Community members spoke and staff at Betsie Hosick Health & Fitness Center listened. Now youth in the area have a place for fun and fitness in the new year.
Last year, the center launched a survey of members and non-members to learn how the facility could better serve the community. Responses were resounding about the need for a youth-friendly space.
The fitness center team worked hard in 2018 to renovate space to offer a dedicated room for youth and families. The space, designated “the loft,” is located on the second floor of the fitness center. It is filled with bouncy mats, games, activities, and a 30-foot chalk wall.
“We are fortunate to work with some really talented instructors who are passionate about youth. I love the energy youth bring to the center and am looking forward to watching these programs grow,” said Stephanie Williams, fitness center manager. “We’ve worked hard to update our child policy, too, allowing youth 5 and older to participate in any of our fitness classes with their parents.”
Families are encouraged and welcome to use the space to burn off energy or meet friends for a game. In addition to this “open gym” concept, the center also will offer scheduled programs. During these times, parent supervision is not required and parents can enjoy their own class or workouts.
“Children’s fitness should be a consequence of play, and integrate skill building, critical thinking, social interaction, imagination, and exploration,” said Arthur Adkins, certified athletic trainer, who developed the facility’s youth program.
Each Thursday from 5 - 6:30 p.m. credentialed instructors at the facility will offer semi-structured, supervised activities in a fun, supportive environment.
“Depending on the interests of the group each evening, we might play a game of capture the flag or kickball, while other nights we might make an obstacle course or play fitness scrabble,” Adkins said. “We want this class to be dynamic and adapt to the needs of the kids participating. For those not interested in whatever activity is chosen, there’s plenty of activities, games, and a giant chalk wall they can explore individually.”
The new space was made possible by the Paul Oliver Memorial Hospital Auxiliary’s fundraising efforts through the Tri Up North Triathlon – a bike, paddle, and run event in Frankfort intended to encourage community wellness and support related projects across the community.
“We can’t thank the Paul Oliver Memorial Hospital Auxiliary enough for their support of this transition. Their contributions allowed us to purchase new equipment and make the space upstairs more youth-friendly,” Williams said.
The facility will also offer half off six- and 12-month family memberships during the month of January.
More information on Betsie Hosick Health & Fitness Center can be found at munsonhealthcare.org/betsiehosickhealthandfitnesscenter or by calling 231-352-9661.