I can't count the number of times people have asked me this question since we introduced Nia here at FGH&F. At first I just pointed them to the sign we had posted on the counter (never bothering to read it myself). But once the sign was gone, it was time for me to find out a little more about the mysterious goings-on in the Nia class.
It turns out that Nia, technically "Neuro-Muscular Integrative Action," is not a recent phenomenon; it was established in the early 1980s by two fitness instructors that wanted to create a holistic exercise program for all ages and ability levels. Debbie and Carlos Rosas envisioned connecting the whole person, mind as well as body, in the pursuit of fitness by emphasizing self-awareness, not just activity, in Nia. Since its advent, this innovative exercise system has spread across the country, gaining recognition everywhere for its effectiveness (including an article in the Oregonian a few years ago).
So we know where it comes from, but what is Neuro-Muscular Integrative Action? Well, to begin with, it is different for everyone; Nia combines a bunch of ingredients in varying degrees depending on the class, the teacher, but most importantly, the individual participant (remember that its primary goal is fitness through self-awareness). Many different styles of dance movement are involved, from modern dance to traditional African and Middle Eastern dance, as well as martial arts training such as Tae Kwon Do and Aikido, Tai Chi, and the Alexander Technique, and Yoga. In each case, unlike most classes, its not about remembering complex choreography or copying the teacher: participants are encouraged to move at their own pace and alter the movements so that they feel natural, which makes these classes great for all ages and fitness levels. We've all heard that "no pain, no gain," but with Nia, it's "no pain, all gain" because the movements are comfortable yet still help to build strength and cardiovascular endurance.
Nia came to FGH&F thanks to Laurie Bass, a black belt Nia instructor who has been teaching Nia in the area since 2003. Our very own "Nia Diva" is the program's most passionate advocate, which makes her classes all the more interesting and invigorating. You can find her here in the Group Fitness Room on Wednesdays and Fridays from 11 am - noon. During the month of July, we will also be holding a weekly Nia Workshop for an hour and a half every friday night starting the day after tomorrow!
Look, if the facts on paper didn't do much to convince you, good; Nia is something you really have to be a part of to get it. So come in and check out a class or a workshop this month: your body and mind will definitely thank you.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Avoiding Summer Couch-Potatoization
FGH&F Parents,
Summer is finally here (though the weather around here is still all over the place!), and that means kids at home with nothing to do. Well, they can watch tv. Or play video games. Maybe they'll head outside while it isn't too hot, but once we really get into the summer heat, that won't be an option anymore.
We're here to help you make sure that your kids don't get rooted to the couch. Going to the gym can be a great way for families to have fun and connect while also getting fit. They make great workout buddies (it's always better to exercise with a buddy!), you can show them new exercises, and you can get them out of the house for a while. Did I mention that we have an excellent air-conditioning system for those hot summer days?
Now let's get down to the nitty-gritty: FGH&F is offering a major discount on 10-visit punchcards for students under the age of 18 to come in and work out: only $50! That's $5 per trip to the gym (half-off the usual guest pass of $10 per visit). It's a good deal, but the real challenge isn't going to be the money: getting them in here is the hardest part.
You could reason with your kids, tell them how much fun you have at the gym. Or you could explain the benefits of exercise and staying fit in combating obesity and other health problems. Or you could just threaten to ground them. One way or another, though, I'm sure that you can get those kids out of the house...
Have a healthy and fit summer!
P.S. Feel free to post comments on our blog!
Summer is finally here (though the weather around here is still all over the place!), and that means kids at home with nothing to do. Well, they can watch tv. Or play video games. Maybe they'll head outside while it isn't too hot, but once we really get into the summer heat, that won't be an option anymore.
We're here to help you make sure that your kids don't get rooted to the couch. Going to the gym can be a great way for families to have fun and connect while also getting fit. They make great workout buddies (it's always better to exercise with a buddy!), you can show them new exercises, and you can get them out of the house for a while. Did I mention that we have an excellent air-conditioning system for those hot summer days?
Now let's get down to the nitty-gritty: FGH&F is offering a major discount on 10-visit punchcards for students under the age of 18 to come in and work out: only $50! That's $5 per trip to the gym (half-off the usual guest pass of $10 per visit). It's a good deal, but the real challenge isn't going to be the money: getting them in here is the hardest part.
You could reason with your kids, tell them how much fun you have at the gym. Or you could explain the benefits of exercise and staying fit in combating obesity and other health problems. Or you could just threaten to ground them. One way or another, though, I'm sure that you can get those kids out of the house...
Have a healthy and fit summer!
P.S. Feel free to post comments on our blog!
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