Pilates/Yoga Classes Starting in Seymour

Winter Recreation Programs in Seymour

New Fitness Center Opens in Seymour

Resolve to Live Healthier in 2017

DERBY - Resolve to start a healthier lifestyle in the New Year with Griffin Hospital’s Wellness for Life Program.

 

Wellness for Life is a 12-week, evidence-based lifestyle change program that helps prevent and treat many chronic diseases. It’s designed for individuals ready to make changes in their nutrition, physical activity and stress management. With the support of a multi-disciplinary staff, Wellness for Life members take ownership of making long-term lifestyle changes in their lives.

 

According to a report by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 80 percent of chronic diseases, like obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol, can be prevented with better lifestyle choices in nutrition, activity and emotional health.

 

Wellness for Life will hold two sessions starting in late January 2017. There will be an evening session on Tuesdays from 6-8:30 p.m., starting Jan. 31, and an afternoon session on Tuesdays from 1-3 p.m., starting Feb.21.

 

The program encourages participants to make a commitment for a healthier life through custom fitness evaluation and planning, individual nutritional guidance, one-on-one coaching, and small, interactive health seminars. Each participant also receives an activity tracker, which helps monitor his or her activity, sleep patterns and food intake.

 

Wellness for Life meets at the Hewitt Ambulatory Pavilion (located in the Center for Cancer Care at Griffin Hospital) at 350 Seymour Ave., in Derby.

 

For more information about Wellness for Life, visit griffinhealth.org or call Program Co-Director Eunice Lisk, MS, at 203-732-7107.

(This is a press release from Griffin Hospital)

 

Learn yoga, discover insects at Ansonia Nature Center

ANSONIA - The Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center will offer yoga and fitness classes starting at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 4.

Instructor Pamela Mellitz will lead students through stretching and toning, balance and awareness.
She also will demonstrate the importance of just breathing correctly for better physical and mental health in these 90-minute sessions.
Cost is $7 per class.

For information call Mellitz, 203-888-4124.

Nature's Child: Incredible Insects
Join naturalist Wendy at 10:30 a.m. Sept. 5 to discover the critters who live in the park’s beautiful yellow flowers. You’ll be amazed to find how many tiny creatures live on our goldenrod.  

Tuition is $6 per family ($4 for Ansonia residents or current Friends of the Ansonia Nature Center, Inc. members). Register in advance by calling 203-736-1053.

The nature center is at 10 Deerfield Road.


This information is taken from the nature center's calendar.

Derby Middle School awarded new fitness center

DERBY >> The Derby Middle School is among three Connecticut schools that will receive a state-of-the-art fitness center for demonstrating new and innovative ways for promoting student physical activity and wellness, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy and Chairman of the National Foundation for Governors’ Fitness Councils Jake Steinfield announced Friday.

Taken from Derby Middle School website

The Derby Middle School, Washington Middle School in Meriden and the Maria Sanchez Elementary School in Hartford will each receive a state-of-the-art Live PositivelyTM Fitness Center as part of the National Champion Schools campaign, according to a press release.

The fitness centers are fully funded through public/private partnerships and do not rely on taxpayer dollars or state funding, the release states.
“By encouraging participation in physical activities in our schools, we can begin to address the widespread problem of childhood obesity,” said Malloy in a press release. “While only three schools won a new fitness center, all participating schools are winners for setting our children on the right path to fitness. I am proud to have partnered with Jake Steinfeld to bring this National Champion Schools campaign to Connecticut schools and applaud the winning schools for introducing innovative ideas for improving physical fitness.”

“Childhood obesity is not a Democrat or Republican issue, it’s a kids’ issue and Gov. Malloy has stepped up big time to help combat this growing problem,” said Jake “Body by Jake” Steinfeld in the release.
“We’re thrilled to award these three Connecticut schools with new fitness centers because they have demonstrated a passion for fitness and in living healthy a lifestyle. I know that academics and fitness go hand in hand and when you provide the schools with the tools, students will excel beyond their wildest dreams. Not only will these students be healthier, but they’ll also have increased confidence, improved self-esteem and will achieve greater academic success.”


The National Foundation’s goal is to build a nation of the fittest, healthiest kids in the world. Physical activity and exercise are shown to help prevent and treat more than 40 chronic diseases, enhance individual health and quality of life and reduce health care costs.
In schools, studies show that physical activity improves academic achievement, increases confidence and self-esteem, reduces discipline problems, cuts absenteeism and fosters better interpersonal relationships.

For more information about the National Foundation, visit http://natgovfit.org/.

Derby schools selected for fitness center

Ribbon cutting slated in October

DERBY - The National Foundation for Governors’ Fitness Councils and the state of Connecticut selected Derby Middle/High School to become a National Champion School. 

Being recognized for their school’s commitment to physical fitness and wellness, Derby’s award is a Live Positively Fitness Center. 
As a National Champion School, Derby’s students will have a new state-of-the-art center that includes strength training equipment, cardio fitness equipment and interactive exercise games.  

The National Foundation for Governors’ Fitness Council is committed to breaking the cycle of childhood obesity and providing children with a new opportunity to grow up healthy and strong.   

Studies show that regular physical activity decreases the risk of developing obesity and chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and colon cancer.   
Physical activity can reduce depression and anxiety and improve students’ academic performance and self-esteem.

Kelly McKeag, Program Director, National Foundation for Governors’ Fitness Councils stated “by installing fitness centers in schools, we are making a positive impact on the lives of children and improving their long-term well-being. 
"We recognize Derby Middle/High Schools as a leading example of a high-quality, innovative school with a clear commitment to the health and success of their students.” 

Dr. Matthew J. Conway, Jr., Superintendent of Schools, said, “We are very pleased at this news.  It is a recognition and great opportunity to build on all the great health and wellness initiatives already going on in our schools and with our community partners.”  

As part of the award The National Foundation for Governors’ Fitness Council will host a ribbon cutting celebration at our school in October.  

This is a press release from the office of the Derby Superintendent of Schools.  

Congratulations go out to Derby Public Schools for achieving this national recognition. 

Nonprofit to host fitness day at indoor stadium in Shelton

Derby hospital teaches fitness through fun

Instructor Maureen Helgren blows bubbles at the beginning of Friday’s Healthy Steps class at the Center for Cancer Care at Griffin Hospital in Derby. Patricia Villers/Register

By Patricia Villers
pvillers@nhregister.com / Twitter: @nhrvalley


DERBY— The only requirement to be part of a females-only exercise class at Griffin Hospital is a willingness to have fun.

At least that’s what it felt like Friday morning when I stepped into the conference room at the hospital’s Center for Cancer Care.

Instructor Maureen Helgren was busy blowing up beach balls and chatting as women walked in for the once a week Healthy Steps class.

I was one of 10 women who took part in the program that featured slow and almost meditative exercises. It was not what I had imagined.
We followed Helgren as she moved in a way that reminded me of my aerobics classes from decades past, only slower.

The atmosphere was relaxing and pressure free.

I was urged to go by two women in a strength-training class I attend Tuesday nights as part of a survivorship program launched late last year at Griffin Hospital.

The class is led by Dan Root, a personal trainer who specializes in working with cancer survivors. I daresay I enjoy going to it for exercise and a bit of socializing.

Helgren is an associate professor of physical therapy at Quinnipiac University and chairman of the physical therapy department. She said she has been leading the class for four years.

After she inflated the beach balls Helgren started by blowing bubbles, and having us do the same. The activity was not only fun but relaxing. In the background James Taylor was singing “Up on the Roof.”
That was one of several songs Helgren played for us as we went through a variety of slow stretches and routines.

“Grace is not needed in this class,” she said. “Everything we do is really slow on purpose.”

Helgren said the slowness is “because it’s morning and also because going slow is better for our muscles.”

Helgren follows the Lebed method of exercise, which is defined on Griffn Hospital’s website as “a movement and dance program that integrates physical therapy and psychosocial support.”

“Beneficial for women who have been diagnosed with cancer or a chronic illness. Particularly helpful for women during the post-op recovery phase after having breast cancer surgery,” the website states.

Surprisingly, some of the women I spoke with said they don’t have cancer but were there to enjoy the exercise with a friend who has had breast cancer.

Seymour resident Mary Jezierny, who has not had breast cancer, said, “When Mo (Helgren) was away we did it ourselves. We took turns being the leader.”

Now that’s dedication.

Shelton resident Terri Biasi called the class “our Friday let-it-all-out” time.

She added, “It’s a nice group. We share and support each other.”

Shelton nonprofit to host fun and fitness day

Wilderness workout planned at Ansonia nature center

ANSONIA - Tony Montarro, a certified fitness trainer, will present a free introductory session of his wilderness workout program at 5:30 p.m. April 3 at the Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center.

Using the center's grounds as an outdoor gymnasium, Montarro promises participants fun, fitness, empowerment, and a deep respect for nature as they move in it and become one with the natural world.

Improve core strength, function, primal movement, patterning and cardio health. Minimum class size is five; maximum is eight.

Fee for eight sessions of this program for adults is $65.
There will be two sessions per week, from 5:30-7 p.m. Wednesdays and 9-10:30 a.m. Saturdays.
The center is at 10 Deerfield Road.

Checks should be made payable to the Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center.

Call 203-736-1053 to register for this free introductory session.

This information is from a press release from Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center.  Photo taken from the center's website.

Shelton organization slates fitness event Sunday

Residents enjoy dance program at Wesley Heights

Dancer Gia Khalsa helps seniors keep fit while having fun / Contributed photo

SHELTON - Residents at Wesley Heights, an independent and assisted-living community at 580 Long Hill Ave., enjoy a wide range of health and wellness activities and programs.

One program that has become a favorite is “Dance Around the World” with dancer, Gia Khalsa.

Residents sway to gentle strains of Hawaii, stomp their feet to American West tunes, replicate rhythmic drumming from Africa, and shimmy to exotic strains from the Middle East.

Through this program, residents keep fit through movement, learn about other cultures, and have fun with their peers in the process.


This information is taken from a press release from Wesley Heights.

Katz named to 100 most influential people in health, fitness list

DERBY -  David L. Katz, MD, MPH, director of the Yale-Griffin Prevention Research Center, was recently named one of the 100 Most Influential People in Health and Fitness by the health website Greatist. 

An internationally renowned authority on nutrition and weight control Katz earned the 19^th spot on the list for his significant contributions in the field of health and wellness, including founding the Prevention Research Center, creating fitness and nutrition education programs for elementary school students and their parents, and for writing hundreds of medical articles in well-known publications such as O Magazine, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, Glamour, and Prevention.

In assembling the list, Greatist looked at many factors such as social reach, trends set, products created, research contributed to, media coverage, and professional certificates and degrees.

Located at Griffin Hospital, the Yale-Griffin Prevention Research Center was established in 1998 through a grant from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).  
One of 35 such centers nationwide, each of which represents an academic/community partnership, the Yale-Griffin PRC is the only center in the network based in a hospital. 
The goal of the Yale-Griffin PRC is to develop innovative approaches to health promotion and disease prevention that will directly benefit the public's health, first locally, and then nationally.

Headquartered in NYC, Greatist is a health and fitness media startup on a mission to make better choices easier for everyone.

Katz writes a weekly column for the New Haven Register. The above was taken from a press release from Griffin Hospital. 

Exercise offered for tots, adults in Shelton

SHELTON - MovingWithHope, Inc., 415 Howe Ave., is offering exercise programs in the new year.
  
PISA's Tots Multi-Sport Program is a great way to experience a variety of different sports, activities, and fun games for children to explore and interact with one another.
It is for ages 2.5-5.5. Classes are forming; registration is now open. The first class is free.

Cardio Sport 
A free Cardio Sport demo class will be held 7-8 p.m. Jan. 23 at Willie's Indoor Athletic Field, 415 Howe Ave.
Cardio Sport is a total-body conditioning initiative that integrates traditional interval training techniques with compound sports-related movements. 
This class is for both the beginner and advanced fitness enthusiast, and is designed to progressively improve your overall fitness level from top to bottom, bringing out the best of you.

The above information is from a press release from MovingWithHope, Inc., a 501c3 charitable organization. It is dedicated to providing year-round access to physical activity, better nutrition, socialization, and employment services to people with disabilities and their families. 
For information, go to www.movingwithhope.org or call 203-513-8424.

Fun Day to focus on nutrition, fitness

Event at Emmett O'Brien to feature farm market

ANSONIA - The Valley Initiative to Advance Health & Learning in Schools (VITAHLS) will host a Family Fun Day from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 21 at Emmett O’Brien Technical High School, 141 Prindle Ave.
A fun run at 8 a.m. will precede the free event. 
Family Fun Day will have a festival feel with many booths featuring games, nutritional and fitness activities, free healthy snacks and a farmer’s market.
The Family Fun Day is also designed to launch the public phase of the VITAHLS program informing parents, community leaders and the public about the goals and components of the program.

Obesity prevention
VITAHLS is a community and school-based childhood and adolescent obesity prevention program that aims to reduce the prevalence of obesity and promote health, well-being and the academic readiness of students in the Valley school districts.

The initiative was launched last school year by Griffin Hospital and the Yale-Griffin Prevention Research Center in partnership with the Ansonia, Derby, Oxford, Seymour and Shelton school districts and Emmett O’Brien Technical High School.

This school year, the initiative will introduce Activity Bursts in the Classroom (ABC) for Fitness™ and Nutrition Detectives™ to students throughout the Valley and the Family Fun Festival will allow parents to try these two fun and informative programs as well.
ABC for Fitness helps increases the amount of physical activity our students get throughout the school day, and Nutrition Detectives teaches children the five clues for selecting more nutritious food.

In a related effort to help students eat healthier, Derby schools will offer the NuVal Nutritional Food Scoring System this school year.
Starting this fall, foods sold at the schools will be labeled with a “NuVal Score,” a number between 1 and 100 that determines the nutritional value of the food. The higher the NuVal Score, the better the overall nutrition.
NuVal Scores will be found on a la carte items (such as milk, fruit, and side items such as rice and beans) and on food in all vending machines. NuVal offers students quick and simple information to help them make the right selection.


The above information is taken from a press release from Griffin Hospital.

Central Connecticut Coast YMCA offers tips on healthy eating, physical activity

Childhood obesity rates are on the rise

   September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month and the Central Connecticut Coast YMCA — a leader in youth development and healthy living—wants to help families understand the risks of childhood obesity and how to incorporate regular physical activity and healthy eating into their lives.

Childhood obesity rates have soared over the last few decades. Nationally, one in three children is obese or overweight. 

More alarming, obesity puts children at risk for chronic diseases often seen in adults, such as heart disease, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes.

“At the Central Connecticut Coast YMCA, we want families to understand the risks of childhood obesity and the lifetime benefits of eating healthy foods and enjoying physical activity,” said David Stevenson, President & CEO of the Central Connecticut Coast YMCA.  “Small changes can make a big difference when it comes to healthy living and the Y is a great place for families to get started.”

This health crisis sheds light on the need to provide children and parents with the resources and the support they need, emphasizing that small steps can lead to sustained changes to reverse the childhood obesity trend. The following tips can help families live healthier:

1. Eat Healthy: Make water the drink of choice (supplemented by 100 percent fruit juices and low-fat milk) and have fruits and vegetables available at every meal. Snack time should include foods that contain whole grains and lean protein instead of saturated and trans fats.
2. Play Every Day/Go Outside: Kids and adults should have at least an hour a day of unstructured play outside (when possible) and break a sweat at least three times a week by getting 20 minutes or more of physical activity.
3. Get Together: At least once a day families should dine together, with kids involved in meal preparation and clean up. In addition, adults should spend one-on-one time each day with their kids.
4. Reduce Screen Time: Time spent in front of a television, computer, cell phone and video game should be limited to two hours per day.
5. Sleep Well: Kids and adults need to keep a regular sleep schedule—10-12 hours per night for kids and seven to eight hours for adults.

The Central Connecticut Coast YMCA offers many programs to help children and families remain physically active and eat healthy.  To learn more visit cccymca.org, call 203-777-9622 or stop by any branch. 

  The Central Connecticut Coast Y is based in downtown New Haven with 11 Y branches in Greater New Haven and Greater Bridgeport. It also operates YMCA Camp Hi-Rock, a 1,000 acre residential and day camp in Mt. Washington, Mass.

The above was taken from a release from Donna Gill Lisitano, marketing and communications director, Central Connecticut Coast YMCA.

Nature, exercise to combine in fitness classes

    ANSONIA - The Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center will offer a new series of fitness programs starting at 5:30 p.m. Sept. 5.
    Tony Montarro, a fitness instructor with 20 years experience, will lead the classes.
    Montarrro promises participants fun, laughter, exercise and a deep respect for nature as the group moves with it, in it, and becomes one with nature.
    Without using the typical modern equipment join others as the park becomes a gymnasium where participants will improve cardiovascular, strength, balance, flexibility and energy levels.
    The minimum class size is five and the maximum is eight.
    There will be two sessions per week for four weeks, from 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m. Wednesdays and from 9-11 a.m. Saturdays.
    This class is geared for adults and the first class is free. Participants are asked to bring a towel and water.
    Cost is $65 for the eight sessions. Checks should be made payable to the Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center.
    The nature center is at 10 Deerfield Road.