Not all fitness progress needs to be a dramatic transformation. As Gunner Wenger puts it, “being physically fit can have a different meaning to each person.” Even the smallest of changes in physical activity can lead to life-long benefits.

Wenger, club manager of Anytime Fitness in Monroe, knows those life-long benefits well. He grew up around athletics and eventually began to coach high school wrestling. He said it was a way to both help improve students’ athletic performance as well as to improve their overall health through fitness and nutrition. 

 “I wanted to continue this journey of helping others along their health and fitness journey in our local area,” said Wenger.

Many Green County residents may be seeking out Anytime Fitness for the first time this month as part of resolutions to improve their own health and fitness. Wenger says the first step — though sometimes the most difficult — is simply walking through the door and getting started. 

New members at Anytime Fitness first do a fitness consultation, where they discuss goals, any challenges or physical limitations, and nutrition among other things. 

“Every person has a different background, and we understand that,” he said. “Asking for help allows our coaches to work along or through those limitations and/or disabilities.”

Wenger says that Anytime Fitness uses coaches instead of trainers — and insists that there is a key difference between the two.

“A trainer tells you what to do. A coach works with you, listens, and doesn’t stop thinking about your progress when the workout is finished. Your needs are unique, and a one-size fits all approach isn’t going to cut it.”

Wenger’s top tips for maintaining good physical health:

●  Sleep 8 hours a day 

●  Drink more water 

●  Include resistance training in your schedule 3x a week 

He also recommends these three exercises in particular for beginners and those with limited time to work out:

●  Glute bridges

●  Face pulls with a resistance band

●  Goblet squats

Anytime Fitness provides members with 24/7 access to the facility, which includes equipment ranging from cardio and free weights to a functional training area. The facility also provides access to body composition scans and nutritional assistance among other amenities.

Improving your fitness doesn’t only help your physical health. Wenger said good fitness and a consistent workout routine can also be important factors in maintaining good mental health.

“We understand the process can be intimidating; however, it is important to enjoy the journey,” he said. “Celebrating the small wins and cherishing the baby steps will allow for more success and long-term sustainability.”

Monroe yoga instructor Cathy Hauck knows first-hand that connection between physical and mental well-being. 

Hauck’s interest in yoga began with a friend asking to join her for a class. “I found the practice calming, engaging and at times challenging,” said Hauck. “It was just what my busy mind needed.” 

After leaving the class feeling calm and balanced, she was hooked.

Hauck opened The Infinity Studio in Monroe 15 years ago. She recently moved the studio to a historic home just off the Monroe Square. The “Spangler House” was owned by George Spangler, the second mayor of Monroe, in the 1800s. After renovations, the yoga studio was ready for students.

Students at The Infinity Studio can find their own sense of balance with a variety of class offerings. In addition to yoga, the studio also offers Reiki sessions, sound healing and Shaklee nutritional supplements. Hauck says she will also be starting a beginner series in the near future, along with the return of restorative yoga sessions and other specialty classes. 

The studio offers both in-person and online classes. Anyone interested can register for classes on The Infinity Studio’s website.

Hauck’s top tips for good physical health: 

●  Take time for yourself every day

●  Slowing down and learning proper breath work and body alignment can change your life

●  Being kind to your body and mind will take you far

Yoga isn’t just for those experienced in the practice. As a gentler form of movement, it can complement any exercise routine. 

“Yoga can help you explore the best version of yourself by bringing mindfulness to your daily life,” said Hauck. “The breath work calms the mind and nervous system allowing you to gain a better perspective on what your body needs.”

— This story is part of a six-part series highlighting local services that can help readers be the best version of themselves in the new year. This story focuses on the topic of physical health and fitness.