Published: April 28, 2008 11:50 am         

Life Fitness Management taking concept of health club to the next level

LAVALE - Life Fitness Management recently opened its doors at 1226 National Highway with a ribbon cutting ceremony attended by num-erous government officials and other guests.

The state-of-the-art facility is next to CVS pharmacy in the building that formerly housed County Market and later Giant Eagle. Tours and demonstrations of equipment were given to visitors during the grand opening celebration.

The 10,000-square-foot health club was built with the intention of addressing wellness at several levels: nutrition through nutrition assessment and planning; wellness coaching that addresses the lifestyle issues that frequently challenge people in doing what they need to do to be healthier; and physical fitness through strength and cardiovascular exercise training.

The business offers yoga, pilates, dance and specialty classes, corporate wellness, health fairs, a coffee and smoothie bar and a gym. Free wireless Internet, steam sauna and towel service are among the many amenities.

"As you may know, we are living in a county where 67.2 percent of the adults are overweight or obese - the highest percent in Maryland," said owner and wellness coach Amy Schwab Owens. "We believe that this kind of business is essential to the community, not only to address the issue of obesity, but also to create a culture where wellness is encouraged and a variety of avenues are available."

The new facility is seeking to redefine the concept of a health club by creating opportunities for applying fitness as well as developing it. The club plans to offer excursions for day, weekend and extended trips that engage the individual in active pursuits such as caving, rock climbing, hiking and golf.

The health club is open seven days a week.

For more membership information, call (301) 729-2275.