Testimonials
"This month marks a year when I found TW Zumba. In the last 8 years I gained around 70 lbs, 50 of those lbs in the last year and a half; and was very sedentary. I went up two sizes in clothing and was on my way to the next size. One day I realized I couldn't squat and get back up without assistance. I couldn't get up the bleachers at my nephews game. My blood sugar and lipid numbers were on the high side.
My first zumba class was a shock. My feet wouldn't do what I wanted them to do and I was gasping for air. I was so uncoordinated I couldn't keep up. I thought it was going to be easier than that. LOL! BUT everyone was so helpful, encouraging, happy and you just got this feeling of family. And the instructor, Jenn was a little spitfire with so much energy. I decided to give it some time and before I knew I was keeping up with everyone else. I could get through the class without feeling I was going to be sick or pass out. A year later, even though the number in the scale doesn’t show that big of a difference, I feel stronger than ever! I have firmed up, gone down one size, my legs are much stronger (squats do pay off), and I have added a couple more TW classes into my exercise regimen like RIPPED and Step ’N Sculpt. These days, I am feeling very proud and happy as shown in my “after” photo. As evident in my “before” and “after” photos, you can see the big difference in my level of confidence. I am even proud to show off my stronger legs these days (hehe). Doing all these exercises have also inspired me to eat healthier. I love my Zumba and my TW family. Thank you Total Wellness!"
-Rita G. Moore
“I will never forget my first TW class (Zumba). There was so much energy and love in the room. The instructor’s (Jenn) passion for what she does and for her class participants like myself has encouraged me to get healthier. A few months later, my doctor said my bone mass has increased and my balance is a lot better. I have lost 35 pounds and lots of inches since I joined Total Wellness. Because of Zumba and Total Wellness, I now love to exercise and eat right. I truly thank Total Wellness from the bottom of my heart for changing my life. Get Fit, Stay Fit with Total Wellness”
-Vicki Marcoe
"I was told by my doctor that if I did not change my eating habits and start exercising that I was pretty much looking at taking medication the rest of my life. I joined the Wellness Program and started watching what I ate about 5 ½ to 6 years ago and have not looked back since. The classes that I attend are offered at noon, Monday through Friday which fit my work schedule. By changing my life style I have lost 6 dress sizes and this took place in the first year.
For anyone that is thinking about joining, come give it a try. The Wellness Program offers a free week at the beginning of every semester. The instructors are awesome and work with you if help is needed. The workouts are hard but there is always a modification and even after 6 years of workouts I still need to modify. In these classes no one judges anyone, we encourage one another.
I am going on 54 years old this March, not taking any medications, and still going strong. This program does work. Take a look at my before and after pictures. I heard this saying somewhere and love it for our program….. “We leave no woman or man behind”.
-Linda Arredondo
"My journey began after my father was diagnosed with diabetes,and I had several other family members that were having health problems. I knew that if I did not make a lifestyle change I would eventually have the same problems. I started worksite wellness in September; I have lost 24 lbs. and dropped two pant sizes. I have struggled with weight all my life and never really thought I could be physically fit. Through this process I have learned working out and eating right is a lot more mental than it is physical. I find satisfaction in pushing myself beyond what I think I can do. Worksite wellness has helped me eliminate the excuses!"
-Samantha De La Cruz
Hi, my name is Sylvia Cruz and I have been asked to write a testimonial of my journey. I have participated in TW-Texas State for a few years now, but about a year and half ago my physician told me that I was a diabetic. I was told I was going to have to start taking medication. I was upset and took some for awhile, but I decided I would not live the rest of my life taking medication. The only way I was going to make a difference was to exercise and alter my eating habits. I had turned 50 a few months prior and I figured it would be a good time to do something about this. There is one thing about me and that is I love to eat. I’ve always enjoyed going to TW during lunch time. The instructors have always been very kind and everyone goes at their own pace. They offered Step ‘N Sculpt, Kickboxing, Zumba Toning and Total Resistance Training. In September 2012 I was going three times a week and after 6 months I had lost about 15 pounds or so. I couldn’t really tell a difference personally, but then came summer and I kicked it up a notch and started going up to 5 times a week by going to TW-Activity Center. By September 2013 my doctor told me he was very proud of me and to keep up the good work and that I had lost 30 pounds. My my stamina is better and I’ve got more energy than I’ve ever had before. I’ve made new friends and love my TW family. They are all very supportive, each and every one of them. Thank you for all that you have done and I hope to continue my wellness journey for many more years.”
-Sylvia Cruz
"My journey with Total Wellness began in the summer of 2012 when I began taking Zumba classes at the San Marcos Activity Center. I’ve always loved dancing, so this was naturally a fun way for me to stay active. In the spring of 2013, SMCISD launched the Worksite Wellness program, which I joined as well. The classes are challenging yet accommodating to all fitness levels, and the instructors are motivating, friendly and masters of their craft. Jenn’s energy and smile are contagious during Zumba to the point that you can’t even tell you’re exercising, and Drew’s encouragement and fitness/health knowledge have pushed me to work harder in the Tone and Chisel class. The variety of classes at both the Activity Center and with Worksite Wellness provides something for everyone. I have stronger muscles, my endurance has increased, and I have higher energy levels. Attending classes has become part of my regular routine and helped me strive to “Get Fit! Stay Fit!” Thanks Total Wellness!"
-Priscilla Delgado
"In September of 2011 and almost a year after chemo and radiation for breast cancer, I found myself retired (wasn't really ready). I knew for my physical and mental health I needed to find something that would interest me and keep me active. I found Total Wellness Zumba. The exercise keeps me strong and helps to control some of the residual affects of chemo and medications. Being with my classmates brings joy and pleasure, and a sense of belonging. I am thankful for my Zumba family and Total Wellness. It has made such a difference in my life."
-Linda Jefferson Hopson
"It all started when I had to struggle to get out of my bathtub. I just wasn't ready to give up and be old. I had been passing by Jenn's Zumba classes and since I like to dance I gave it a try. Within 6 weeks, I could hop out of the bathtub like a 20 year old. If this class performed a miracle then all the classes should be just as helpful. My arthritis disappeared and after losing 40 pounds I threw away my diabetes, cholesterol, and high blood pressure medication. I cured the diabetes, my cholesterol number is great and my blood pressure is perfect! I'm proud to be a 74-year old and a grandfather figure to those 20-40 year old ones...but, I really feel 30 years younger! I would like to be an example to older adults to let them know that it is never too late to live a healthy lifestyle.
Thank you Total Wellness and all the great staff that makes it a success!!!"
-Dennis Lee
My first zumba class was a shock. My feet wouldn't do what I wanted them to do and I was gasping for air. I was so uncoordinated I couldn't keep up. I thought it was going to be easier than that. LOL! BUT everyone was so helpful, encouraging, happy and you just got this feeling of family. And the instructor, Jenn was a little spitfire with so much energy. I decided to give it some time and before I knew I was keeping up with everyone else. I could get through the class without feeling I was going to be sick or pass out. A year later, even though the number in the scale doesn’t show that big of a difference, I feel stronger than ever! I have firmed up, gone down one size, my legs are much stronger (squats do pay off), and I have added a couple more TW classes into my exercise regimen like RIPPED and Step ’N Sculpt. These days, I am feeling very proud and happy as shown in my “after” photo. As evident in my “before” and “after” photos, you can see the big difference in my level of confidence. I am even proud to show off my stronger legs these days (hehe). Doing all these exercises have also inspired me to eat healthier. I love my Zumba and my TW family. Thank you Total Wellness!"
-Rita G. Moore
“I will never forget my first TW class (Zumba). There was so much energy and love in the room. The instructor’s (Jenn) passion for what she does and for her class participants like myself has encouraged me to get healthier. A few months later, my doctor said my bone mass has increased and my balance is a lot better. I have lost 35 pounds and lots of inches since I joined Total Wellness. Because of Zumba and Total Wellness, I now love to exercise and eat right. I truly thank Total Wellness from the bottom of my heart for changing my life. Get Fit, Stay Fit with Total Wellness”
-Vicki Marcoe
"I was told by my doctor that if I did not change my eating habits and start exercising that I was pretty much looking at taking medication the rest of my life. I joined the Wellness Program and started watching what I ate about 5 ½ to 6 years ago and have not looked back since. The classes that I attend are offered at noon, Monday through Friday which fit my work schedule. By changing my life style I have lost 6 dress sizes and this took place in the first year.
For anyone that is thinking about joining, come give it a try. The Wellness Program offers a free week at the beginning of every semester. The instructors are awesome and work with you if help is needed. The workouts are hard but there is always a modification and even after 6 years of workouts I still need to modify. In these classes no one judges anyone, we encourage one another.
I am going on 54 years old this March, not taking any medications, and still going strong. This program does work. Take a look at my before and after pictures. I heard this saying somewhere and love it for our program….. “We leave no woman or man behind”.
-Linda Arredondo
"My journey began after my father was diagnosed with diabetes,and I had several other family members that were having health problems. I knew that if I did not make a lifestyle change I would eventually have the same problems. I started worksite wellness in September; I have lost 24 lbs. and dropped two pant sizes. I have struggled with weight all my life and never really thought I could be physically fit. Through this process I have learned working out and eating right is a lot more mental than it is physical. I find satisfaction in pushing myself beyond what I think I can do. Worksite wellness has helped me eliminate the excuses!"
-Samantha De La Cruz
Hi, my name is Sylvia Cruz and I have been asked to write a testimonial of my journey. I have participated in TW-Texas State for a few years now, but about a year and half ago my physician told me that I was a diabetic. I was told I was going to have to start taking medication. I was upset and took some for awhile, but I decided I would not live the rest of my life taking medication. The only way I was going to make a difference was to exercise and alter my eating habits. I had turned 50 a few months prior and I figured it would be a good time to do something about this. There is one thing about me and that is I love to eat. I’ve always enjoyed going to TW during lunch time. The instructors have always been very kind and everyone goes at their own pace. They offered Step ‘N Sculpt, Kickboxing, Zumba Toning and Total Resistance Training. In September 2012 I was going three times a week and after 6 months I had lost about 15 pounds or so. I couldn’t really tell a difference personally, but then came summer and I kicked it up a notch and started going up to 5 times a week by going to TW-Activity Center. By September 2013 my doctor told me he was very proud of me and to keep up the good work and that I had lost 30 pounds. My my stamina is better and I’ve got more energy than I’ve ever had before. I’ve made new friends and love my TW family. They are all very supportive, each and every one of them. Thank you for all that you have done and I hope to continue my wellness journey for many more years.”
-Sylvia Cruz
"My journey with Total Wellness began in the summer of 2012 when I began taking Zumba classes at the San Marcos Activity Center. I’ve always loved dancing, so this was naturally a fun way for me to stay active. In the spring of 2013, SMCISD launched the Worksite Wellness program, which I joined as well. The classes are challenging yet accommodating to all fitness levels, and the instructors are motivating, friendly and masters of their craft. Jenn’s energy and smile are contagious during Zumba to the point that you can’t even tell you’re exercising, and Drew’s encouragement and fitness/health knowledge have pushed me to work harder in the Tone and Chisel class. The variety of classes at both the Activity Center and with Worksite Wellness provides something for everyone. I have stronger muscles, my endurance has increased, and I have higher energy levels. Attending classes has become part of my regular routine and helped me strive to “Get Fit! Stay Fit!” Thanks Total Wellness!"
-Priscilla Delgado
"In September of 2011 and almost a year after chemo and radiation for breast cancer, I found myself retired (wasn't really ready). I knew for my physical and mental health I needed to find something that would interest me and keep me active. I found Total Wellness Zumba. The exercise keeps me strong and helps to control some of the residual affects of chemo and medications. Being with my classmates brings joy and pleasure, and a sense of belonging. I am thankful for my Zumba family and Total Wellness. It has made such a difference in my life."
-Linda Jefferson Hopson
"It all started when I had to struggle to get out of my bathtub. I just wasn't ready to give up and be old. I had been passing by Jenn's Zumba classes and since I like to dance I gave it a try. Within 6 weeks, I could hop out of the bathtub like a 20 year old. If this class performed a miracle then all the classes should be just as helpful. My arthritis disappeared and after losing 40 pounds I threw away my diabetes, cholesterol, and high blood pressure medication. I cured the diabetes, my cholesterol number is great and my blood pressure is perfect! I'm proud to be a 74-year old and a grandfather figure to those 20-40 year old ones...but, I really feel 30 years younger! I would like to be an example to older adults to let them know that it is never too late to live a healthy lifestyle.
Thank you Total Wellness and all the great staff that makes it a success!!!"
-Dennis Lee
"Cathy, Trina and I (Kristen) walked at the Got your Back 5K on Sunday! Hopefully we will be able to jog/run soon..."
-Kristen
"Okay I am going to put my faith in you and believe that YOU believe that I believe I can do this at the urging of a fellow worker Luz Benitez!"
-DeLara Julian
"I had a lipid profile done during Spring Break (2 1/2 months into the wellness program), and, for the first time in 3 years, my total cholesterol as well as my LDL went down! Yay! My levels had been going up each year. My doctor told me last year that if it wasn¹t improving the next time she was going to start me on medication. I appreciate and feel I have really benefited from the Employee Wellness Program."
-Melanie Eiland, RN
"I’ve lost 10 lbs with the change in my diet, I hope to continue after my surgery. I was hoping to have lost a bit more, but 10 lbs since February 20 isn¹t so bad."
-Lisa Ancelet
"Hey I did my final TW Expanded Package fitness test yesterday. Results were quite pleasing. Yippee! I was hoping for good results for myself, but also in support of the Employee Wellness program. It’s positive reinforcement to continue on this summer. Thanks (to you and your team) for the wonderful opportunity!"
-Amy McAllister
"AWW thank you Lisa. I have 6 granddaughters and I love that I can keep up with them. I enjoy all the instructors, so I am now doing two-a-days on Tue through Thurs. so I will not miss one of their workouts.
-Linda Arredondo (55 and still going strong!)
"I am loving this program. Mainly because of the instructors! All are so cheerful and welcoming and never pass judgment."
-Alison Mott
"Today’s class was awesome!!!! She did an outstanding job."
-Linda Arredondo
"I think I¹m more energetic in the morning because by 5:30 pm, I¹m a bit drained from the day. I prefer the Yoga or walking in the evenings and the more intense exercising in the mornings. I do plan to go each Wednesday to Exercise 101 during March, since the focus is on Muscular fitness. The instructor last night not only provided varying alternatives, but also told us what muscles we were working w/ each exercise. She was really very good. Monday nights are reserved for Yoga w/ my daughter. I just love Mondays!!! Thanks also to you, Carolyn, and your entire team for giving us this gift of employee wellness. We¹re very fortunate and I really am feeling pretty darn good, compared to even just a few months ago!"
-Amy McAllister
"I love this wellness program. Ya¹ll are doing a great job! This program is fantastic and is such a benefit to employees. From the various workout classes, nutrition information, fitness testing, etc… this program really helps me have balance in my life. It is truly helping me reach my fitness goals which helps me be a better employee at work as well. Thanks so much for doing such a great job with this program!"
-Dede Gonzales
"I just took a backpacking trip in the Grand Canyon. It was a once in a lifetime event with my family and I literally could not have made it without attending the workouts."
-Mark Boucher
"Thank you again for all your work on this - you're making a difference to so many people at Texas State."
-Dr. Lucia Summers
"Oh that is AWESOME! Thank you so much! I absolutely love the program and think it¹s great that you offer this incentive to the staff/faculty members."
-Leslie Burgess
"I love the program and extremely grateful for it. I have notice a huge difference in my energy level (positive), mental alertness (again positive), and of course my ability to simply move better. Thank you for being part of such an awesome team. You have no idea of the gift you have given us. I was so caught off guard by the mental benefits, at 48 I am so glad I finally get it. Now my goal is to kick my glutes (and more) in the best shape ever! And re correct my eating LOL. Y¹all rock J!"
-Judy Herington
"I just wanted to take a quick moment of your time to say THANK YOU for taking the time to co-ordinate this program. When I started at Texas State October, 2013, I weighed over 250 lbs. I began dieting and jogging and was able to get down to about 190 when we began the program 2 weeks ago. Since the program began, I¹ve been utilizing the pool on Tuesdays & Thursdays and the RIPPED class on Friday. My scale at home shows that I have lost another 7 pounds since the program began and I have lost another 2 inches around my waist. I feel blessed to have been hired here at Texas State, and this program just adds to that feeling.
Again, I want to THANK YOU for what may seem like a thankless job at times, but know that I am a supporter and you are helping to change lives."
-Robert Styers
"I just wanted to drop a note to say how much I enjoy and appreciate the Wellness Program. I attend Strength, Stretch, No Sweat on Mondays in JCK with Jo Beth, Aqua Pump on Tuesdays and Thursdays with Jo Beth, Exercise 101 on Monday evenings with Stacy and Exercise 101 on Wednesday with Carolyn. Each and every instructor has a well-planned workout that takes us to task. I may not be able to do each and every move to perfection but because of the instructors and your knowledge in motivation, I strive to complete each activity. I do find that I have more stamina and desire to exercise whenever possible. I also have shown several people I know how to do the Strength, Stretch, No Sweat when sitting at their desk. J I hope the Pilot Program continues to be a success for future offerings and participation. I just wanted you to know that I appreciate the program and what it does for staff."
-Cathy Parker
"Good morning Carolyn! I just wanted to send an email to you to let you know how much I really appreciate the wellness program. I participate in yoga and aqua pump and just knowing I have something to look forward to at lunch and at the end of the day relieves a lot of the stress of my job. Usually during my lunches I would usually sit in my office and try to unwind but now, even just walking over to Jowers or the Aquatic Building, I feel a sense of relief and excitement. I would love it if this program became permanent and would take full advantage of it. I tell all of my co-workers what a great program this is and recommend they sign up for it too! Thank you so much for this program! I think it is very beneficial!"
-Jennifer Obenhaus
"I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate the Total Wellness Program and both the instructor and the counselor I¹ve met so far. Katie, who is leading the Fitness 101 ³Couch to 5K² class, has been great, especially for me, someone who is terribly out of shape and trying to adopt a healthier lifestyle. She’s been encouraging, supportive and great at giving us tips for developing a sustainable, effective workout programs on our own time. She¹s also been great about helping me work around a mild impairment to one of my legs, which is obviously not ideal for a running program. Katie has given me room to pace my walking/running at a level I can accommodate, while still motivating me to keep pushing ahead. I just had my Fitness Testing follow-up appointment with Jo Beth Perkins, who also did a wonderful job talking me through my strengths and weakness in a constructive way, focused on helping me develop some practical goals for improving my overall health and habits. That¹s exactly what I hoped get out of having fitness assessment. I’ve got a nutrition consultation scheduled for next week and, with Jo Beth¹s advice, I¹m planning to attend a few more of the group exercise classes. This is an outstanding job benefit and I hope the Total Wellness program will continue and grow."
-Rodney Crouther
"I just want to share with you more thoughts on the wellness program that has changed my teaching style, my academic and professional development, and my personal life.
1. (Teaching Style) In the summer of 2015 I taught a group of 20 mathematically gifted
middle school students (with ages of 12-13 years old) at Junior Summer Math Camp
through Texas State University Mathworks program. http://www.txstate.edu/mathworks/
This was a 2-week full day residential summer camp in mathematics. Although many of them were from Texas, the students were selected nationally with the acceptance rate of only 1:4. I taught them problem solving techniques in mathematics from 8:00AM -12:00 noon every day. Although they are extremely strong in mathematics, many students are not physically strong. For example, some of them were only able to do 1 or 2 pushups. So each morning I spent 5 minutes doing pushups together with those kids. I hope that they would not only learn mathematics skills from me but also
learn some good exercise habits from me. Then in the afternoon, I also brought them to the Rec Center and encourage them to run with me in the indoor track.
2. (Academic and Professional Development) Exercising one hour per day in the past 30 years makes me very energetic. I can perform my academic work more effectively. I work very hard every day and I never feel tired. I am the best researcher in the mathematics department, winning the Texas State University presidential award in research twice (2004, 2013). Recently I was selected as Associate Chair for the mathematics department effective Aug 15, 2015. I feel that having a physically strong body has given me more space to move up academically and professionally. I believe that the university's investment to the wellness program will be paid back greatly due to the fact that
faculty and staff from this program will be able to work more effectively.
3. (Personal life) I have two little kids of ages 5 and 2 respectively, and my wife and I are expecting a 3rd baby in January 2016. We love kids! Thanks to the wellness program, I have energy to take care of my kids and play with my kids everyday. In the attached third video, I showed my kids two weeks ago in a playground to climb a pole without using feet. Now, my 5-year-old boy always brags before other kids in the playground "my dad can climb the pole without
using feet...". This is the best reward to a parent!
In all, I want to thank you and the wellness program for the positive changes made in my teaching style, research and professional development,
and personal life."
-Jian Shen
-Kristen
"Okay I am going to put my faith in you and believe that YOU believe that I believe I can do this at the urging of a fellow worker Luz Benitez!"
-DeLara Julian
"I had a lipid profile done during Spring Break (2 1/2 months into the wellness program), and, for the first time in 3 years, my total cholesterol as well as my LDL went down! Yay! My levels had been going up each year. My doctor told me last year that if it wasn¹t improving the next time she was going to start me on medication. I appreciate and feel I have really benefited from the Employee Wellness Program."
-Melanie Eiland, RN
"I’ve lost 10 lbs with the change in my diet, I hope to continue after my surgery. I was hoping to have lost a bit more, but 10 lbs since February 20 isn¹t so bad."
-Lisa Ancelet
"Hey I did my final TW Expanded Package fitness test yesterday. Results were quite pleasing. Yippee! I was hoping for good results for myself, but also in support of the Employee Wellness program. It’s positive reinforcement to continue on this summer. Thanks (to you and your team) for the wonderful opportunity!"
-Amy McAllister
"AWW thank you Lisa. I have 6 granddaughters and I love that I can keep up with them. I enjoy all the instructors, so I am now doing two-a-days on Tue through Thurs. so I will not miss one of their workouts.
-Linda Arredondo (55 and still going strong!)
"I am loving this program. Mainly because of the instructors! All are so cheerful and welcoming and never pass judgment."
-Alison Mott
"Today’s class was awesome!!!! She did an outstanding job."
-Linda Arredondo
"I think I¹m more energetic in the morning because by 5:30 pm, I¹m a bit drained from the day. I prefer the Yoga or walking in the evenings and the more intense exercising in the mornings. I do plan to go each Wednesday to Exercise 101 during March, since the focus is on Muscular fitness. The instructor last night not only provided varying alternatives, but also told us what muscles we were working w/ each exercise. She was really very good. Monday nights are reserved for Yoga w/ my daughter. I just love Mondays!!! Thanks also to you, Carolyn, and your entire team for giving us this gift of employee wellness. We¹re very fortunate and I really am feeling pretty darn good, compared to even just a few months ago!"
-Amy McAllister
"I love this wellness program. Ya¹ll are doing a great job! This program is fantastic and is such a benefit to employees. From the various workout classes, nutrition information, fitness testing, etc… this program really helps me have balance in my life. It is truly helping me reach my fitness goals which helps me be a better employee at work as well. Thanks so much for doing such a great job with this program!"
-Dede Gonzales
"I just took a backpacking trip in the Grand Canyon. It was a once in a lifetime event with my family and I literally could not have made it without attending the workouts."
-Mark Boucher
"Thank you again for all your work on this - you're making a difference to so many people at Texas State."
-Dr. Lucia Summers
"Oh that is AWESOME! Thank you so much! I absolutely love the program and think it¹s great that you offer this incentive to the staff/faculty members."
-Leslie Burgess
"I love the program and extremely grateful for it. I have notice a huge difference in my energy level (positive), mental alertness (again positive), and of course my ability to simply move better. Thank you for being part of such an awesome team. You have no idea of the gift you have given us. I was so caught off guard by the mental benefits, at 48 I am so glad I finally get it. Now my goal is to kick my glutes (and more) in the best shape ever! And re correct my eating LOL. Y¹all rock J!"
-Judy Herington
"I just wanted to take a quick moment of your time to say THANK YOU for taking the time to co-ordinate this program. When I started at Texas State October, 2013, I weighed over 250 lbs. I began dieting and jogging and was able to get down to about 190 when we began the program 2 weeks ago. Since the program began, I¹ve been utilizing the pool on Tuesdays & Thursdays and the RIPPED class on Friday. My scale at home shows that I have lost another 7 pounds since the program began and I have lost another 2 inches around my waist. I feel blessed to have been hired here at Texas State, and this program just adds to that feeling.
Again, I want to THANK YOU for what may seem like a thankless job at times, but know that I am a supporter and you are helping to change lives."
-Robert Styers
"I just wanted to drop a note to say how much I enjoy and appreciate the Wellness Program. I attend Strength, Stretch, No Sweat on Mondays in JCK with Jo Beth, Aqua Pump on Tuesdays and Thursdays with Jo Beth, Exercise 101 on Monday evenings with Stacy and Exercise 101 on Wednesday with Carolyn. Each and every instructor has a well-planned workout that takes us to task. I may not be able to do each and every move to perfection but because of the instructors and your knowledge in motivation, I strive to complete each activity. I do find that I have more stamina and desire to exercise whenever possible. I also have shown several people I know how to do the Strength, Stretch, No Sweat when sitting at their desk. J I hope the Pilot Program continues to be a success for future offerings and participation. I just wanted you to know that I appreciate the program and what it does for staff."
-Cathy Parker
"Good morning Carolyn! I just wanted to send an email to you to let you know how much I really appreciate the wellness program. I participate in yoga and aqua pump and just knowing I have something to look forward to at lunch and at the end of the day relieves a lot of the stress of my job. Usually during my lunches I would usually sit in my office and try to unwind but now, even just walking over to Jowers or the Aquatic Building, I feel a sense of relief and excitement. I would love it if this program became permanent and would take full advantage of it. I tell all of my co-workers what a great program this is and recommend they sign up for it too! Thank you so much for this program! I think it is very beneficial!"
-Jennifer Obenhaus
"I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate the Total Wellness Program and both the instructor and the counselor I¹ve met so far. Katie, who is leading the Fitness 101 ³Couch to 5K² class, has been great, especially for me, someone who is terribly out of shape and trying to adopt a healthier lifestyle. She’s been encouraging, supportive and great at giving us tips for developing a sustainable, effective workout programs on our own time. She¹s also been great about helping me work around a mild impairment to one of my legs, which is obviously not ideal for a running program. Katie has given me room to pace my walking/running at a level I can accommodate, while still motivating me to keep pushing ahead. I just had my Fitness Testing follow-up appointment with Jo Beth Perkins, who also did a wonderful job talking me through my strengths and weakness in a constructive way, focused on helping me develop some practical goals for improving my overall health and habits. That¹s exactly what I hoped get out of having fitness assessment. I’ve got a nutrition consultation scheduled for next week and, with Jo Beth¹s advice, I¹m planning to attend a few more of the group exercise classes. This is an outstanding job benefit and I hope the Total Wellness program will continue and grow."
-Rodney Crouther
"I just want to share with you more thoughts on the wellness program that has changed my teaching style, my academic and professional development, and my personal life.
1. (Teaching Style) In the summer of 2015 I taught a group of 20 mathematically gifted
middle school students (with ages of 12-13 years old) at Junior Summer Math Camp
through Texas State University Mathworks program. http://www.txstate.edu/mathworks/
This was a 2-week full day residential summer camp in mathematics. Although many of them were from Texas, the students were selected nationally with the acceptance rate of only 1:4. I taught them problem solving techniques in mathematics from 8:00AM -12:00 noon every day. Although they are extremely strong in mathematics, many students are not physically strong. For example, some of them were only able to do 1 or 2 pushups. So each morning I spent 5 minutes doing pushups together with those kids. I hope that they would not only learn mathematics skills from me but also
learn some good exercise habits from me. Then in the afternoon, I also brought them to the Rec Center and encourage them to run with me in the indoor track.
2. (Academic and Professional Development) Exercising one hour per day in the past 30 years makes me very energetic. I can perform my academic work more effectively. I work very hard every day and I never feel tired. I am the best researcher in the mathematics department, winning the Texas State University presidential award in research twice (2004, 2013). Recently I was selected as Associate Chair for the mathematics department effective Aug 15, 2015. I feel that having a physically strong body has given me more space to move up academically and professionally. I believe that the university's investment to the wellness program will be paid back greatly due to the fact that
faculty and staff from this program will be able to work more effectively.
3. (Personal life) I have two little kids of ages 5 and 2 respectively, and my wife and I are expecting a 3rd baby in January 2016. We love kids! Thanks to the wellness program, I have energy to take care of my kids and play with my kids everyday. In the attached third video, I showed my kids two weeks ago in a playground to climb a pole without using feet. Now, my 5-year-old boy always brags before other kids in the playground "my dad can climb the pole without
using feet...". This is the best reward to a parent!
In all, I want to thank you and the wellness program for the positive changes made in my teaching style, research and professional development,
and personal life."
-Jian Shen
