Residents Resolve to ‘Get Fit’ at Mount Vernon RECenter

Thirty Mount Vernon residents headed to the Mount Vernon RECenter to tackle the center’s “Get Fit” challenge yesterday.

"With the New Year, people are eager to get into shape and be healthy," said Josh Colman, the RECenter manager. "We wanted to open up the classes so they can try things they've never done before."

Participants started the day with a 50-minute jog over a one-mile loop of the Mount Vernon Trail. Then the group spent 30 minutes on the extreme step challenge, stepping up and down from the center's benches.

After a short break, those members left standing chose four 20-minute 'sample' classes and ended the day with an open swim in the indoor pool.

"Thirty people for our first time is a great turn out," Colman said." We're looking at doing this more frequently—at least once a year, if not every few months."

By the end of the challenge, some had exercised for over three hours, but most chose to complete only a few of the activities. Those who completed all challenges were awarded a 'six-pack' of guest passes.

Rhonda Brown and Steve Sak won personal training sessions with RECenter staff.

"It was fun, although grueling and intense," Brown said. "It was a good opportunity to get a sampling of all the classes offered."

Out of all the attendees, Colman estimated about 75 percent were women, and nearly all of them were between the age of 25 and 50.

"There was a fair number of folks who came out for it," volunteer Jane said. "I thought it was a success for us and for the people who enjoyed themselves."

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