Starting the New Year the right way

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Laura R. McFarlane
  • 17th Training Wing Public Affairs
GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Although I don't follow with tradition and make a New Year's resolution, when I heard about the Resolution Solution Aerobathon hosted by Mathis Fitness Center Jan. 11, I thought the aerobathon could be cool. So Saturday afternoon I found myself doing some Zumba, trying kinetic exercises and stretching during the yoga.

With four 20-minute classes, the aerobathon gave you a chance to try a small sampling of the classes offered at the base fitness centers and it turned out Zumba was the big seller. When we started the Zumba class we only had four people but the class grew to nine as we continued. Participation after that ranged from three to five at the classes.

I had a blast with Zumba and it was by far my favorite class. The rhythm and speed keeps it fun and interesting and it reminded me of how much I enjoy Zumba and should go to the classes they have on Mondays and Wednesdays at 4:45 p.m.

The program moved on to a "Rev" cycling class but I decided to sit that one out. I joined up again for the kinetics. I was unfamiliar with kinetics which turned out to be similar to circuit training with most of the exercises using the individuals' body weight while keeping the heart rate elevated. I have to say I did not enjoy kinetics as much as I enjoyed Zumba but I saw how it can be a really good work out and I encourage people to give it a try. You never know, you might find you like it.

While the Zumba and yoga classes utilized on hand instructors, the cycling and kinetics classes featured the virtual training program call "Fitness on Request."

Similar to exercise videos at home, the "Fitness on Request" kiosk features a virtual instructor and two assistants who perform the exercises at different skill levels allowing you to workout at your own pace. One of the great things about the kiosk is that there are 30 workout videos, the equipment you need for the exercises is right there and all for the great price to you of zero dollars. It is open to service members, retirees and family members and is just one of the many benefits to using the fitness center.

We finished the aerobathon with yoga and while I'm not a fan of yoga, Saturday reconfirmed that, it's a good way to end 60 minutes of intense workouts. Overall I enjoyed the experience and am looking forward to next year.