Local author unveils fitness guide at Libertyville's First Friday

Libertyville’s First Friday on Aug. 5 brought a unique opportunity to meet Nancy Hildebrandt, owner of Pinnacle Fitness in Libertyville.

Hildebrandt appeared at The Runner’s Edge to talk about her recently published book “Stronger Than Ever.” The primary purpose of the book, Hildebrandt said, is to help people manage their health at all stages of life.

“I’m not into fitness for the glory,” said Hildebrandt, a cancer survivor. “I want to help people feel better, feel better in their skin, feel better in their lives and be able to do the things they love to do that otherwise they may be held back physically, so that’s why I’m in fitness. As far as the book, I can reach more people using this tool.”

Hildebrandt said she even offered a coupon in the back of the book for any locals to try out Pinnacle Fitness.

“Even if it’s not the place for you, you’ve at least started the journey,” she said.

Also, with the book being sold nationally, Hildebrandt said she hopes to encourage people throughout the country to pursue their individual fitness goals.

Hildebrandt said she worked hard to make the book as conversational and encouraging as possible.

“Hopefully the book will make them (clients) more comfortable in what to expect. It even goes into what to wear to a session,” she said.

“Stronger Than Ever” also offers sample workouts and explains the differences between the functional equipment.

Dozens gathered at The Runner’s Edge throughout the evening to speak with Hildebrandt about this simple fitness guide.

Although anyone can benefit from “Stronger Than Ever,” Hildebrandt said her target audience is older adults. She said she believes that many fitness programs for older adults can be ineffective because there is too much repetition and not enough variety. Functional fitness, she explained, uses shorter intervals of a variety of exercises meant for elevating the metabolism and getting a whole body workout, also while saving time (her sessions can run as short as 30 minutes).

Hildebrandt’s main advice at the end of the evening is to do what makes you happy.