No more excuses

REGION — Summer is here. That, frighteningly enough for many of us, means the advent of bathing suit weather. We tend to put on that “winter weight” with ease. When it comes time to shedding it for tank tops, shorts, skirts and, of course, bathing suits, it may take us a little longer than we like.

As I said, summer is here. No more excuses. I have reviewed a variety of local establishments that offer summertime fitness programs that you can enroll in, so that there will be no horror when you finally do put on that cute or tight-fitting summer outfit.

The Himalayan Institute’s Main Street center, located in downtown Honesdale, PA is a yoga super center. Yoga is taught there for every level, novice to expert. Yoga is not only an exercise that slims the body, it also helps practitioners let go of stress, boosts their energy, improves cardiovascular endurance and increases muscular strength and flexibility. In recent years, the public has learned that yoga is good for the brain as well. Yet another benefit of yoga is that it restores a sense of tranquility and balance.

The Himalayan Institute’s class schedule may be accessed by visiting himalayaninstitute.org or calling 570/253-5551, ext. 3403.

Body, Mind and Spirit has developed a Wellness Center in its building on Plank Road in Mongaup Valley, NY. They are dedicated to “promoting a commitment to well-being.” The new Wellness Center offers holistic chiropractic, psychotherapy, massage, laser therapy for smoking cessation and weight management reflexology, nutritional counseling and Reiki. The alternatives to normal exercise are targeted to promote well being for both the body and the mind. Body, Mind and Spirit can be reached by calling 845/583-6151.

Traditional forms of exercise for weight loss, such as weight lifting, aerobics classes, and jogging, are effective too. Koles Aerobics and Fitness in Indian Orchard, PA offers a wide variety of activities in its classes, held in a new, state-of-the-art facility. The indoor rubberized track spans the length of the huge weight room. Spinning, a cycling class that is one of the newest rages, is also available at the fitness center. The club provides saunas for relaxation after a workout.

To learn more about Koles’ aerobic classes or for membership rates, call 570/253-8766.

Thirty-minute women’s exercise establishments have recently made a name for themselves. They include cardiovascular training, weight training and stretching in only a half an hour. A series of “stations” are set up around a room and every thirty seconds, women are prompted to move to either a cardiovascular square or a hydraulic weight machine. The idea is to combine both cardiovascular and weight training to slim and tone your body. Places such as Figures in Jeffersonville, NY and Curves in Honesdale, PA, and Monticello, NY, Liberty, NY, Lord’s Valley, PA and Port Jervis, NY are quickly popping up in many towns. In only 30 minutes, how can you go wrong? To find the one closest to you, an online search is your best bet.

So, ladies and gents, make the commitment and make it quick. Blue skies and warm temperatures have already graced us with their presence. It’s time to get those wintered bodies out and moving.