On March 17, 2013, Fit For Life Fitness Center and Physical Therapy Clinic on St. Pete Beach celebrated its 10th anniversary. This unique business was the dream of its owner, Carol Hollenbeck, MSPT. Originally intended for adults 40 and older, it was modeled after a fitness center in Albuquerque, NM, called 50 and Fit. Hollenbeck, whose specialty is geriatrics, wanted to establish the gym as a mature adult fitness center.
Over time, however, younger clients have been able to join, with guests as young as 12 now allowed with a parent or guardian. A large part of the clientele is still over 40, with many being senior citizens. These members often are members of the Silver Sneakers® Fitness Program designed for Medicare-eligible adults and for Group Retirees.
Involved in the fitness industry since college, it was while a home health Physical Therapist that Hollenbeck noticed that patients who led active lives or exercised regularly recovered faster and more completely from their injury, surgery, or illness. Patients who led sedentary lives often did not recover as well. Focusing on education, her goal is to help the older adult exercise safely and properly so they will gain maximum benefit from their exercise program and stick with it.
Senior citizens appreciate the comfortable atmosphere of the gym. Soft music, anything goes]attire, and a non-intimidating atmosphere makes it a good place for even first time gym users to feel at ease. A full orientation to the equipment and classes that welcome beginners also help newcomers and those who have been away from the gym for a while.
The combination of fitness center and physical therapy clinic is unique in the area. Both of which concentrate on the 5 categories of wellness: endurance, strength, flexibility, balance, and posture. Patients have the option of continuing to exercise after therapy, improving their long-term carryover and return to maximum function.
Physical Therapy patients spend their entire appointment one-on-one with Hollenbeck, who has over 20 years’ experience as a therapist. She is currently completing her Doctorate in Physical Therapy at the University of Southern Florida.
Located at 575 75th Avenue, Fit For Life is a full gym with cardio equipment, free weights, classes, and personal trainers available. Trainers are able to customize programs for clients of any age or ability and can include post-PT rehab. Hours are: 7 am to 7pm Monday through Thursday, 7am to 6pm Friday, and 8am to Noon on Saturday. Get a day pass to try the facility. It’s the perfect way to start on the road to being Fit For Life.
Stop in, call 727. 367.0075, or visit the website at www.iamfitforlife.com.
By Mary Jakubowski
Date: June 2013