ASK THE MASSAGE EXPERT: FIRST TIME MASSAGE INFORMATION

So you are getting a massage for the first time. And you probably have many questions to ask the massage therapist. In this first supplement of “Massage at your fingertips” Kathleen will be able to answer some of your questions even before you have your first appointment.

1.) What time should I arrive for my appointment?

Being on time is important! Arrive about 10 minutes prior to your appointment. This will give you time to use the rest room and to change into a robe and slippers (if they are provided).Should you arrive late, your treatment will end as scheduled as a courtesy to our other guest and to the therapist. If there is a front desk receptionist, be sure to “check in” so that they can tell your therapist that you have arrived.



2.) When will I meet my massage therapist?

At the time of your appointment, the massage therapist will come and get you and call you by name. They will introduce themselves. “My name is Kathleen and I am your massage therapist.” Expect to shake hands. At this point, the therapist will bring you into a treatment room.



3.) Once I get into the massage room, does the massage “just start”?

Most of the time, your massage therapist wants to get to know you. Plan on about a 5-10 minute consultation in regards your health. You may even have a health information form to fill out and a signed release “to treat” agreement.



4.) What types of question will they ask me?

Questions such as: Have you ever had a massage? If so, when was your last massage?

Do you have high blood pressure, diabetes, heart problems or could you be pregnant?

Do you have any allergies? Have you had a recent accident, injury, illness or surgery?



5.) It seems like they ask a lot of personal health questions, why is that?

With massage therapy being one of the most hands on professions in health care, massage therapists need to make sure that each person they treat will receive they best care possible. And the best way this can be done is to ask many questions about your health.



6.) So I am about ready to have my massage, now what?

At this point, the massage therapist will explain that they will be leaving the room for a moment or two so “that you will have time to undress down to your comfort.” Meaning, “your may leave on your undershorts or take them off”. They will also tell you to either get on the massage table by being face up or face down in the face cradle. Once you are undressed, you will get on the massage table between the two sheets. After a moment or two, the therapist will knock on the door and come back into the room and then your massage will begin.



7.) I just found out I am pregnant, can I make an appointment for a pregnancy massage?

Many massage therapists will ask you what trimester or how many weeks along you are. If you are less than 12 weeks or 3 months from the last day of your last menstrual period, chances are you will be unable to be treated at that time. Many therapists will refuse to offer massage to a woman who is still in her first trimester because of the increased statistics for miscarriage associated with the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. However after 3 months, be sure to discuss massage options with your OB/BYN or midwife. Contraindications for pregnancy massage are as followed: Hypertension (high blood pressure) with preeclampsia, previous preterm labor, severe headache or swelling or questionable vaginal bleeding. Also do not be surprised if the massage therapist tells you that they will not be massaging your feet. Trained prenatal or pregnancy massage therapists are aware of pressure points on the ankles and wrists that can gently stimulate pelvic muscles, including the uterus. Certified prenatal massage therapists are trained to avoid very specific and intentional pressure to these areas during pregnancy. Any woman who has experienced pre-term contractions or consistent Braxton-Hicks contractions should alert her therapist to that fact so that pressure points can be avoided completely.

8). I just had a car accident, can I still have a massage?

Consult with the doctor that is treating you with your injuries. Request a referral to a clinical massage therapist. Most clinical massage therapists have experience with how to treat those who have been injured in an accident. The therapist will be able to file with insurances, work with physicians and lawyers.

Please feel free to e-mail me at fleuryk@pyamid.com with any question that you may have in regards to massage. I welcome questions from massage therapists, patients, those considering treatment and massage students.

Ask Dr. Margaret: Hot Flashes

Q: I thought I was too young, but I am finding myself starting menopause. This is of course bringing up all sorts of emotional issues that I am working through with my counselor. But the physical symptoms are really stressful for me—especially the hot flashes. I used to think my grandmother and mother were just teasing me, but I am finding out for myself now that they can be really bad and really impact my life. What causes hot flashes? And what do you recommend for treating them?

A: Thank you for this question. The following article may be of interest to you:

Hot Flash Relief.

What is the most common symptom of menopause experienced by 75% of women at some point? Hot flashes. This pesky problem is attributed to estrogen withdrawal. As of the year 2000 there were approximately 37.5 million women reaching menopause; with the aging baby boomer population this number is only growing. With such a common symptom affecting such a large percentage of the world's population, it's no wonder research continues to focus on ways to gain relief.



Recent research into the efficacy of escitalopram (Lexapro), suggests it may cut the number of hot flashes experienced by postmenopausal women in half. Lexapro, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), was originally developed as a pharmaceutical treatment option for depression. This is not the first SSRI researched for hot flash relief, even so, the exact way in which Lexapro works to relieve hot flashes is not completely understood. It's pricy though. Women choosing this pharmaceutical for hot flash relief can expect a lofty price tag as the treatment runs approximately $110 per month.



During the menopausal transition, hot flashes are associated with a rise in the body's core temperature and a narrowing of the body's thermoneutral zone, with a decrease of the sweating threshold and an increase of the shivering threshold. Simply put, peri and menopausal women tend to run a bit warmer than pre-menopausal women with an increased tolerance for cold and a decreased tolerance for heat. These changes in the body's temperature regulation are associated with multiple fluctuations in hormones and the neurotransmitters that accompany menopause, including changes in estrogen, norepinephrine and serotonin.



So what is the connection? Well, in the brain, estrogen increases serotonin's ability to activate its receptors. Estrogen withdrawal during menopause causes decreased serotonin receptor sensitivity, resulting in multiple physiological changes including the temperature regulation changes that contribute to menopausal hot flashes. Although the use of an SSRI does not address the decreased serotonin receptor sensitivity associated with estrogen withdrawal, it does maintain higher levels of serotonin available for use by the receptors.



Known to be a symptom of low estrogen, a more commonly known treatment option for hot flash relief may be estrogen supplementation. In addition to providing relief from hot flashes, topical bioidentical estrogen supplementation may also be beneficial for optimal bone health. Supplementing estrogen by itself may increase the risk of estrogen-dependent cancers including uterine and breast cancer, thus it's important to balance estrogen therapies with progesterone supplementation. Baseline salivary hormone testing of estrogen and progesterone levels will demonstrate if a woman is deficient in estrogen and determine if she is estrogen dominant. Continued monitoring of her symptoms and hormone levels at regular intervals while participating in a bioidentical hormone supplementation program will ensure she is enjoying her peri and post menopausal years hot flash free.



In short, hot flashes are a normal part of life for women going through menopause. However, there are both traditional and holistic treatments that can help. I do offer one-on-one consultation and together we can talk about your specific case and plan the best treatment for you.

ON LOCAL EXPERTS

It’s very difficult to express the gratitude I feel…for the wonderful people who choose to work at the Pyramid and to those who use our services, for this growing holistic wellness community we’ve created by coming together, and for the amazing power of living and working within this community that supports mindful living on every level. Every day is a blessing for us, and as we move into our fourth year of business, with tons of new projects and expansion underway, I realize that the greatest achievement of the Pyramid is the assembly of the most diverse, talented team of experts anywhere.


It’s funny…here we are just Margaret, Josh, Tammy, Darlene, Bryn, Mara, Darya, Raven, Alison, Karen, Brad, Jane, Kitty, Tejasinha, Mary, Kammie, Cameron, Gary, Barbara, Scott, Jon, Laurie, Jen, Autumn, etc. But our practitioners and instructors are truly gifted people who are experts in their fields. They are sought after all over the world to present, train, and share their knowledge. They write books and create their own products. They have almost icon status outside of Rutland. And yet in Rutland, they are just regular people who have been drawn to sustaining our mission of providing a quality wellness experience at an affordable price. That is truly amazing to me.

As we prepare to bring yet another internationally known expert to the Pyramid in May (www.JohnHolland.com), it occurs to me what a wealth of expertise exists in our area already…of course I am very proud of the Pyramid team, but I am also aware of the expertise that exists around us at other establishments. I don’t know any other area in the United States that boasts so many experts in one place. Per capita, this means great things for the citizens of Vermont.

Unfortunately, however, many Vermonters have to choose between getting a massage or paying their fuel bills. I am sure it is this way all over the country from what I have heard. But given the particularly challenging social and physical environments here, it seems especially difficult for Vermonters.

For those of you new to our newsletter—I want to assure you that the Pyramid is 100% committed to continuing our mission of providing affordable wellness options. Although times are tough, we know that the world would be a much better place if everyone could experience wellness—so we are creating opportunities.

One of my favorite early Pyramid memories was when I taught a Yoga class where a billionaire was sitting next to someone who had picked up quarters from the laundry mat floor to pay for class. Wellness should not be available just to the elite—it should be available to everyone. The reality, of course, is that we have to charge something for our work. But the idea with the Pyramid is that if we keep the costs low, more people will participate—and that is how we can afford to operate. This is how we can afford to offer the same class you would pay double or triple for at other area businesses for only $6. This is how we can offer workshops for $10 that you would literally pay ten times for at other places. And that is how we can offer monthly health club memberships starting at $20, tax included!

Over the next few months, in addition to bringing top notch guest practitioners and lecturers to the Pyramid, we will be highlighting our very own local experts. Sometimes I am in awe at just what the Pyramid team has accomplished collectively and individually. Did you know that we have North America’s foremost expert on Himalayan salt and that she is debuting a new salt technology at Pyramid Fitness? Did you know that you can experience Mindful Movement Therapy, a brand-new offering by the person who invented it? Or receive Ashiatsu Bar Therapy from one of the very few experts trained in it in Vermont, at one of the few facilities with the bars? Did you know that you could learn how to be a massage therapist through the only program in Vermont that combines distance learning with in-person, hands-on training? The list goes on and on. We don’t have enough space to list the accomplishments of all of our team members…but suffice it to say that it is impressive, and we hope you will take some time to get to know the expertise that exists at the Pyramid and beyond in the Rutland area.

If it’s been a while since you’ve been to the Pyramid, we hope you will check out our new offerings. Either way, thank you so much for reading our e-newsletter. Be well!



William D. Kelley, Ph.D.

Pyramid Holistic Wellness Center

120 and 79 Merchants Row

Rutland, VT 05701

802-775-8080

www.pyramidvt.com

kelleyw@pyramidvt.com

Pyramid Fitness and Oxygen Bar Q&A

After months of anticipation, Pyramid Fitness and Oxygen Bar opened in downtown Rutland, Vermont on December 21, 2010. Lovingly called P-Fit by the Pyramid team, we are very excited to have this new venue and look forward to building a healthy environment where people can work on their fitness in a unique center offering a holistic wellness approach to fitness.

Q: What do you mean by a "holistic wellness approach to fitness?"
A: By "holistic approach," we mean looking at the whole, integrated person through a comprehensive approach to wellness. So at Pyramid Fitness, our members and guests have the opportunity to work on their physical bodies through traditional fitness methods (exercise equipment and group fitness classes), but they also have access to other offerings, such as Yoga and meditation, massage therapy, the oxygen bar, and even a halotherapy room--all designed to help address overall wellness rather than just physical fitness.

Q: Where is Pyramid Fitness located?
A: In downtown Rutland, at 79 Merchants Row. This is the second floor of the building that houses the Boys and Girls Club, and is directly across the street from Three Tomatoes restaurant.

Q: What are the hours of Pyramid Fitness?
A: Monday through Friday, 6 AM to 8 PM, and weekends 8 AM to 3 PM

Q: What equipment do you offer?
A: We currently have a full selection of equipment: StarTrac treadmills, Precor elliptical machines, Nautilus Nitro selectorized weight circuit, an inversion table, a cable cross machine, free weights up to 50 pounds, kettleballs, medicine balls, stretching mats, and more.

Q: What classes do you offer and when?
A: Currently, we offer about 20 classes per week. These are spread throughout the week at convenient times like 9 AM, 12 PM, 4 PM, 5:30 PM, and 6:30 PM during the week, and 9 AM, 10:30 AM, 12 PM, and 1 PM on the weekends. Classes include cardio kickboxing, step aerobics, group strength, core strength boot camp, karate, kabox, meditation, Yoga, and more. In addition, members receive discounts on some classes at Pyramid Wellness Center (our sister facility at 120 Merchants Row in Rutland). Between the two Pyramids, we offer more ongoing classes than any other facility in the Rutland area, taught by the best instructors around. And because our instructors have years of teaching experience, they know how to put together an incredible, safe workout, and our classes promise not to be boring or waste your time. Our instructors regularly change routines and soundtracks, creating a unique fitness experience each time.

Q: Do you have to be a member to use the Center?
A: While it is more economical to be a regular member of Pyramid Fitness, we do offer drop-in guest memberships at $6 per class, $6 for the use of the fitness equipment, or $10 for a day pass.

Q: What types of memberships do you offer?
A: At Pyramid Fitness, we believe that you should only have to pay for what you want to use. With that in mind, we have created several different types of membership packages. For those who just want to use the fitness equipment, the basic price is $30/month. For those who just want to take classes, the basic price is also $30/month. For those who want to use the fitness equipment and take classes, the basic price is $40/month. In addition, we offer a limited discounted membership for those who could come between the hours of 8 AM and 10 AM or 3 PM and 5 PM. These special memberships are $20/month and are perfect for senior citizens and students. Further, we have a deluxe package that includes unlimited everything, plus the use of the oxygen bar, as well as separate oxygen bar memberships.

Q: Do you offer any special group or family discounts on memberships?
A: We believe that our pricing is rockbottom. For that reason, we do not usually discount membership prices further. However, signing up for a year gives members a free extra month, and through our referral program, members can earn up to $10 each month off their next renewal simply by referring their friends and family to P-Fit.

Q: Do you require initiation fees or long-term contracts?
A: Not at all! We do not really understand what an initiation fee is, anyway--a fee so that we can then charge you more fees to use our facility? It does not fit with the Pyramid philosophy of making things as affordable as possible. We will also never make you join for longer than you want. We want our Center filled with happy people who really want to be there. Although many health clubs make their money from selling memberships to people who do not come back, we want to create a vibrant fitness environment with lots of people who love the place as much as we do.

Q: Do you offer full locker room facilities?
A: While we do have private changing alcoves, for many reasons we did not want the traditional locker room environment to be part of the Pyramid experience. Typically, the locker room area is the most troublesome part of a health club for its members and management; often thefts occur in the locker rooms, bacteria builds and is spread via the public showers, fights often break out in the locker rooms, people are often embarrassed or uncomfortable to change in front of others, and sometimes even seedy things can happen in locker rooms. Of course, providing showers would mean that we would have to dramatically increase the price of memberships. We want to keep our focus on providing a high quality facility that is cost-effective to our members, and we can do this much easier without the distraction of locker rooms.

Q: Do you offer child care?
A: We have partnered with our neighbors downstairs, the Boys and Girls Club, and we have worked out a great child care arrangement. During regular school days, we will be able to offer child care through the Boys and Girls Club from 2:30-7 PM (and 9 AM to 5 PM during school vacation days). The best part is the cost--only $1/child or $15 for the entire school year! (Please note that children must be at least 6 years old to use this service.)

Q: What is the atmosphere like at Pyramid Fitness?
A: Our facility is the choice of everyone from brand new exercisers to elite athletes. Everyone is friendly and supportive. This is not a show or a meat market. You do not have to have the perfect body or the perfect workout clothes to be part of the Pyramid family. The environment is relaxing and positive. We do not have televisions because we want you to exercise in the moment and focus on your form, and we never have loud, blaring music. We encourage people who would like listen to music to bring their own personal music player, or we have several MP3 players to loan at the reception desk. Because it is a small facility jam-packed with features, our members get a very efficient, effective workout without a lot of waste.

Q: I would like to join, but I am embarrassed about exercising in front of people. Any suggestions?
A: This is a common situation, and a big reason why people often do not go or do not continue to go to a traditional health club. At the Pyramid, everyone is welcome. We have the bare minimum mirrors so you do not have to look at yourself (except when necessary to maintain good form) unless you want to. We recognize that everyone has to start somewhere, so we have several personal trainers who are available to help you jumpstart your fitness. For those who are very shy, we do offer individual training sessions in our private Personal Fitness Center at Pyramid Wellness. Speak to a guest services member if you are interested in this special service.

Q: I have belonged to health clubs before where you cannot find anyone to help you. Does Pyramid Fitness have people there?
A: Yes! We have a professional guest services staff in your line of vision at all times. Someone is always there to help show you how to use a machine, make sure you are not injuring yourself (we will correct your form if we see you do something dangerous!), and motivate you to keep going. We will even call, e-mail, or text you if we have not seen you for a while! (Extra fee of $5/month applies to this service.) In addition, we have a personal training staff that is second to none. If you want personal service and attention, Pyramid Fitness is really a great choice for you.

Q: Is Pyramid Fitness air conditioned?
A: Yes! Although we believe it is healthy to exercise in fresh air, we do have air conditioning and will use it when it is necessary to create a healthy environment.

Q: What is an oxygen bar?
A: Oxygen bars are very popular in other parts of the country and even around the world, but until now have not been available in Vermont so we spend a lot of time trying to introduce the concept to our guests. Although humans can go three weeks without food and three days without water, we cannot go three minutes without oxygen. Oxyen is a major component of air and is a vital element essential to life, but pollution and other factors reduce the percentage of oxygen in air. An oxygen bar is a place where people can go to take in concentrated oxygen to enhance overall well-being.
The main component of an oxygen bar is the oxygen concentrator--a hospital-grade machine that splits up air into its components; everything else is released into the air, while the pure oxygen is sent into the aromarizer infuser bar. Here, the oxygen is combined with natural essential oils, and the oxygen/essential oil blend is delivered to the guest via nose cannules, similar to those used in hospitals for oxygen.

Q: Are oxygen bars safe?
A: Absolutely! Because the oxygen is mixed with the essential oils and then outside air as you breathe it in through the nose cannules, you are receiving a high quality, safe oxygen blend. We limit our guests to two five-minute sessions per day, which is considered a safe amount by the American Medical Association. Each guest has his or her own nose cannule, making it even safer. Although the Internet is filled with claims about its dangers and ineffectiveness, one Oxygen Bar session will show you what a safe and positive experience this is. (For people will severe respiratory problems, we do recommend talking to your doctor before using the Oxygen Bar.)

Q: What is the Oxygen Bar good for?
A: We must state that the Oxygen Bar is not a medical treatment and therefore we cannot make medical claims about it. Participants understand that the use of the oxygen bar should never replace proper medical treatment. That said, oxygen bars are used around the world for a variety of medical treatments. A simple Google search will pull up some of these. Athletes often use oxygen sessions for improved performance and recovery time. Some people believe that oxygen sessions help eliminate the symptoms of a hangover. Mixing the oxygen with essential oils adds the benefits of aromatherapy. Currently we have wintergreen, peppermint, cherry, lavender, almond, cinnamon, eucalyptus, and lemongrass. Our essential oils are organic and offer a direct delivery of professional grade aromatherapy.

Q: How much does an oxygen session cost?
A: Everyone using the Oxygen Bar must have a nose cannule. You can bring your own, or purchase one from us at $1. For Pyramid Fitness members, each session costs only $2. For non-members, each session costs $5. We also offer special packages--a month of oxygen sessions (up to two per day) is $20 for members or $30 for non-members.

Q: Do you have a sauna?
A: Yes. We have a 1-2 person far infrared sauna at Pyramid Fitness (and a 2-3 person sauna at Pyramid Wellness) that is available whenever the Center is open. For Pyramid members, the sauna is 50 cents per minute; for non-members, it is 75 cents per minute. People using the sauna should bring three towels with them or be prepared to rent them from us--for sanitary purposes, one towel on the floor, one towel on the seat, and one towel to wrap and wipe with. Although the temperature of the far infrared sauna runs lower than a traditional sauna, participants using it for more than fifteen minutes will break a sweat. Unlike a traditional sauna, a far infrared sauna uses the very powerful far infrared light rays rather than heat--so the rays penetrate deeper into the body, offering an excellent detox for our muscles and organs. A simple Google search will reveal the possible medical benefits of far infrared, although we do not personally make any medical claims about it. Pregnant woman and anyone with current heat or blood pressure issues should consult with a doctor before using the far infrared sauna.

Q: What is the halotherapy room?
A: Halotherapy is similar to the Pyramid Wellness Center's Himalayan Salt Cave (www.pyramidvt.com) except that it uses a moist delivery system. The halotherapy room is decorated like an old Polish mine and contains a saline tower that creates a fountain effect. Participants sit in relaxing zero-gravity chairs, or we can remove the chairs and offer massage and other wellness treatments right in the halotherapy room. As participants relax in the halotherapy room, microscopic droplets of Himalayan salt-infused water are spread through the room by the tower and are taken in through the mouth and nose. Again, while we can make no medical claims for this room, halotherapy is used successfully around the world to treat many medical conditions. Our halotherapy room is primarily a relaxation chamber. Like the Salt Cave at Pyramid Wellness, the cost to use the halotherapy room is $10/person/hour. Personalized treatments are available in the halotherapy room for $40 in addition to the cost of the treatment.

Q: Are there other benefits to membership?
A: Yes! Pyramid Fitness members get special disounts on many Pyramid services...$5 off ionic foot baths, special pricing on the sauna and oxygen bar, $5 off massages, $10 off personal training sessions, special discounts on Pyramid workshops, and much more.

Q: This sounds amazing! Where do I sign up?
A: Thank you--we think it is pretty amazing, too! You can stop in during regular business hours to see the place in person and join, and all of our forms are available online if you would like to get that part out of the way. www.pyramidvt.com

Community

It's all about community.

Over the last few months, concerned people have pulled me aside: "Are you sure you want to invest any more in Rutland? There's nothing here! People are leaving left and right, the economy is bad, and there are already some great fitness options in Rutland. The downtown area is crumbling. Why don't you do this somewhere else, like Burlington?"

I appreciate these concerns more than I can say. Believe me, I've thought about them over and over. I've crunched the numbers, I've done research about the current wellness of Vermont and Rutland County, and I've looked at how many people are actually using these fitness options. I know the economy is not as good as any of us would like, and people are having to make very careful choices about what and how they spend. There is no question--this is a challenging time to open a fitness center--or anything--in Rutland.

But those of you who know the Pyramid team members know that we are not doing what we are doing because it is easy, or because we are just interested in making money. We are here in Rutland because we feel a strong desire to help where it is needed. If Rutland is going to become the amazing place I am told it once was, we need to be part of the positive change. We cannot leave because it is challenging. We cannot ignore that Rutlanders now more than ever need MORE healthy options, not less.

We want to create a place where people of all walks of life can come and feel safe and comfortable to improve the quality of their lives. We have worked hard over the last (almost) four years to do that with the Pyramid Holistic Wellness Center and Salt Cave. We've all put our professional and personal lives on the line to create this place. Now, we are again putting our professional and personal lives on the line to create another place...Pyramid Fitness and Oxygen Bar.

While I have lots of great reasons for wanting to open this new facility, the main reason, to be perfectly honest, is that I long for another place where I can work on my wellness supported by a community of like-minded people who also want to work on their wellness. I know--it's purely selfish, I admit.

I want to walk into a place where I immediately feel welcome and at ease. I want to be greeted and feel like I've just come home. I want to know that for the time I am here, I do not have to worry about anything. I can just focus on myself and getting stronger and healthier. And I know that for this time, I will be surrounded by other people who feel the same. It's not a competition or a show...just a place of support and growth. I want to feel like my presence means something, and that my business is appreciated. I want to see smiling faces all around as people set and reach their goals.

And that is what Pyramid Fitness is all about. Do we have 200,000 square feet? No. Do we have 400 treadmills? No. Do we have 500 pieces of fitness equipment? No. What we do have, though, is a very powerful combination of what you really need in a health club in a healthy environment, supported by an amazing customer service and fitness staff.

We've designed Pyramid Fitness to have just enough space and equipment so you get a very efficient workout. We've got the classes that will keep you interested and motivated, and where you will really see results. We've got a customer service staff that is going to work very hard to get to know you, and help you stay focused on your goals. Our fitness team is going to be there when you work out to make sure you are staying on task and that you don't hurt yourself. And of course, although we do not have warehouses full of it, we have top of the line equipment that is always well-maintained. There is nothing like the Nautilus Nitro line of equipment.

Add to that our very unique offerings for Vermont--the far infrared sauna and the oxygen bar, as well as some creatively-packaged memberships, very affordable prices, and convenient hours, and I think we are on the way to creating something very special. There are definitely benefits to being a member of a well-established fitness center, but there are also benefits to being on the ground floor of a new venture; among these, our charter members will have the ability to shape the atmosphere of the club and have input in ways that you just do not have in established businesses. It is definitely an exciting time to join Pyramid Fitness!

To add to the excitement, Dr. Margaret Smiechowski, North America's foremost expert on Himalayan salt and the creator of salt caves around the US, has just announced that she will be introducing a brand new technology to North America called halotherapy, and she will be taking a break from building salt caves to build the first and only halotherapy treatment center in North America--where? Right at Pyramid Fitness!

So good things are happening, and although I have been cautioned, I am willing to move ahead with a focus on the hopes of building a new community of wellness. I do not believe that Rutland is dying...and I believe now more than ever is a great time to provide people with another option for improving the quality of their lives.

Hope to see you at Pyramid Fitness!

William Kelley, Ph.D.
Pyramid Holistic Wellness Center
120 Merchants Row
Rutland, VT 05701
802-775-8080
www.pyramidvt.com
www.massageschoolvt.com
kelleyw@pyramidvt.com
Memberships on sale now!

Can Rutland support another gym? No!

"Can Rutland support another gym?" someone asked over Facebook. "Aren't there already five or six? In this economy, are you taking too much of a risk?"

Some people might wonder if I have finally lost my marbles. Have I finally done too many head stands in Yoga? Why am I risking everything to create this new health facility when there are already many good ones nearby?

The truth is, Rutland CAN sustain all it has already and many more establishments focused on the well-being of the community.

Absolutely--Rutland already has some excellent health clubs and options for helping people get and stay healthy. But it is safe to say that not even five percent of the population belongs to a health club here. The existing clubs have done so much to improve the quality of life for Rutlanders, but there is still so much more to be done as Rutland County still tops off the scales in Vermont for obesity, diabetes, and other such health and wellness concerns.

According to the Southern Vermont Area Health Center, among the 63,331 residents in Rutland County, 22% smoke, 24% are obese, 16% binge drink, and 15% have no health insurance. Further, 165 per 100,000 people die from heart-related problems, 60 per 100,000 people die of stroke, and in all of these categories, Rutland County is bringing up the state-wide averages.

So, sure, there are fitness centers, but these are clearly not enough to spread the message of wellness to a community that desperately needs it.

And that is why we are starting Pyramid Fitness...not because there aren't already great exercise options in Rutland, but because we need more. We need a new mentality towards wellness. Pyramid Fitness is not just a health club or a gym--it is a wellness club. It is a place where like-minded people will come together in an effort to support each other on the path to fitness. Of course we have all of the equipment that makes this easy--brand new, safe, easy-to-use equipment. But we also have the people who will create a new atmosphere.

Pyramid Fitness isn't about wearing the brand name jogging suit or sneakers, or having the perfect body. It isn't about the elite membership fees. And it certainly isn't about filling the place with people who come for a month but pay for the service for a year. In fact, at Pyramid Fitness, we don't want your money if you are not actually using our services. We want to fill this beautiful, newly-renovated space with people who want to be healthy and are going to commit to using our services. In that light, we are going to be offering only a limited number of memberships. We want to create a vibrant community of exercisers, not frustrated people who never come back.

At the Pyramid, our members will be a name, not a number. The goals of our members will be our goals. We are a team. When you succeed, we succeed.

Of course, Rutland cannot support another gym if we define "gym" as a dirty, grungy place with old, broken down equipment where they lock you into contracts and take your money, even if you aren't going, so some off-site owner can take luxury vacations. No, in this economy, Rutland cannot sustain even one of those.

So what we are talking about here is a new breed of fitness club. A place that has everything you need equipment (but not too much--you don't need 40 treadmills--you only need one that works when you want it!), the people with the education and experience to help you define and reach your goals, and the atmosphere that makes it all possible.

And it certainly doesn't hurt that you have access to a multitude of other services--the sauna, the oxygen bar, massage therapy, homeopathy, acupuncture, Ayurveda, personal training, counseling and hypnotherapy, special classes and workshops, and of course, the only salt cave in Vermont.

I know some people probably think I am crazy...but I believe I am simply optimistic about the future health of our local Vermonters. I believe we can do this...I believe we will do this...and I cannot wait to let you know when we open our doors so you can check this incredible place out yourself.

Thanks to all of you who have expressed positive thoughts and support for what we are doing. We do hope to be open in the very near future. Watch for more information coming soon!

Be well!

William Kelley, Ph.D.
Pyramid Holistic Wellness Center

Pyramid Fitness and Oxygen Bar - opening in October!

I was 21 the first time I reluctantly stepped foot into a health club. A very close friend had taken a job at a small Nautilus gym and was excited to show me her new place of employment. Prior to going to visit her at the club, I had actually been afraid of the gym scene. During high school and college I was pretty much a "band geek" and I was sure that fitness was not for me. However, a serious knee injury during my freshman year of college showed me the importance of exercise; had I been in better shape, my injury would have been significantly less impactful to my life, and my recovery time would have been much faster and easier. After the injury, I began working out on my own to strengthen my weak body, but was too shy to go work out in front of anyone else.

Visiting Jackie at the gym was incredibly daunting for me. I can remember the sense of dread as I pulled open the front door. But walking through that door was an incredible crossroads of my life. It was like Dorothy walking through her doorway from the black and white farmhouse to the technicolor Land of Oz.

I found myself mesmerized by the equipment. It looked so complicated, and yet I watched as person after person went to each station, seemingly effortlessly, improving the quality of their lives with each machine. The people looked energized and healthy. They were having fun, being social, and getting stronger and more fit. I knew at that moment that that was what I wanted. And oddly enough, I knew that someday I would also start my own fitness center.

Following this visit, I signed up for the gym and became a regular member. Then when life circumstances changed and I moved on to new things, I always made finding and joining a gym part of what I do. Although I was a bit shy to exercise in front of someone else at first, it quickly became easy and comfortable, and as I got in better shape, I felt my confidence increase. Going to the gym was not only what I did--it was who I am. By 1995, I was managing a 5-star resort's health club and spa (even though I honestly knew nothing about maintaining a pool). Out of necessity, I became certified in teaching all sorts of fitness activities (because instructors and trainers would often call in sick, and as manager, I would need to provide a last minute substitute activity). I later worked as a trainer at a YMCA. In the last 20 years, I have belonged to, taught or trained at, or managed more than twelve gyms--an amazing accomplishment for someone as shy as I am, who couldn't even step into a gym without feeling fear.

When I moved to Vermont in 2000, I was very excited to find many high-quality fitness centers. I quickly joined the staff at Fair Haven Fitness and then later the Gymnasium, where I taught for almost ten years. The call to have my own fitness center was quiet as I enjoyed teaching at these outstanding facilities. However, a recent turn of events has caused me to leave both gyms, and for the first time in 20 years, I no longer have a gym as my second home.

Sure, we have lots of fitness classes, training, and options at the Pyramid. But I have honestly missed the original Nautilus circuit that I fell in love with years ago. I miss the excitement of feeling like you are part of a group of people all wanting to be healthy at the same time in the same place. And so that call to have my own fitness center has returned--this time louder than ever. And this time I am listening!

Although I may be insane to do this in this relatively unstable economy, I have realized that now is the time to open a new fitness center! Through the generosity and help of many people, including the amazing Pyramid staff, we expect Pyramid Fitness and Oxygen Bar to open in early October.

Q: What makes Pyramid Fitness and Oxygen Bar so special?
A: Over the last three years, many of our clients have repeatedly asked us to create a membership-based fitness offering for the community beyond what we already offer. This facility will offer low-cost memberships where you can pick the exact level of membership you want. The equipment will be very high quality, featuring the Nautilus Nitro Plus circuit. Our hours will be convenient, as we will be open every day. The facility will be sparkling clean. It will be both air conditioned in summer and heated in winter. Although located on the second floor, we do have an elevator for those who need it. Most importantly, the facility will be staffed by the Pyramid team members you have come to know--and our customer service will be second to none.
We will also be the only health club in Rutland to feature a far-infrared sauna, and I believe we will be offering the only Oxygen Bar in Vermont.

Q: What is an oxygen bar?
A: Oxygen bars are very popular in other parts of the country, especially in California. These are gathering places that instead of offering alcohol offer concentrated oxygen infused with essential oils.

Q: What are the benefits of the oxygen bar?
A: Many athletes use oxygen before and after workouts to improve performance. However, everyone can benefit from using oxygen because it is believed to improve bodily function, increase energy, enhance sexual pleasure, support weight loss, detox, and improve sleep. Of course, we cannot and will not make any medical claims for the oxygen bar, but we believe that it will bring a big city service to Vermont that has otherwise always been lacking.

Q: Are there any negative effects from or contraindications to the oxygen bar?
A: This is actually a controversial question. Under proper management, an oxygen bar can be safe for almost anyone. However, the problem is that most places that have oxygen bars (like night clubs, airports, etc.) have no medical staff to supervise their use. Pure oxygen intake is actually harmful to people who have lung problems and other medical conditions. Our bar will feature a safe concentration of oxygen mixed with regular air and essential oils, and we will carefully limit the amount of time that people spend using it. In our carefully controlled environment, there will be no safety problems or negative effects.

Q: Is Pyramid Fitness located in your current Pyramid building?
A: No! We are opening a brand new facility in a separate building in downtown Rutland. It is within walking distance from our current location and close to lots of easy parking.

Q: Will you be closing the current location of the Pyramid?
A: No--this is just an expansion of our operations. Everything at the current Pyramid will continue to operate unchanged, including the Personal Fitness Center for those clients who will not feel comfortable working out in the open gym. Some of the classes will be moving to the new gym, but otherwise everything will continue as before. Of course, Pyramid Fitness members will receive special discounts on Pyramid services and massage.

Q: Will you be selling advance memberships?
A: Yes! Watch for announcements. Pre-membership specials will run later in September.

Q: What else is special about your new facility?
A: We will be widely expanding our fitness products and supplements, and new product lines will be available at the new location. We will also not use membership cards (a waste of resources!) but will use an electronic finger print capture to allow entry. Our facility is also going to be a true wellness club--our members will get to vote on which pieces of equipment we buy in the future, etc. We will have lots of holistic classes that are not usually offered in a health club. And we will also have a beautiful massage room in the facility for those who want an on-the-spot massage. And we hope to work with other area health clubs to offer joint special promotions and packages so that the community gets an incredible array of options. In short, there has never been a club like this in Rutland or anywhere!

Stay tuned for more information coming soon...