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Wellness Center to feature unique way to get fit

3 min read

A better and unique way to become fit is being offered by The Wellness Center of Cape Coral and it’s one exercise technique which has been very effective across the country.

The Lee Health Wellness Center, at 609 SE 13th Court in Cape Coral, will offer private and small group lessons on the Pilates reformer on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

“This is not something that you typically find at a fitness center and we are very excited to have the opportunity to bring it to our Wellness Center,” said Member Service Assistant and Group Fitness Instructor Cheryl Neal of The Wellness Center. “Here at the Wellness Center, we are always seeking ways to improve our services, education, health and wellness of our community and members. We are also continuing to further improve our clinical integration within the Health System and the community.

“We are able to do this through adding a Pilates program coordinated with a highly educated and experienced Pilates instructor.”

Leading the classes will be Jan Chapple, who is a Registered Nurse with advanced graduate work in Management and Women’s Health. She is also certified in Pilates and in GYROTONIC(R) Expansion System. She is Z-Health Certified on all levels with focus on joint mobility, visual, vestibular and balance work.

“Any age group will benefit from Pilates, from middle school to 95 years old,” Chapple said. “Using (Pilates) equipment assists individuals with optimal form, balance and alignment.”

Chapple has a Pilates reformer and a Pilates Exo chair for her clients to use. The Pilates reformer consists of a platform which moves back and forth along a carriage. It has a spring-resistant for toning muscles safely and in proper alignment, Neal added.

“Individual sessions on the reformer and/or exo chair will be customized to the individual needs of the client, ranging from gentle stretching and strengthening to challenging hard work,” Chapple said. “The focus is to set up a program that feels good, is beneficial and keeps people safe, yet progressively challenged. The various exercises range from slow to high speed depending on ability and desired outcomes.

“Toning, injury prevention or healing, flexibility and moving with more ease in whatever activities you practice is the desired outcome.”

Chapple is also offering small group classes using other Pilates and fitness equipment to keep variety and her clients active.

The benefits of Pilates are vast, including building core strength, long lean muscles and a “mind-body connection using breath and form to move with resistance through springs.”

The exercise also increases spine strength and flexibility and increases mobilization of joints, as well as builds stamina for athletic performance and improving posture and alignment.

Chapple is giving a 50-percent discount for the first session and individuals don’t have to be a member.

The Lee Health Wellness Center offers plenty and is open to the public. It has a full aquatics program with two indoor pools and offers group exercise and personal training.

To learn more about the Pilates program or any other program The Wellness Center offers, call 239-424-3220.