“It’s the accountability of being in that group environment—it almost puts you back in that military boot camp environment where someone is barking ‘Five more push-ups!’ We’re in it together!” - Lori Ceder, Marine Corps Veteran
Getting fit is one of most common New Year’s Resolutions. Unfortunately for many, by February, those good intentions have already started to fade. Not for Marine Corps Veteran Lori Ceder though! She participates in VA’s TeleMOVE! program and attends fitness classes four nights per week to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
TeleMOVE! is a program linking home Telehealth technology to support self-management of weight right at home. Each participant receives a scale and a care coordinator who is there to help them with encouragement and support. VA Butler’s Veteran fitness classes are five days a week, Monday—Friday from 4:30 - 5:30pm in VA Butler’s Auditorium. The classes are provided free of charge to Veterans.
What Lori finds the most helpful is the accountability of group fitness. “It’s the accountability of being in that group environment—it almost puts you back in that military boot camp environment where someone is barking ‘Five more push-ups!’ We’re in it together!”
Even if you are out of shape or have not been active in a long time, you can participate in a fitness class safely. “The first week I went to fitness classes, I didn’t think I could lift my coffee cup the next day. Everything hurt. But, I stuck with it. Now, I really look forward to going,” said Lori. “Almost every exercise we do, the instructor(s) give two to three modifications. Everybody in that room is not at the same level. We do what works for us.”
In addition to feeling better, Lori’s habits have also improved thanks to her commitment to VA’s healthy living programs. “I didn’t know what a portion of meat was until I met with the VA dietitian. You think you’re having a small size, when really you’re actually having two servings. And I didn’t know that! So, with TeleMOVE! that’s been a very helpful part for me too.”
Lori suggests Veterans interested in improving their health this New Year ask another Veteran or just call the VA to take that first step. “I’ve never had anyone at VA Butler not take the time to answer a question for me. I really like VA Butler Healthcare for that.” Have questions? Ready to get fit? Call 724.285.2292.
VA Butler's fitness class participants "Go Red" to support heart health this month.
February is American Heart Month
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the U.S. The good news? Heart disease can often be prevented when people make healthy choices and manage their health conditions. Check out VA Butler’s weekly fitness classes to stay heart healthy this month and all year long! www.butler.va.gov/services/Health_and_Wellness.asp
