Fitness Newsletter
April 2025 Newsletter
Keep current with BBFC's event offerings and daily activities. Our community spirit is strong, and we are on a mission to improve the quality and quantity of lives!
Finding Calm in the Chaos: Why Stress Management Matters for Your Health
In today’s fast-moving world—even here in the heart of southern Louisiana—it’s easy to overlook the toll that everyday stress takes on our bodies and minds. From work demands and financial pressure to caring for family and keeping up with responsibilities, stress can quietly chip away at our well-being.
But here’s something important to remember: Stress is not just a mental game. It’s a full-body experience. And left unmanaged, it can lead to serious health problems.
How Stress Affects You
When you’re under stress, your body releases hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. In small bursts, that’s not a bad thing—it’s your body’s natural response to challenges. But when stress lingers day after day, it can:
- Raise your blood pressure
- Disrupt your sleep
- Weaken your immune system
- Increase your risk for heart disease and diabetes
- Lead to anxiety, depression, and burnout
And in communities like ours, where folks are often juggling a lot with limited resources, these effects can hit even harder.
Movement is Medicine
The good news? You have powerful tools right here at Bayou Bend Fitness Center.
Exercise is one of the most effective ways to manage stress naturally. Just 30 minutes of physical activity can:
- Improve your mood
- Help you sleep better
- Boost your energy
- Reduce anxiety
- Strengthen your immune response
And it doesn’t take an intense workout. A walk on the treadmill, a dip in the pool, or a stretch session in yoga class can work wonders. The key is consistency—just show up for yourself.
5 Ways to Stress Less This Month
- Start small. Go for a walk. Stretch in the morning. It adds up.
- Breathe. Take a few quiet minutes each day to slow your breath and settle your thoughts.
- Unplug. Limit your screen time and spend time outdoors or with loved ones.
- Prioritize sleep. Aim for 7–8 hours of quality rest each night.
- Move with purpose. Exercise is not just about looks—it’s about life.
At Bayou Bend, your health matters to us—body, mind, and spirit. Let this be the season you start prioritizing your peace. Because when you take care of yourself, you can handle anything life brings your way.
Let’s stress less, move more, and grow stronger together.
April Wellness Focus: Strong Bones & Better Balance – The Foundation of Lifelong Fitness
As we age, two key areas of health become increasingly important: bone strength and balance. Together, they form the foundation for staying active, independent, and injury-free—whether you're chasing after grandkids, gardening, or hitting a group fitness class here at Bayou Bend Fitness Center (BBFC).
Why Bone Health Matters
Our bones do more than support our bodies—they store essential minerals and protect our organs. But around age 30, we naturally begin to lose bone density. Without action, this can lead to osteopenia or osteoporosis, increasing the risk of fractures from even minor falls. The good news? Weight-bearing exercise is one of the most effective ways to maintain and even build bone mass. Walking, strength training, dancing, and resistance workouts all stimulate bone growth and keep your skeleton strong.
The Balance Connection
Good balance helps prevent falls—the leading cause of serious injury among older adults. It’s also a key part of confident movement at any age. Balance tends to decline over time, but like muscle, it can be improved with consistent training.
Try adding these to your weekly routine:
- Tai Chi or yoga: Both build core strength and body awareness
- Single-leg exercises: Like standing on one foot while brushing your teeth
- Stability tools: Use balance pads or BOSU balls under supervision
- Functional movements: Squats, lunges, and step-ups help mimic real-life actions
Fuel for Healthy Bones
Your diet also plays a role in bone health. Make sure you’re getting:
- Calcium from dairy, leafy greens, or fortified foods
- Vitamin D from sunlight or supplements
- Protein to support muscle and bone repair
Let’s Keep You on Solid Ground
At BBFC, we’re committed to helping you build strength from the inside out. This month, ask a trainer about bone-boosting workouts or try one of our classes that improve stability and coordination. Investing in your bones and balance today means more freedom to move, play, and live fully tomorrow.
Want a personalized fitness plan? Stop by the fitness desk or speak to one of our certified trainers to get started!
BBFC Member Spotlight
Debra Manuel
A Journey to Better Health
Meet Debra, a dedicated member of Bayou Bend Fitness Center! At 63 years young, she is a proud mother of three and grandmother of four. Her health journey has been nothing short of inspiring.
In late 2023, Debra underwent open-heart surgery, followed by a stent placement in early 2024. She has also faced multiple shoulder surgeries over the years. Knowing that regular exercise was key to her recovery, Debra chose Bayou Bend Fitness Center for its indoor walking track, allowing her to stay active regardless of the weather.
Since joining BBFC, Debra has noticed incredible improvements in her health. Her diabetes and blood pressure have improved, she no longer experiences shortness of breath, and most importantly, her heart is getting stronger every day. She continues to focus on her goals of weight loss and muscle strengthening, proving that perseverance pays off.
Her favorite quote? "Never give up!" – and she certainly lives by it.
Debra, we are so grateful to have you as part of our BBFC family. Keep up the amazing work!
"Stronger Together: Fitness, Fun, and Community in Every Class!"
BBFC Group Exercise
Whether you’re looking to improve cardiovascular health, build strength, or simply have fun while working out, group exercise classes offer a dynamic and supportive environment to help you reach your fitness goals.
Our professional BBFC team is here to help you with any questions or concerns.
Our new trainers, Camille, Nate, and Alonzo bring expertise, energy, and a passion for helping you achieve your goals—whether you're looking to build strength, improve endurance, or enhance overall wellness.
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Certified & Knowledgeable – Bringing top industry credentials and experience.
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Motivated & Goal-Driven – Committed to pushing you toward success.
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Personalized Coaching – Tailored training plans to fit your needs.
Come meet our new trainers joining Jodie in the training department and take your fitness journey to the next level! Book a session today!
Let’s Get Outside and Move as a Community!
BBFC Community Ruck Club
Rucking is a walking or hiking workout done while carrying a weighted backpack or vest. Originally a military training method, it’s now popular among hikers and fitness enthusiasts for its full-body benefits.
Why Ruck?
🔥 Boosts Cardiovascular Health – Increases heart rate and calorie burn.
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Builds Strength & Endurance – Strengthens the back, shoulders, and core.
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Improves Balance & Coordination – Adjusting to added weight enhances stability.
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Develops Mental Toughness – Teaches resilience by pushing through fatigue.
Rucking is a simple, low-impact way to build strength and endurance—just grab a pack and get moving!
KEEPING SCORE IS A GOOD THING!
Cooper Quest is based on Dr. Kenneth Cooper's 8 Steps to Get Cooperized™ and encompasses six key health areas built on Cardiovascular Fitness as the foundation.
The COOPER QUEST score is comprised of five key health assessments: Cardiovascular Fitness, Blood Work, Body Composition, Stress Management, and Functional Fitness. Upon completing your initial assessments, you can earn a total score (max of 100), the area needing the most attention is identified. Actionable goals are identified, and resources are available to address fitness, nutrition, and stress management to guide healthy change.
Call the fitness desk TODAY to schedule at (337) 471-1213.
New Member Orientations
Have you scheduled an orientation to familiarize yourself with our fitness floor equipment?! It doesn't matter if you've been a member for months (or even a year)! Take advantage of time with our staff and learn more about our Technogym equipment and what it can do for you! Call the fitness desk TODAY to schedule at (337) 471-1213.
Your Virtual Fitness Partner
Going on a trip? No problem! With iFIT Virtual Training, you can keep up with your workouts anytime, anywhere—no gym required. Whether you’re in a hotel, at the beach, or in your living room, iFIT offers:
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On-the-Go Workouts – Stream bodyweight, yoga, and HIIT sessions from your phone, tablet, or laptop.
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Train Anywhere – Explore scenic locations with guided outdoor runs, hikes, and walks.
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Minimal Equipment Needed – Many workouts require just your bodyweight or resistance bands.
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Stay Accountable – Track your progress and stay motivated with expert coaching.
No matter where life takes you, iFIT keeps you moving so you can stay consistent with your fitness goals! Try it next time you travel!
Activate your FREE account today!
- Connect to iFIT using the QR code to the right.
- Add your:
- First name'Last name
- Phone number
- Birthdate
- Your "user code" will be the last four digits of your phone number.
- Ask BBFC staff for help, if needed! :)
Remember to Book Your Pool Experience!
Don't hesitate to stop by or call the front desk to book your lane at
(337) 413-5106. We appreciate you and want to make certain you have a great experience each time you train at BBFC!
BBFC Kids Fit
2025
As children return to school, the days will be full. The entire family needs to redefine routines. Remaining consistent in YOUR training time alleviates stress and anxiety. It also allows your child time to unwind. Take advantage and make time for the family to train! Reserve your child’s spot in KIDS FIT today by signing up at the front desk or by calling 337-413-5106.
Mondays & Wednesdays | 4:45 pm - 5:45 pm
BBFC Kids Club
2025
Take time for YOU! Let our amazing KIDS CLUB Instructors watch over your little one while you find some time to train. Whether you are looking for a low-intensity to higher-intensity class, we have options to keep you on track with your wellness journey. Reserve your child’s spot today by signing up at the front desk or by calling 337-413-5106.
Mornings | Mon - Fri 8:00 am - 1:00 pm
Evenings | Mon - Thu 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Saturdays | 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
More Topics for YOU
Our Members Matter at BBFC!
This month's theme is New Beginnings. Find valuable information below to further the conversation - making healthy food choices is vital for maintaining overall well-being, supporting recovery from injuries, boosting energy levels, and preventing chronic illnesses.
Negative Tolls Chronic Stress Can Have on Your Health
Managing stress is a crucial step to Get Cooperized and lead a healthy life. Riva Rahl, MD, Cooper Clinic Platinum Physician discusses the danger of stress and how to manage it.
Lifestyle or Genes: Which Matters More?
If disease runs in your family health history, preventing that illness may seem like an uphill battle. But don’t lose hope! Cooper Clinic Preventive Medicine Physician Kim Allen, MD, discusses the lifestyle changes you can make to improve your health and wellness.
Ground-Based Movement Flow
Carla Sottovia, PhD, Director of Fitness and Personal Training Education at Cooper Fitness Center, showcases four ground-based movement exercises to help improve mobility, flexibility, strength and brain health.
Safe Exercises for People With Arthritis
Looking for ways to manage arthritis at home? Daniel Montes, Professional Fitness Trainer at Cooper Fitness Center, shares range-of-motion and strength exercises to help relieve pain and stiffness.
Does the Order You Eat Food Matter?
Food combining or sequential eating has been a popular topic in the nutrition realm for years. The concept continues to resurface with claims that these practices can improve digestion, increase metabolism to promote weight loss and provide more energy.
Combating the Side Effects of Menopause With Nutrition
The changes that come with menopause are inevitable. Learn how nutrition and other non-hormonal therapies can help alleviate common symptoms such as weight gain and hot flashes. Cooper Clinic Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Amber Grapevine discusses the topic.
WE NEED OUR MEMBERS!
Member Survey
We want YOUR feedback!
BBFC appreciates our members, and we want to know what YOU think! Complete the short survey found in the Mywellness app.
BBFC Fitness Favorites
Discover this month’s top fitness picks, curated by none other than your General Manager, Kirstine Campbell. Whether she’s on the road, breaking a sweat, or simply unwinding, Kirstine finds inspiration in every moment. Podcasts and audiobooks fuel her personal and professional growth, while music is her go-to for re-centering and finding motivation. Dive into her selections, where passion for self-improvement meets a love for rhythm.
Favorite Workout Playlist
Revamp Your Workout with the Perfect Playlist!
Feeling a little “meh” about your workout lately? Music might be the magic you’re missing. The right playlist can pump up your energy, push you through those last few reps, and even help you cool down and recover with ease.
So what’s your go-to jam when it’s time to get in the zone—high-energy pop, gritty rock, smooth R&B, or something with a little southern soul?
If you’re ready to switch things up, we’ve got a hot tip:
🔥 Check out the “Hot Country” playlist on Spotify.
It’s been a total game-changer for everything from lifting to lunges, and yes—even recovery walks.
🎧 Turn it on. Turn it up. Let us know your favorite tracks!
Podcast Pick of the Month
Fuel Your Mind While You Move.
In this powerhouse episode of the Huberman Lab podcast, renowned neuroscientist Dr. Andrew Huberman sits down with Pavel Tsatsouline, the man who brought kettlebell training to the U.S. and is widely considered one of the world’s leading strength experts.
Together, they break down the science—and the simplicity—behind building real, lasting fitness about building strength without injury, the most effective way to improve endurance, why flexibility is a trainable skill, not a fixed trait, and how training changes with age—and how to adapt.
This episode blends cutting-edge neuroscience with time-tested strength principles. Whether you’re a total beginner or a lifelong lifter, you’ll walk away with practical takeaways that can change how you move and train.
Favorite Recent Read
A good book can change your body and your mind.
Small steps can lead to big change—and “Atomic Habits” shows you exactly how. This easy-to-read bestseller is packed with practical tips to build better habits, break unhealthy ones, and create a life that aligns with your goals. It’s a favorite among trainers, therapists, and everyday people looking to level up their routine—without burning out.
Member Testimonials
We would LOVE to hear YOUR story. Every day, BBFC staff are blessed enough to share in just a little bit of your life. You share your challenges, triumphs, and interests that make you "uniquely you". We'd love to share your testimonial. Please ask a staff member for a form or access the form at the link below. Tell us how BBFC has made a difference in your life. It would mean so much to us.
Testimonial
Let's Talk!
We would LOVE to hear from you! :)
CONTACT
Member Services:
(337) 413-5106
Corporate Partnerships:
(337)-907-6767
membership@bayoubendhealth.org
HOURS (Seasonal)
Monday - Thursday: 5:00 am - 9:00 pm
Friday: 5:00 am - 7:00 pm
Saturday: 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sunday: 7:00 am - 2:00 pm