Free fitness assessments

The fitness assessment is a service provided to all members, new and current. The assessment itself takes approximately one hour and involves a number of baseline fitness measures. The Blomeyer Health Fitness Center is fortunate to possess a state of the art computer called the Tri-Fit 600. This computer and software package not only make the fitness assessment an interesting experience, but provides you with a color printout of your results that you can take home with you to review.

Components of the fitness assessment include blood pressure and circumference measurements, body composition, flexibility, cardiovascular fitness, and strength. Each of the measures are optional and are there for the benefit of the member.

Body composition is measured using the 3-site skinfold caliper method.

Hamstring and low back flexibility are evaluated using a modified sit and reach format.

The YMCA bike ergometer assessment or OwnIndex is used to estimate cardiovascular fitnessness. The YMCA test is sub-maximal, meaning that the particpant will be taken 85% of their age-predicted maximum heart rate.The OwnIndex is a quick, easy option, used to estimate maximal aerobic power. The OwnIndex is based on heart rate, heart rate variability at rest, body structure and self assessed physical activity.

Strength is evaluated using three different tests, the first being an isometric biceps strength test. The other two evaluations are the chest press and leg press. Each of the last two are one repetition maximums. A one-rep maximum refers to most weight that can be lifted in one repetition. These tests accurately represent member's current strength level.

The Tri-Fit 600 also provides the option of setting up a meal plan, and a workout schedule that includes both cardiovascular and strength training. The meal planner will determine the proper number of calories that need to be taken to achieve the member's goals. Sample menus including the member's favorite food are also a part of the meal planner. The workout schedules allows the trainer to set up a basic, intermediate, or advanced exercise program depending upon on the experience level of the member.

The fitness assessment is a great way to start an exercise program. The results of the assessment will provide you with extensive feedback on your current fitness level and will give you information on how to improve your overall fitness. Once you have exercised for a period of time (usually six months), a second assessment can be scheduled. The second assessment will be compared to the previous as a source of tangible feedback. Decisions can then be made on how your exercise and fitness program have or have not been working for you.

Should you have any further questions please feel free to call us at (404) 727-4600 or simply stop in at the front desk.