwondo classes in both private and group settings. Classes target self-defense, weight control, physical and mental fitness, improved coordination and agility.

Karate American 2228 N. Hillcrest Pkwy., Altoona • 832-6488 • www.karate-american.com • Karate instruction for all ages in both private and group settings. Lessons in Karate, Taekwondo, Judo, and Aikido are available.

Menomonie Goju-Ryu Karate 1807 Wilson St. # A, Menomonie • 233-9927 • www.menomoniegoju.com • Okinawan style Karate instruction in both private and group settings. Also offers yoga and Tai-Chi.

Nuff Said Fight Club 2614 London Road, Eau Claire • 855-1275 • www.nuffsaidfightclub.com • Founded and operated by professional fighters. For a fee, offers open gym time and instruction in jiu jitsu and kickboxing.

One Tree Martial Arts 128 S. Barstow St., Eau Claire • (877) 633-8733 • www.onetreemartialarts.com • Martial arts instruction in group or private settings spanning Taekwondo, Hapkido, Northern Shaolin, Hung-Gar, Wing Chun, Yang Tai-Chi, Chin-Na, Jui-Jitsu, Shori-Ryu, and Kobudo. Now offering women’s self-defense and kickboxing classes. All ages.

Red Dragon Academy 438 Main St. E, Menomonie • 235-1122 • 309-9114 • www.reddragonacademy.com • Karate instruction for all ages in both private and group settings. Check out the special wellness program.


THE FIT LIST: Equipment Shops

Anybody’s Bikeshop 411 Water St., Eau Claire • 833-7100 • www.anybodysbikeshop.com • Bikes, accessories, and bicycling apparel.

Dunham’s Sporting Goods
1501 Broadway St. N., Menomonie • 235-0750 • A range of gear and equipment from fitness to hunting and fishing.

Eau Claire Bike & Sport
403 Water St., Eau Claire • 832-6149 • www.bikeandsport.com • Bikes; skateboards; inline skates; snowboards; fitness equipment, accessories, disc golf.

Mi Zi Zak Kayaks
29588 State Road 40, New Auburn • 967-2301 • www.mizizakkayak.com • A range of kayaks and kayaking accessories.

Play It Again Sports 3561 Gateway Dr., Eau Claire • 834-0602 • www.playitagainsports.com • New and used fitness, hockey, golf, baseball, rollerblades, and soccer equipment.

Scheels All Sports 4710 Golf Road Eau Claire • 833-1886 • A wide range of sporting goods and fitness gear from shoes to home gyms.

Second Wind Exercise Equipment
4639 Keystone Crossing, Eau Claire • 839-9660 • www.2ndwindexercise.com • Name brand used fitness equipment.

Simple Sports
326 Main St. E., Menomonie • 233-3493 • Sales and service on bikes (new and used), hockey equipment, skateboards, snowboards, and disc golf supplies.

Spring Street Sports
12 W. Spring St., Chippewa Falls • 723-6616 • www.springstreetsports.com • A huge selection of bikes and bike accessories, as well as snow sports equipment.

The Exercise Equipment Store
5709 State Road 93, Eau Claire • 830-9844 • www.xequip.net • Ellipticals, treadmills, home gyms; exercise bikes; tanning, and more.
 


THE FIT LIST: Hypnosis

Heaven Sent Hypnotherapy 3548 Cypress St., Eau Claire • 833-1096  • www.heavensenthypnotherapy.com • Julie Geigle helps people tap into the power of the subconscious mind to heal the body and achieve goals. She also offers angel card and medium readings.

Hypnosis Center of Eau Claire 306 S. Barstow St., Eau Claire • 552-5355 • www.hypnosiscenterec.com • Certified hypnotherapist Richard Marano will “allow your subconscious mind to replace bad habits with new and healthier ones.” Improve anything from insomnia to anxiety to weight problems.

Infinity Natural Health Services Helios Center, 815 E Main St., Menomonie • 790-1295 • www.infinitynaturalhealthservices.com • Specializes in acupuncture, hypnotherapy, neurolink, diet therapy, and lifestyle counseling.


THE FIT LIST: Acupuncture

Acupuncture Natural Care Center 1650 Hallie Road, Chippewa Falls • 831-8223 • Specializing in acupuncture, general Oriental medicine, and PEMF, or pulsed electromagnetic field therapy.

Elements for Healthcare 431 E Clairemont Ave, Suite 2A, Eau Claire • 832-2005 • www.elementsforhealthcare.com • Offers services such as TCM acupuncture, therapeutic massage, and strategies to reduce stress.

Infinity Natural Health Services Helios Center, 815 E Main St., Menomonie • 790-1295 • www.infinitynaturalhealthservices.com • Specializes in acupuncture, hypnotherapy, neurolink, diet therapy, and lifestyle counseling.

Paul Lin Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine Clinic 3004 Golf Rd # 100, Eau Claire • 834-4516 • Specializing in Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture.

Root and Branch Acupuncture 1227 Menomonie St.., Eau Claire • 836-9696 • A retired nurse practitioner offers both needle and non-needle acupuncture, and microcurrent and meridian therapy.
 


THE FIT LIST: Wellness Centers

Holistic Therapy, LLC 515 S. Barstow St., Eau Claire • 379-5331 • www.holistictherapyllc.com • Ann Recine provides integrative therapies for people with chronic medical and psychiatric illnesses.  

Wholistic Healing Arts Center 1119 Regis Ct., Eau Claire • 831-9144