December 20, 2005

MECKLENBURG PARK AND RECREATION FITNESS CENTERS: CHECK THEM OUT FOR GOOD HEALTH IN THE NEW YEAR

Get moving in a healthy direction for the new year.  Take off extra pounds gained during the holidays. Tone up, slim down, feel great.

Mecklenburg County operates eight fitness centers to help encourage better health for its citizens Paid for partly by tax dollars, they are run by Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Department. These fitness centers offer a variety of cardiovascular workout equipment, exercise machines, and free weights. Some offer aerobic classes, yoga classes, and personal training.

"It's proven that regular workouts make you healthier," says Jammal Acker, a county employee who often works out at the fitness center in Ray's Splash Planet.  "You feel better and you look better."  He says the fitness center is always clean, and it's rarely crowded.

Park and Recreation fitness centers are located at:

• Mecklenburg Aquatic Center, 800 East  2^nd Street, 704-336-3483
• Ray's Splash Planet, 215 North Sycamore Street, 704-432-4729
• Bette Rae Thomas Recreation Center, 2921 Tuckaseegee Road, 704 393-7333
• First Ward Recreation Center, 610 East 7^th Street, 704 336-3375
• Tuckaseegee Recreation Center, 4820 Tuckaseegee Road,  704 399-4492
• West Charlotte Recreation Center, 2400 Kendall Drive, 704 393-1560
• Southview Recreation Center, 1720 Vilma Street, 704 392-7452
• Mallard Creek Recreation Center, 2530 Johnston-Oehler Road,  704 548-8234

The centers charge fees for use, but their cost is generally lower than commercial and institutional gymnasiums and fitness centers.  Fees vary, depending on the equipment and facilities. Call the center nearest you for details or check the parks department Web site  www.parkandrec.com, then click on "Fitness Centers." Come and visit if you like. These fitness centers could be the ticket to a new you.