MJCC fitness programs build healthy lives

By DEBORAH MOON

article created on: 2009-01-01T00:00:00

Lauren Botney, 53, is just one of many Portlanders who have found a new, healthier lifestyle at the Mittleman Jewish Community Center.

The center’s fitness offerings, have helped many members achieve personal goals in weight-loss, fitness level and overall health.

“Every day, we see how our many fitness and wellness offerings transform lives here at the MJCC,” said MJCC Chief Executive Officer Lisa Horowitz.

Botney began working out at the MJCC in September 2007 after knee surgery.

“Due to prior health issues, I had never been able to really get into a good workout pattern and I was ready to take off some pounds,” said Botney. “I started training twice a week with Jennifer Felberg—trainer extraordinaire. She helped me put together both weight training and aerobics combinations.”

In just over a year, Botney has lost 27 pounds and said she has made major improvements in balance.

“It was a bit more but I was kept out of the gym lately due to a variety of reasons,” said Botney. “The main difference this time around (with Jen) as opposed to past, failed efforts, is that even after a hiatus, I get going again. When I can’t make the gym, I still work out with the ball and on the treadmill at home or get on my bike.”

In addition to her personal training sessions, Botney uses the center’s weights and exercise machines.

“Jen is the one helping to keep the workout fresh,” she said. “First off, she is truly an expert--having training in multiple disciplines and also being helpful in dieting tips and positive encouragement when I sometimes got frustrated. She incorporates weights with the appropriate reps and knows how to make adjustments, when for example, I was having a problem with my knee. Besides being so knowledgeable, she makes it all so much fun that I hate to miss a session with her.”

“Just when I’m comfortable with my routine, Jen will change to keep everything fresh and to ‘trick’ the body into making the desired, positive changes,” Botney added.

Botney said she enjoys the center partially because it has a more intimate feel than many mega-gyms in the area. She said the lower cost of personal training is also a benefit. By buying 10 one-hour sessions, she pays just $45 per hour, which she said compares to about $70 or more at many local gyms.

While she’s come a long way, Botney said she still has goals to meet.

“I wanted to go into my 50s being fit and I still have the goal of getting back to my ‘wedding’ weight,” she said. “I anticipate being able to get there this year. For the first time, I have abs—a 6-pack developing. I never had that even in my younger, ‘skinny’ days.”

Botney said she recommends taking advantage of the MJCC’s free trial session to see if they have a connection with a specific trainer. While some people use that session to set up their own exercise routine, Botney said she thinks continuing to work with a trainer provides many benefits. She said over time a trainer can develop and adjust a routine for each person.

For more information on fitness offerings at the MJCC, call the center at 503-244-0111.