It's Been Too Long!

 This is crazy to admit, but with how life has been since Covid-19, and having a year long break from training clients, I forgot about this blog.

This past year has been busy.  My mother's health got worse, and in November she passed away. Since my dad was already in Memory Care, that left me with giving more attention and visits to my dad.

I had already planned on winding down my career as a personal trainer and retire. As well as being busy with my parents, and my new-budded interest in camping, I was being spread too thin.

So, I let my domains and hosting expire.  As of March, I finally let my IDEA Fitness Association expire. I had this for 12 years, and it served me well.  In addition to having my profile listed there, along with my credentials, I had a newsletter and Facebook presence.  I was surprised that a newsletter went out for me today!  So, if you received it and clicked on the link to bring you here, I'm just letting you know that my internet presence has disappeared if you're searching for a personal trainer.

I am now down to a few clients, but that is doable since I enjoy my clients.  But as of November 2023, I should be officially retired.

COVID-19 UPDATE

 As many of you are aware, our new normal has changed dramatically in the past 8 months. Since this time, due to my client's age groups, I have not been training clients. The majority of my clients are at high risk due to age and many with underlying medical conditions.

I, too am at high risk due to my age. However, my husband is at even higher risk due to several underlying medical conditions.  Both of my parents are in their 90s with health issues.

Because life is the most important thing, I will continue not to train clients until our weather gets cooler and IF my clients are willing to train outdoors.  I will be able to train clients on my patio or at a park or other outdoor location.

During this time, I have been continuing my personal training education and doing what is necessary to keep all my credentials updated.  Some of this has been tricky since some government offices have been closed for visits, etc.

I did have a new experience.  Instead of going somewhere to attend a personal trainer type convention/conference, I attended one online via Zoom. This had it's pros and cons.  

Financially, it was advantageous since I didn't have to pay for a flight or for several days at a hotel.  However, I basically was a captive at my computer for 5 or more hours a day for three days, in my fitness studio. 

But I received a lot of education, inspiration and enjoyed it very much.  I may even attend these for a few more years even after things become safer to travel.

For now, I hope everyone is staying safe and also doing something on a regular basis to keep up with their fitness and health. There are many online sources for working out at home.

I'm looking forward to resuming training my clients. If you are interested in personal training in the future, feel free to contact me.  I am happy to answer any questions.

I wish you all well. Stay Safe.

I GOT MARRIED!

I have gotten married! Right before things shut down for the Corona Virus, I was able to get married!

My new last name is Velez, but at this time, my business name will still remain as Viveca Park, Personal Trainer. At my age, there are so many places to update my name and it has been very time-consuming.  Also, the first place to update your name is the Social Security Administration.  Unfortunately, they were closed.

My business is registered with the state as Viveca Park, Personal Trainer and that is also how each of my county and city license is registered. But more importantly, I've been known online as Viveca Park in relation to my business and search engines, etc. I will keep my business name. 

Currently, I am not training clients since the majority of my clients are over 65 and vulnerable.  We are currently just in the first stage of Phase 1 here in South Florida.  I shall wait and see how things develop.

In the meantime, if you are interested in personal training when I begin training clients again, please do not hesitate to contact me!

Active Aging

We're in "season" here in South Florida, so I've been busy training clients.
The majority of my clients are women, but I do have one male client.

Although the average age of my client is about 74, lately I have started getting more clients in their 40s and 50s. This is great because I can help them avoid some of the issues that can crop up as they near the age of 60. 

As one ages, if one does not exercise on a regular basis, their body can age more quickly. As it does, one can start to feel their age and body parts start to wear out and make their presence known.

Many of my clients in their 60s and 70s have issues that require me to create a workout for them to help reduce these physical issues without causing them any pain or aggravating their condition.

My main goal for my clients over 60 is functional fitness.  Functional Fitness training is leading my clients through exercises that will help their body stay younger, which will help them be able to perform activities of daily living, stay independent longer, and enjoy a better quality of life as they age.

There are many components of functional fitness such as:

Flexibility
Agility
Mobility
Endurance
Strength Training
Balance

I really enjoy getting to know each of my clients and helping them obtain their fitness goals. In addition to getting stronger, they may be need to work on balance or getting up from the floor. 

My passion is helping my clients not only by staying functional as they age, but to make it fun along the way and keep them active for years to come.

New Additions to My Fitness Equipment

In March I was lucky enough to win a monthly contest with Personal Fitness Professional (PFP) magazine! In doing so, in addition to receiving a prize of attending the Functional Aging Summit in June in New Mexico, I also received training for certification such as the FAI Functional Aging Specialist, and others which others which I haven't taken yet.

In addition to these training for certifications, I received some equipment sponsored by various companies. Here is a list of some of my new toys:

Bosu NexGen Pro Balance Trainer from BOSU
Halo Trainer Plus with Stability Ball from Merrithew
Foan Roller and Stretch Out Strap by OPTP
Anchor Point Training Package by APT
ActivMotion Bar by ActivMotionBar


These are some things that I already have:

TRX
Medicine Balls
Stability Balls
Kettlebells
Free Weights
Ballet Bar
Weighted Body Bars
Battle Ropes
Resistance Bands & Tubes
Thane Total Flex
Pilates Power Gym Plus
Bosu
Wonder Core Abdominal
Ankle Weights
NordicTrack Recumbent Bike
Vibration Platform 

My little studio is getting quite full with my fitness toys! My closet is also overflowing! 

This summer, I have some afternoon openings available.  If you train in my studio, you can get your first 2 introductory one-hour sessions for $40. Be sure to tell me you saw this special on my blog when you contact me!

FAI Functional Aging Summit

I have just completed a 2-day Functional Fitness Institute conference in Albuquerque, New Mexico! It was two days jam packed with updated and expanded knowledge in the fitness field dealing with training active aging adults. The information will help to continue to train my clients, so they can function easier with activities of daily living throughout their lives, within their limitations (if any). And in doing so, may help prevent injuries as well as balance issues.

Much of the information had to do with staying active and not to stereotype yourself or others by age, since it is just a number. Many people in their 70's, 80's & 90's may be more active than some in their 40's or 50's, etc.  AGE IS JUST A NUMBER!  

The way you age and feel has to do more with your lifestyle! Being sedentary and isolated can make you age faster. The mindset you have can help you assist in keeping you young.

You can see more pictures and information regarding this conference on my Personal Trainer Facebook Page.

In addition to the information I received from the various workshops and lectures I attended, I was also able to participate in two early-morning exercise workouts. I'm grateful for these since they were using equipment that I have recently purchased.  These workouts gave me a lot of new ideas that I can use with my clients.

One of the highlights of the conference was meeting many personal trainers from other states as well as other countries. It was nice to get to know them, and find out what they do.  Many have attended up to 5 years of the FAI conferences, and I'm pretty sure this won't be my last one since the focus is on training the active aging adult.

I am listening to the keynote speaker in this picture 

(I am the blonde in the front left side of the picture).

New Certifications!

I have been busy, and didn't take the time to post my most recent certifications. So I will post the two most recent ones in this blog post instead of separately.

In April, I studied for and got certified as a Functional Aging Specialist with the Functional Aging Institute. Next week I'll also be attending the Functional Aging Summit for 2 days of lectures and workshops!  I am very excited about this!!!

Previously, I had started the Fitour Primary Group Exercise certification, but had put it on the back burner in order to get certified with The American Council on Exercise (ACE) for the Senior Fitness Specialist Certification program.  I hadn't realized that I really had pretty much finished studying.  But now that I got these two behind me, I got back and reviewed & studied and completed the group exercise certification.

So, now I am freed up to start my next certification program. I think I will take a little break until after I attend the Functional Aging Summit next week in Albuquerque, NM. 

Vibroacoustic Therapy

I got my vibro therapy mat on Thursday night. I set it up as soon as I got home. Since then I've done at least two different 23-minute therapy sessions each day.

One night I chose a program which mentioned it was good for sleep.That night I didn't wake up until 6:30 a.m.  That was remarkable since most nights I wake up at least twice to go to the bathroom.

Vibroacoustic Therapy

I am excited to say that I just tried Vibro-Therapy for the first time.  I had heard about it, and thought it was worth a try, if for nothing else, but relaxation.  I found out that it is good for so many things regarding your health and well-being.

Because I was so impressed, I decided to purchase one for my clients to try. I will use it as a way my clients to wind down after their workout or they can schedule a time to come in for a complete session. 

I should be getting this by the middle of March.

Below is some information I found out about it.

Health Benefits of Sound Therapy

There are a lot of context about sound therapy all over the web and majority of which are not really what it means to be. As a result, people are often confused about what and how “sound therapy” really works.

Elements of Sound Therapy

The process of vibroacoustics or sound therapy is pure “frequency” and “vibration.” The only sound that you will hear is your breathing and the low sound frequencies. Don’t get confused with many sources stating that the procedure includes listening to relaxing music and tones.

These low harmonic frequencies are transmitted throughout the inner body which primarily target the muscular, skeletal and nervous system. These affect the cells, tissues and organs in the body. 

Olav Skille’s 7 Fundamental Sound Frequencies

The range and use of frequencies are vital factors in the procedure sound therapy and seven of it includes:

·         40 Hz - it helps stimulate blood circulation, reduce spasm, increase the amount of sleep, reduce blood pressure and sport injuries.

·         50 Hz - For lung issues Asthma, bronchial conditions, Cystic Fibrosis and Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

·         52 Hz - it helps reduce most of the lower back pains, and menstrual pains. It can also reduce climactic problems and aids in softening of scar tissue.

·         60 Hz - For spasm issues, pain between the shoulder blades.

·         68 Hz- It helps reduces tensions in neck and shoulder muscles. It also heals frozen shoulder and reduces dizziness.

·         80 Hz - It is gentler, and requires less amplitude. It can usually be used for the massage of the small muscles in the hands and feet.

·         86 Hz - it has positive effect on headache, migraine, post stroke therapy and some neurological issues.

With over 30 years of applying sound therapy in Nordic countries, the potential of vibroacoustics is extremely vast. It serves as a natural cure giving value to both wellness and personal growth.

You can get more information at the website regarding the products that are sold, as well as the therapy mat I will be getting. If you are interested in receiving a 5% discount, please contact me for more information.

ACE Senior Fitness Specialist

I am happy to say that I have finished and passed my ACE Senior Fitness Specialist Program! 

Below is what I found regarding The American Council on Exercise on Wikipedia.

The American Council on Exercise (ACE) is a nonprofit organization with global reach that works to improve physical-activity levels by certifying exercise professionals and health coaches, publishing original research, convening experts on physical activity and health, working directly with community groups, and advocating for policies to get people more active. The 80,000 exercise professionals and health coaches certified by ACE help people engage in physical activity and adopt healthier lifestyles.

Silver Sneakers Yoga

Silver Sneakers is a great way for eligible seniors to stay or get in shape.  Not everybody, at any age, is at the same place physically.  Also, many have different exercise or activity preferences.

It is with great pleasure that I am now certified to teach Silver Sneakers Yoga! 

I now have completed the following Silver Sneakers instructor workshops:

Foundations
Classic
Circuit
Stability
Splash
Yoga

However in order to teach a Silver Sneakers Class, I need to be hired at a venue that offers Silver Sneakers. So, that will be my next step...to find a place in my local area of Palm Beach Gardens to teach a Silver Sneakers class!

It's Your Call

When it comes to working out, everyone has their own preference as to what they like to do for exercise. Some people may prefer something more sedate and others may want something a lot more vigorous.

As a woman passes the age of 30, one needs to concentrate on all aspects of fitness. Although, you are still young, with each year that passes, one loses muscle.  This is called Sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss).

Prior to this time in life, one tends to concentrate more on cardio.  However, cardio is very taxing on the body and in the long run, it doesn't help with burning calories as much as strength training does. 

Strength training is the king!  This is because not only does it help you burn calories at a higher rate around the clock, it also helps you stay stronger as you age because it helps to fight the natural age-related muscle loss.

When a woman reaches her 40s or 50s, she may start noticing that she isn't as strong as she used to be.  This is the time to really step up the strength training.  Once she gets into her 60s, she may even start to notice her balance and flexibility isn't what it once was.

Because I am in my 60s, and have worked at my fitness throughout the years, and still notice a difference in my strength, I try to help women work within their capabilities to work on all the various elements of fitness.  I know what the aging body feels like, and I don't push past what is safe.

The tools for living a better quality of life for years to come include the following elements:

Mobility
Flexibility 
Balance
Strength
Endurance
Coordination


By the 60s and 70s, it is rare that one doesn't have any issues with their lower backs, knees, hips, shoulders or ankles.  I can help you work on these areas to prevent possible future injuries.  If you have already injured any of these areas and have already finished rehab, I can assist you in continuing the rehab.

Some of the exercise equipment I have are:

TRX
Medicine Balls
Stability Balls
Kettlebells
Free Weights
Ballet Bar
Weighted Body Bars
Battle Ropes
Resistance Bands & Tubes
Thane Total Flex
Pilates Power Gym Plus
Bosu
Wonder Core Abdominal
Ankle Weights
NordicTrack Recumbent Bike
Vibration Platform 

So you can see, there can be a lot of variety in one's workouts!  You may not use all the equipment, but it is available. I strive to change up your workout from time to keep you from getting bored and keep your muscles from adapting to the workout--which can keep you from progressing.

Our sessions are private in my studio.  You don't have to fight for equipment or workout in a noisy environment.  Alexa helps us have music that YOU like! (To me, music makes a workout more enjoyable!)

Please contact me if you have any questions.  I would love to help you achieve your fitness goals. 

Brains & Balance Past 60

This weekend I'll be attending four NEW Brains & Balance Past 60 workshops.  I'm excited because there is always something new to learn!  Clients' workouts can get repetitious, or they can get bored doing the same thing during each workout.  This helps me to keep things fresh, fun and challenging.

Here are the names of the four separate workshops I'll be taking:

1.  Living Fearless:  Exercise, Balance & Core Strength

2.  Walking Tall:  Mobility Drills for Seniors

3.  The Vibrant Senior:  Putting the FUN in Functional Training

4.  Strong Minds:  Exercise & Cognitive Function

Functional Fitness For The Mature Woman

In our busy lives, sometimes we put other's needs first.  As women, we've been doing this all our lives.  First as children, then as wives and mothers, and even later as caregivers to aging parents.

Let's face it, life is busy, and we can always find excuses to put off exercise.  This is a big mistake!  As we age, we start to lose muscle.  So strength training and exercise is even more crucial than you probably thought. If you don't make time for fitness, you may find that you need more and more assistance doing things that you used to do without a second thought!

In addition to strength training to help you stay independent well into your old age, it is important to work on your balance, agility, mobility, stability and even your cognition. These are elements of functional fitness.

I've taken many workshops which focus on baby boomers and seniors to help with each of these aspects of fitness for the mature body.

Sometimes, in order to be able to put yourself first (for a change), you should schedule your workouts as you would a doctor appointment or a business meeting.  Write it on your calendar, if that helps, and don't cancel.

As an baby boomer myself, I understand a woman's aging body.  My goal is to help a woman get a good workout without the fear of her getting injured. 

Silver Sneakers Classic Workshop for Trainers

I'm excited to find out that a Silver Sneakers Classic class workshop will be held less than 1 1/2 hours away!  I missed taking this when I took the last 2 Silver Sneaker workshops because I thought it would be overkill taking them all at once.

Unfortunately, when the others were taught, they were 5 minutes away.  Now I will have to travel over an hour to attend the workshop.  But I'm thankful that I don't have to wait another year in order to take this workshop. 

This is the most basic Silver Sneakers class.  Many of the clients can be seated, if they need to be. I think this would be a good starting class for me to start teaching Silver Sneakers!

Fun With Silver Sneakers!

I have been wanting to become a Silver Sneakers instructor for the past couple of years.  I'm happy to say that the trainer workshops were finally taught in my town.  I am now certified in the Circuit class and the new Stability class.  I am hoping to find a local gym to teach either of these classes.

August 2016 Studio Updates

Since the last time I posted, I have updated equipment and gotten new equipment for my studio. Since my clients enjoy the Pilates Power Gym Pro, and it wasn't gliding as smoothly as it did when I first got it, I upgraded to the Pilates Power Gym Plus.  It elevates higher, which can make the workout more challenging.

I finally got my TRX wall mount up and have started incorporating more TRX training in my client's workouts.

Last week I got a Pilates Supreme Toning Tower.  It gives a whole new dimension for my client's workouts. I have trained about 5 clients on it so far, and they all love it!

I started taking Pilates classes the past couple of weeks.  As I continue taking classes, I'm learning more and more things I can use with my toning tower not only for myself, but also with my clients! 

Panoramic picture taken tonight of my studio.

Pilate Power Gym Plus in the highest setting.

Pilates Power Gym Plus in the lowest (flat) setting.

Toning tower with sculpting bar attached to the coil springs.

Toning tower with the straps attached to the coil springs.

New Studio Pictures

In the above picture you see a Pilates Chair, Ballet Barre, Kettlebells and free weights.

 The picture above shows my vibration exercise platform and my Pilates Power Gym Pro.

After using a Total Flex for over a year, I found out that it was a knock off of Thane Total Flex.  I found out accidentally, after buying replacement resistance cords that included the leg extension piece and the head rest. At that time, I noticed a big difference in quality! After thinking about this for a couple of months, I ordered the Thane Total Flex.  I am so glad I did since it is a much better piece of equipment.  This picture shows it without the leg extension accessory.

Vibration Exercise Platform

Shortly after setting my new fitness studio, I purchased a vibration exercise platform.  I had done a lot of research on this type of equipment after trying it out at a yoga studio.  My clients use it as a warm up prior to their personal training sessions and for a cool down at the finish of their workout.

One can do various exercises while on it, which increases the benefits.  However, this machine is great for those that aren't able to exercise because it helps with balance, helps circulation, and helps the muscles work passively.

It is a great addition to my studio, and everyone that has used it, loves it.  I use it every day myself. In addition to standing, stretching or exercising on it, I sometimes also use it as a massage while lying on the floor, for my calves, quads or hamstrings!

New Fitness Studio Space

I have moved and now have a designated fitness studio space!  I'm excited now to have one room where I can keep all my equipment and my clients can work out!

I also now have a vibration plate exercise machine and a ballet bar!

I am still in Palm Beach Gardens and also still near Central.  I'm off Hood Road, halfway between Central and Jog.