By: John D’Onofrio
Visit Monkey Bar Gymnasium on any Monday, Wednesday, or Friday and you are bound to hear the peals of small children punctured by
percussive footsteps on the wooden floor. Audible beneath the din is the voice of Christine Ellison, instructor for the class, “Family and Me”. The class provides an opportunity for parents, especially mothers and mothers-to-be, to work out in a structured program while having their kids play in the same space.
A Certified Natural Trainer for two years, and herself a mother of two children, Christine brings both professional acumen and personal experience
to her role as trainer. Her program includes the Monkey Bar Gymnasium’s core strength approach to fitness; that by tuning the core of the body,
or more familiarly the torso, strength and balance in the extremities can more readily be achieved. A few of the exercises include the broad jump, jump rope, and burpees. What Christine is also able to do within the core strength framework is find a particular movement that addresses pre- and post-natal concerns highlighting the programs’ flexibility of approach.
According to Christine, the concentration on the center of the body has facilitated the birth process for many of her clients. They have related stories of more efficient labor experiences and have returned to their fitness program sooner than they expected.
Perhaps the most important function of “Family and Me”, is the opportunity for parents of small children to establish social connections within the group during a time when parenthood for some people, is a difficult and isolating situation. Fostering a supportive atmosphere for parents of newborns and toddlers is an element of the class which many participants find just as rewarding as any physical exercises.
In a culture where a recent study indicates 17 per cent of American children are obese and fully one third are classified as overweight, I believe the greatest service “Family and Me” provides is an opportunity for parents to set an example by having their children witness what a healthy and active lifestyle looks like. Instilling positive choices at such an early age can only promote a greater sense of physical and emotional well-being as they grow and learn.
Classes are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 10a.m. – 10:45a.m.