Thumbs UP

Last week I had the honor of presenting the Thumbs UP Award at Edgewood Elementary.  UP=Unique Potential.  The students were recognized for adhering to four factors which allow them to reach their Unique Potential and achieve Thumbs UP!  The four factors are:  Focus, Friendship, Fitness and Framework.  Focus on the job at hand.  Multi-tasking isn't always the best tactic for success.  Sometimes it's best to narrow your focus.  Be IN the moment.  Friendships and family are especially important when overcoming obstacle and celebrating victories.  Always take time for the people in your life, not just during the holiday season.  Fitness includes how you fuel your body and your activity level.  Check out Ms. Kitty Morgan.  The picture below was taken last week during one of her morning workouts.  She schedules her activity before her workday begins, to ensure she gets it done.

 

Which leads us to the final F=Framework.  Have you been neglecting your wellness because "life" gets in the way?  At some point, the neglect will begin to impact your ability to live life.  The time commitment you make to wellness will add quality to your life.  I encourage you to take time to reflect on the first semester of our school year.  What have you done to ensure you reach your Unique Potential? Empowerment is an incredible opportunity.  Empowerment gives your life a Thumbs UP!  Think about our mission statement as you look forward to second semester. 

 

Opportunities to Move Second Semester

The M Class= It's not too late to join.  As of today:  18 relay teams are complete, 31 people will be running the 1/2 marathon.  Relay teams must be registered by Jan. 9.  Team captains will be registering teams but individuals must pay the individual fee before captains can complete the registration process.  $ due to team captain by Jan. 7.  Half marathoners-I spoke with Mercedes Marathon race director, it is important that you go ahead and register  b/c the race will  be sold out soon.  Get that registration done ASAP.   Monday Mercedes Training on the Shades Creek Greenway. 4pm start in HHS gym parking lot.

 CrossFit:  ITF, The Movement is announcing the second semester session.  We have a few openings.  Email me if you are interested!  Hurry, this availability won't last long! 

Spinning:  Wednesday's 4:15pm and Friday's 6am 

Zumba:  Edgewood Thursday's 3:45pm and NEW CLASS OPENING AT HHS-Our very own Stacee Fairley is a certified Zumba instructor.  Classes will be Wednesday afternoons.  Email me if you are interested. 

Riviera Fitness:  Will be offering Cardio Kickboxing and Bootcamp classes on site at our schools.  Email me if you are interested. 

Body Fat Blast:  This year our weight loss competition will be about body fat assessment.  Riviera will offer onsite testing to coincide with this year's competition.  Email me if you are interested. 

Reach your Unique Potential:  Be Thumb's UP!  See you in 2013. 

Keep Moving.#hwdmoves

Last week I had the honor of presenting the Thumbs UP Award at Edgewood Elementary.  UP=Unique Potential.  The students were recognized for adhering to four factors which allow them to reach their Unique Potential and achieve Thumbs UP!  The four factors are:  Focus, Friendship, Fitness and Framework.  Focus on the job at hand.  Multi-tasking isn't always the best tactic for success.  Sometimes it's best to narrow your focus.  Be IN the moment.  Friendships and family are especially important when overcoming obstacle and celebrating victories.  Always take time for the people in your life, not just during the holiday season.  Fitness includes how you fuel your body and your activity level.  Check out Ms. Kitty Morgan.  The picture below was taken last week during one of her morning workouts.  She schedules her activity before her workday begins, to ensure she gets it done.

Which leads us to the final F=Framework.  Have you been neglecting your wellness because "life" gets in the way?  At some point, the neglect will begin to impact your ability to live life.  The time commitment you make to wellness allows you to add quality to your life.  I encourage you to take time to reflect on the first semester of our school year.  What have you done to ensure you reach your Unique Potential? Empowerment is an incredible opportunity.  Empowerment gives your life a Thumbs UP!  Think about our mission statement as you look forward to second semester. 

 

Ms. Morgan Training for Mercedes

Opportunities to Move Second Semester

The M Class= It's not too late to join.  As of today:  18 relay teams are complete, 31 people will be running the 1/2 marathon.  Relay teams must be registered by Jan. 9.  Team captains will be registering teams but individuals must pay the individual fee before captains can complete the registration process.  $ due to team captain by Jan. 7.  Half marathoners-I spoke with Mercedes Marathon race director, it is important that you go ahead and register  b/c the race will  be sold out soon.  Get that registration done ASAP.   Monday Mercedes Training on the Shades Creek Greenway. 4pm start in HHS gym parking lot.

 CrossFit:  ITF, The Movement is announcing the second semester session.  We have a few openings.  Email me if you are interested!  Hurry, this availability won't last long! 

Spinning:  Wednesday's 4:15pm and Friday's 6am 

Zumba:  Edgewood Thursday's 3:45pm and NEW CLASS OPENING AT HHS-Our very own Stacee Fairley is a certified Zumba instructor.  Classes will be Wednesday afternoons.  Email me if you are interested. 

Riviera Fitness:  Will be offering Cardio Kickboxing and Bootcamp classes on site at our schools.  Email me if you are interested. 

Body Fat Blast:  This year our weight loss competition will be about body fat assessment.  Riviera will offer onsite testing to coincide with this year's competition.  Email me if you are interested. 

Reach your Unique Potential:  Be Thumb's UP!  See you in 2013. 

Keep Moving.#hwdmoves 

 

Shared Blog from Chelsey

http://chelseymcentire.blogspot.com/

 

The Movement Blog this week is a "Shared Blog" from Chelsey our ITF, The Movement coach.  Please take a moment to click on the link above to read her story regarding a lifetime of fitness.  Chelsey has gained impeccable perspective after a comeback from a knee injury.  I'll keep my info short to encourage you to read her story.

Mercedes Marathon:  The M Class is still looking for participants.  I will be creating the relay teams this weekend.  If you are still interested but failed to respond to the Patriot Point Tally Card questionnaire, please email me asap to let me know your interest (5K, 10K, 12K, half marathon or full marathon).  Once teams are formed, I will email the information shared by Nancy Ferren at our Bell Runners meeting.  This option will allow you to run (or walk =) for a reason! Monday Mercedes Training will begin on December 3 at 4pm at HHS.  We will meet in HHS gym parking lot.  Runners and walkers are welcome.  Training plan for 12/3 will only require a  30 minute time commitment. GET THERE!

Please check the Calendar tab on the Blog for updates for Spin/Zumba/Gann's Clan/ and ITF, The Movement.

Tight race for the Patriot Point Challenge this week.  We had our first ever four way tie-Edgewood, HMS, HBOE and SCES.  The tie breaker is participation increase.  Edgewood "edged" team HMS by a score of 11.76-11.00!  Congrats to Edgewood for winning Mr. Movement.  Patriot Point Trophy-delivery will be Friday.

 

 

Walktober Results

Systemwide Top 10 Finishers for Walktober Challenge:

Genie Christian= 786, 641 steps, 393.32 miles

Laeri Boyd= 679, 409 steps, 339.70 miles

Lauren Luckie= 573, 759 steps, 286.88 miles

Christa Webb= 495, 951 steps, 247.98 miles

Johnny Scott=455,830 steps, 227.92 miles

Lana Wakefield=448,546 steps, 224.27 miles

Tommie Whetstone=431,297 steps, 215.65 miles

Christi Martin=392,316 steps, 196.18 miles

Carol Reamey=379,058 steps, 189.53 miles

Jason Kennah=375,544 steps, 187.77 miles

Total Mileage for Walktober HCS= 8,188.41 miles

If you would like to know your individual stats just shoot me an email!

The total mileage of our finishers was equal to 2.75 trips from California to New York.  The competition started with 76 employees.  When the challenge was completed on Oct. 31st the High Steppers at each school/worksite were the following:

HBOE=Patti Atkinson 120.2 miles, 3.9 miles per day

Hall Kent= Vanessa Parks 137.7 miles, 4.4 miles per day

Homewood Middle=Christi Martin 196.2 miles, 6.3 miles per day

Edgewood= Christa Webb 248 miles, 8.0 miles per day

Homewood High=Laeri Boyd 339.7 miles, 10.96 per day

Shades Cahaba=Genie Christian 393.3 miles, 12.68 miles per day (This is the approximately the distance from the Alabama state line to Panama City Beach!)

The CNP staff won the step challenge over the Custodial Staff at HHS.  As a result of the Walktober challenge, you can now catch employees such as Cheryl Joynt on the Patriot Path during her break-walking laps instead of sitting down.  You can also catch Kitty Morgan and Angela McKenzie walking on the Shades Creek Greenway before clocking in to work. Another great example of how Walktober made an impact was a report I got from SCES.  One of our participants asked her class to remind her to "MOVE" if she had been sitting for an extended time frame.  The students in her class got a great lesson on the powerful message from "The Movement".  We are all in this together!  Keep Moving!

Congrats to all participants.  If you have a pedometer, you may keep that as your reward for participating.  Continue to take steps toward wellness.

Keep Moving.

 

 

 

November 1

Welcome to November.  Quick Blog update to ask you to assess your progress.  Where are you in your "walk with wellness"?  Remember it's not a quick fix, it's a lifestyle.  If you are looking for a quick fix, it's just never going to be that simple.  How about a goal?  A goal to help you through the Eating Season also known as the Holiday Season.  Last year we had over 100 employees participate in Mercedes Marathon.  Yes, it was cold.  Yes, it was hard to carve out time to train.  Yes, it cost a little money (but the money goes to a good cause).  BUT, the end result for those who participated was a medal and a sense of accomplishment that really can't be described.  The morning of Mercedes last year, the temps dropped to below freezing.  It's normally about 40 degrees, but we woke up to temps in the teens.  It was so cold, I actually saw a gentlemen with frozen hair (sweatsicles).  BUT, no one can say that after completing their MM they wished that hadn't participated.  Don't miss out on an opportunity to be a part of this event.  Please email me if you want to be a part of a training group.  5K, 10K, 12K, half marathon and full marathon options are available. 

HMS hosted Mr. Movement trophy for the PPC Week #7.  They will be giving up the trophy this week to HHS! 

Opps to Move next week:

Wednesday: 415-5pm Spin

Thursday: 3:45pm Zumba at Edgewood

Friday:  6am Spin

Tue/Thu Gann's Clan and ITF, The Movement are at capacity.

 

PR's, WOW's and Kitty Morgan

Dr. Desiree Smith had just arrived at HHS as a new administrator.  She looked over the class schedules and needed to make a few adjustments in the math department.  She brought Kitty Morgan into the office and explained to her that her class schedule would change for the upcoming school year.  The math department at HHS required a few adjustments to "ensure our students would have the opportunity to reach their potential."  Ms. Morgan sat patiently and quietly listened to her new challenge.  Ms. Morgan is always up for a challenge, doesn't back down from hard work or the need to make adjustments in her life to be the best she can be for HHS.  As Dr. Smith, finished up her explanation, Ms. Morgan began to smile.  You see, Ms. Kitty Morgan-one of the hardest working members of the custodial staff, happens to have the same name as Ms. Kitty Morgan our former math department chair.  Kitty Morgan, custodial staff member, wouldn't be comfortable in the confined space of a classroom.  Instead, she needs to be in a large area such as the space provided by the entire campus at HHS for her career path.  Really, she's more comfortable out on the trail or South Lakeshore where she trains for 5K's.  She has now completed four 5K's over the past year.  Her finish times continue to improve, her strength continues to improve, the weight loss is steady and her constant smile is a reflection of her healthy lifestyle.    Not only has Ms. Morgan made those adjustments, but she now has a training partner.  Ms. Angela McKenzie is another member of the custodial staff at HHS.  Ms. McKenzie has completed two 5K's since beginning her fitness endeavors in October of last year.  One of the best things about The Movement is watching as we continue to expand to more participants and the best recruiting tool we have is each other.  On the bus ride back from the Susan Komen-Race for the Cure, I decided to challenge Ms. Morgan to once again "reach her potential".  Mercedes Marathon training begins now.  If you see Ms. Morgan out on the trail, ask her if she is training for the 10K, 12K or Half-Marathon.

I hope you are asking yourself that same question.  If you are aiming for a 5K, you need 8-10 weeks to be comfortable running the 5K.  For the 10K or 12K you need 8-12 weeks, dependent upon your current fitness level.  For the half, you need 12-14 weeks.  For the full you need 16-18 weeks.  Mercedes Marathon weekend is February 15-17, 2013.  Set your goal, reach your potential:  Start training now.  If you are interested in this Movement event, stay tuned for team information in next week's blog.

WOW=Workout Of the Week.  Gann's Clan, ITF:  The Movement and the Afternoon Outlaws have been posting some incredible numbers and times.  Now, we will offer the WOW.  Anyone can participate, on their own.  Just check out the tab above for the workouts posted for Gann's Clan and ITF: The Movement.  If you beat the leader board time posted feel free to shoot me an email or Tweet your success to #hwdmoves.  The competition is fierce and makes us all stronger.  For Gann's Clan:  Pam White is an athlete you will be chasing.  She has proven to be on the top of the leader-board for many of our WOD's.  In Gann's Clan, some of the athletes to watch out for are Tyler Burgess, Megan Laney, Teri Varnado, Alison Glover and Maggie Stoffregen.

Congrats to HHS on their second win of the 2012-'13 Season of the PPC.

Walktober leader after week two is Genie Christian at SCES.  BUT, watch out, as I am blogging, I currently see the runner-up Laeri Boyd and his dog, Ozzie making laps past my kitchen window!

Opportunities to Move this week:

SPIN Class at HHS:  Wed. 4:15-5pm and Fri. 6am-6:45

Gann's Clan and ITF: The Movement-Tue/Thu at capacity

Open Gym: Afternoon Outlaws at HHS Mon/Wed. 3:30-4:30

Zumba:  At Edgewood Elem. Thursday 3:45-4:45pm

Keep Moving.

 

W2WW=Fun, Fitness, Friends

[caption id="attachment_888" align="aligncenter" width="768" caption="W2WW"][/caption]

Nancy Scruggs and Mary Jane Coker took full advantage of the Nat'l Walk to School Day last week.  When Nancy topped the hill coming from Vestavia on Columbiana headed toward Hall Kent Elementary, she had no idea that Mary Jane was topping the same "hill" on Hwy 31 coming from Vestavia headed to Shades Cahaba!  Yep, both of these ladies were amongst the 118 employees who decided to hoof-it to work on Wednesday of last week.  So many great stories came from our first Walk 2 Work Wednesday of this school year.  Congratulations to all participants.  Let's don't make this a one and done practice.  The Movement will organize a few more W2WW throughout the year with our participating coffee stops (by the way, be sure to thank O'Henry's, Hart and Soul and Homewood Diner), but you don't have to wait on those special occasions.  Walking to work is as simple as deciding to plan ahead.  Did you know Homewood is Alabama's Most Walkable City?  If you live outside the city of Homewood, here is your plan to take advantage of our Walkability.

Hall Kent:  Park your car at Patriot Park, walk to work and back to your car after school.

HMS and Edgewood:  Park at Central Park, walk to work and back to your car after school.

SCES and HBOE: Park at SOHO, walk to work and back to your car after school.

HHS:  Park at Brookwood Mall, walk to work and back to your car after school.

This practice of walking allows you to add movement into your daily routine.  Eventually, the movement becomes part of your healthy lifestyle.  One of the HBOE teammates has decided to use walking as her exercise to coincide with Iron Tribe training.  The two-mile loop she measured near her home, is the perfect addition to the muscular strength/endurance and flexibility training plan she has added with ITF/The Movement.  Way to go, Dr. Betty Winches!

Walktober Challenge:  Be sure to post your total number of steps in the provided space on the PPC card.

PPC Week Four Winner:  HBOE hosts Mr. Movement Trophy for the second time this year.  Edgewood finished in second place with a great week of points.  KEEP MOVING!

RACE FOR THE CURE, OCT. 20:  Your PPL is recruiting members for our HCS, The Movement team.  This is a walker-friendly event.  Our goal is 100 participants from HCS.  Transportation will be provided if needed (must have at least 20 people interested in the bus transport).  This event is perfect for anyone who has never participated in a 5K.  Please register asap to allow race packets to be delivered to your school.

Movement Opportunities:

No Spin Class this week

ITF and Gann's Clan: Tue/Thu. -at capacity

Open Gym aka Afternoon Outlaws:  HHS- Monday/Wednesday 3:30pm until

Zumba:  Edgewood- Thursday 3:45

Walktober & Nat'l Walk to School, Oct. 3

October 3, W2WW: 

Join The Movement for our first HCS Walk to Work-Wednesday, Oct. 3.  This event is in conjunction with National Walk to School Day.  Our employees will model a healthy lifestyle as we meet at our school/worksite and walk together to enjoy coffee at our participating "Cup for a Buck" coffee locations.  Talk to your PPL for details about departure time to allow employees to be back on campus on time for the start of class.  (PPL-HHS:  Jenny Harvey, HKES: Abby Becker and Emily Strickland, Edgewood: Jamie Wilson and Carrie Baguley, SCES: Genie Christian, HMS: Cristy York, HBOE: Elizabeth Nesmith)

If you are interested in a Tshirt: We have a few sizes still available.  HURRY.  $10

Hoot Hoot! #PPC Winner:

Patriot Point Challenge winner was SCES this week.  Everyone improved on at least one category.  Keep Moving.

Walktober: Step count challenge

Monday, October 1 will begin our pedometer challenge.  If you do not have a pedometer, they are on sale at Wal-Mart  for $3 (one of our HBOE peeps shared this info).  Practice using the pedometer over the weekend.  Wear the pedometer as soon as you wake up in the morning until you go to bed at night!  EVERY step counts.  I realize there is some degree of discrepancy in the accuracy for any pedometer.  Don't get too caught up on the EXACT number of steps.  This tool will give us a close enough proximity to each of our step totals.  The goal is to make better choices about your "movement".  Park farther away from your normal parking space.   Stand up and greet your students as they enter the room.  Walk to the next office space or classroom and communicate instead of emailing.  Walk your dog an extra lap.  All of those decisions add up to more steps and more movement.  2000 steps = one mile.  A great goal would be 5 miles=10000 steps.  If you already get that in your day, a good goal would be to increase to an additional mile per day.  Each day starting Monday, October 1 jot down your daily step count.  Clear the pedometer and start at Zero for the each day.  When you get your Patriot Point Challenge hyperlink on Monday, October 8, there will be a "Walktober Challenge" space for your weekly step count.  Add up the seven totals you had from that week and plug in the seven-day total on the "Walktober Challenge" space.  Can't wait to see who the champion MOVER is for October!!!

Classes for next week:

Check out The Movement calendar above for fitness classes.  Spin participation has been incredible for the past four rides.  Hope to see you all again next week.

Additional Class option 3:45-4:15pm spINTENSE:  30 minutes training plan for Monday's.  We need to have a great turnout for this Monday class to continue to be an option.

Keep Moving.

spinspur

 

 

HCS Walk to School and "Walktober"

 

WALK TO SCHOOL WITH HCS EMPLOYEES:

 

Wednesday, October 3 is National Walk to School Day.  HCS employees are asked to join The Movement in celebration of teaching and working in Alabama's Most Walkable City: HOMEWOOD!  If you don't live in Homewood, no worries, we will park at school then walk to the coffee shop and back.  Your Patriot Pack Leader will be distributing specific information for your school/worksite.  This event is a systemwide Casual Day for everyone participating in the walk.  Commuter Challenge Tshirts are on sale for $10.  Wearing your Commuter Challenge Tshirt and participating in the Walk to School qualifies you for a "Cup for a Buck" at our participating Coffee Stops (HHS:  Brookwood O'Henry's, Shades and HBOE: Downtown O'Henry's, Edgewood and HMS:  Hart and Soul, Hall Kent:  Homewood Diner.  Everyone is invited, no purchase necessary.  We just want you to WALK!  (Biking and Running also acceptable).

 

Walktober Competition:  Which HCS employee will take the most steps during the month of October?  Any employee who wishes to participate will need a pedometer.  I have a few available thanks to Mr. Thorne, who secured a sponsor- Pat Smith at Title South.  Pedometers are a relatively cheap way of encouraging you to "Get Moving".  Dick's, Academy and Wal-Mart all have pedometers available.  Wear you pedometer daily, log your steps, and you can even Tweet to #hwdmoves if you want to challenge other peds.  Be sure to log your steps weekly on the Patriot Point Tally card.  There will be an additional blank for your weekly step count.  2000 steps equal one mile.  A great goal to shoot for would be five miles per day.  It's challenging, but a worthy goal!

 

Let me know if you need a pedometer, while supplies last!

 

See you on October 3rd as we celebrate National Walk to School Day.

 

Week #2 Winner of PPC:  HHS won the tie breaker!  Close race so far, Keep Moving.

 

Opportunities to Move this week are posted on The Movement Calendar tab above.

Another Close Race

HHS squeaked by HBOE this week.  The Patriot Point Trophy will make the trip back to HHS.  Week 3 Opportunities to Move are posted on the calendar.  Please check the calendar for updates on classes.

 

Homecoming Parade #hwdmoves

Join The Movement at 3:30pm on Thursday, Sept. 20 at Homewood Library.  If you have any gear from The Movement, (Spirit Scamper shirt, M Class, Official Movement Gear etc.) please wear it.  If you don't have anything, but would like to purchase something, I'll bring some $10 Tshirts to the parade.  If you just want to walk,  but don't have or want any gear, just wear comfy clothes and join us. The goal is to represent wellness for our community, earn a Patriot Point and have fun on an easy stroll while people cheer for you!  Hope to see you there!

Keep Moving!

Winner of Week #1 PPC

Patriot Point Challenge (PPC) week one winner is HBOE.  Only two points on the BIG SCOREBOARD separated 1st and 2nd place.  District-wide we have a 7% improvement in participation when comparing our first week from last school year to this school year!  So everybody deserves a pat on the back.  Thanks PPL for enouraging your team to participate. 

ITF and Gann's Clan:  If you have noticed some of our employees slowly walking down stairs, carefully holding on to the hand rail, it could be they are one of the participants in ITF or Gann's Clan.  Remember eat clean and hydrate!

Spin Class Report:  Congrats to This Team and That Team on a great race in Spin Class.  Next week we will offer Wednesday 4:15-5pm and Friday 6am-6:45am Spin Classes.

Mindful Movement: "Yoga" Join HKES in this incredible opportunity to work on flexibility, breathing and relaxation, 6:30am, Wednesday at HKES. (Bring a mat if you have one)

Zumba:  Plan on being at Edgewood Elementary at 3:45pm on Thursday of next week.  I will confirm with Kelly, our Zumba instructor, to be sure we are ON.

Thursday Homecoming Parade:  Please join us Thursday at 3:30pm for lineup at the Homewood Library for the Homecoming Parade.  $10 The Movement Tshirts will be available if you would like to rep The Movement! WE NEED at least 20 PEEPS to make an impact!  So far we have 12 peeps committed!  Come on!  Join us and earn a Patriot Point.  Email me if you are interested. Kids and spouses welcome to join in!

Check The Movement Calendar and Race Tab above for updates on classes and other upcoming events!

 

Meeting Man vs. Moving Man

Here's a tale of two administrators.  This week the administrative team at HHS began a pedometer challenge to determine how many steps each individual principal takes during the school day.  I decided to only allow the steps counted between 7:30am and 3:30pm to factor in to the total steps.  So far, we have results from Latta Johnston and Matt Kiser.  Latta wore the pedometer on a day when he hosted our "INstructional" meetings which created a seated environment for him for most of the day-step count=1600.   Matt wore the pedometer on a day when his duties involved moving around the building, monitoring student behavior and other tasks which allowed for a high step count= 9200.  If Latta relied on just his normal daily activities to maintain fitness, he would struggle to prevent the chronic diseases associated with limited movement.  Instead, Latta starts his day with a five mile run.  Matt, covered almost that same distance in his normal daily activities.  10,000 steps = 5 miles, which is a good goal for fitness.  Matt also supplements his day with scheduled exercise.  What does your day look like in regard to "Movement"?  Do you supplement your normal physical activities with the 30 minutes of exercise the CDC recommends? (If you missed last week's video, go back and watch it!)  Next week we will start the Patriot Point Challenge.  I will be visiting each school during the month of September to explain the details of this year-long competition to determine which work site averages the most time spent exercising.  There are two very important adjustments to the competition.  First, instead of an hour of exercise equalling one Patriot Point, we will allow 30 minutes = 1 Patriot Point.  This coincides with the CDC's recommendation for 30 minutes of scheduled exercise six out of seven days for an adult.  Your goal this year is to average 6 or more Patriot Points per week.    The Patriot Point week begins on MONDAY and continues through SUNDAY night.  The second adjustment to the competition involves scheduled exercise.  In the past, some of our participants have counted physical activity as part of the Patriot Point Challenge.  This year please focus on scheduled exercise.  Scheduled exercise is time that you carve out of your day to focus on fitness.  Walking your dog, or chicken does count.  (Can you guess which teacher in the English department at HHS has pet chickens?)  So start counting up those Patriot Points on Monday morning, September 3rd thru Sunday night September 9th.  You will get the hyperlink to the Patriot Point tally card on Monday, September 10.    If you are new to our school system, please talk to a veteran or email me if you are confused.  I'll be at your school to explain the details soon, but wanted to get the competition started asap!

Please click on the calendar for details of upcoming races and fitness opportunities.

ZUMBA announcement:  Thanks to Ms. Simpson and Edgewood-Zumba is coming back!  Stay tuned for the scheduled time frame/space.  The class will require a minimum participation of 10, so please take advantage of this opportunity to earn Patriot Points.

SPINNING:  Next week's schedule is Wednesday: 4:15-5pm Intervals, Friday 6am-6:45am Strength Ride

CrossFit/ Gann's Clan:  Tuesday/Thursday 6am-This class is at capacity.

Keep Moving,

SpinSpur

Happy New Year! - OWN it

Welcome to 2012-13 edition of The Movement Blog.  This is the place to find info about upcoming races (see the tab above), fitness classes (calendar tab above), announcements about the weekly Patriot Point Challenge trophy winner and other awards/incentives for employees.  I want to first challenge you to find at least one part of The Movement to "own".  Maybe your goal is to train for one of our team events such as Komen, Race for the Cure, Mercedes Marathon, Relay for Life 5K, Bike for Bagwell or the Spirit Scamper!  Those events are planned throughout the school year and give you a framework for training for 9 months.  Email me if you need a Couch to 5K or 10K plan or if you would like to join our soon-to-be-announced walking or running teams (stay tuned).  Maybe you would like to attend a fitness class (Zumba is coming soon, CrossFit classes include Gann's Class -am class-currently at capacity and IronTribe Fitness-one pm class already at max, working on filling an additional pm class, Spinning is ongoing, check the calendar for class times).  Maybe you are ready to accept our Commuter Challenge-pedal, walk or run to work nine times including the Fall and Spring Community Commuter Challenge-earn the T-shirt!  Maybe you want to keep it simple and create a personal fitness plan to include walking your dog daily or pushing that stroller full of love aka your toddler daily.  Maybe you are interested in our Kickball League, I'll be coming to your school for a promo soon!  Maybe you want to begin to "eat clean" and hydrate.  Whatever your fitness/wellness goal is, I am available to help you become your best: email me and let me help you "reach your potential".  Our mission statement is pretty clear.  Our job is to help our students be the best they can be.  The ONLY way this is possible is if you are at your best.  You deserve it, your students deserve it and your family deserves it.  If the first week of school with students left you feeling a bit overwhelmed, please take time this weekend to think through "owning" your life.  Homewood City Schools is the best school system in the nation.  That's why we are so compelled to bring our best daily.  The only way you can continue to be your best is if you are at your best.  Watch this video which I posted last year.  Dr. Cleveland shared this with me and it speaks volumes to the commitment to be your best.   23 1/2 hours.  Plan your work, work your plan!

http://youtu.be/aUaInS6HIGo

Check out The Movement Calendar

[caption id="attachment_622" align="aligncenter" width="600" caption="Chief Roberson Leading the Pack"][/caption]

Summer fitness opportunities from The Movement are posted on the calendar at The Movement Blog.  Spin classes are open and "just show up" is the way to go.  The Gann's Clan Summer CrossFit classes are at capacity and accepting no new members at this point.  If you made the cut for Gann's Clan you should have received an email confirming your spot on our team.  If you didn't get the confirmation email, please let me know via email at nspurlock@homewood.k12.al.us

 

Keep Moving!

Status update from Lisa Thomas and Grace Ann

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Status update from Lisa Thomas and Grace Ann:

-I had a very proud moment when Grace Ann looked at me during the 5K Scamper and said, "Thanks, Mom! This is a great way to start a day. Thanks for not bailing. I know Elliot's stroller is heavy. You're doing great. We'll finish because Team Thomas doesn't quit...ever (insert the fist pump that she gave)!"

 

This is what  The Movement is about.  People encouraging people to develop a healthy lifestyle.  A culture change within our community to support each other in wellness.  Lisa T. got a little encouragement from her daughter, Grace Ann, during the Spirit Scamper. Grace Ann "gets it".  Sometimes we as adults get so busy with life, we forget to take care of ourselves and each other.   We tend to fail in the development of healthy lifestyles b/c we don't fight this thing together.  The Movement, offers HCS employees, students, parents and community a chance to be healthy individually and encourage interaction among all stakeholders.  Those of you who crossed the finish line at the Spirit Scamper, should have celebrated!!!!!!!!!! But, if you will notice, that finish line was pointed in the direction of the starting line.  The Movement never stops, get back to the starting line and keep Moving to your next finish.

 

HCS Stats for this year.

3.2 years of exercise=Total hours of exercise turned in by HCS employees is equivalent to 3.2 years of nonstop movement.

862 Participants=Record breaking year for Spirit Scamper

Fit n Fueled Winner=Justin Bowby, lost 19.2% body weight and 55 lbs.

MVP's selected from each team:

SCES=M. J. Coker EES=Lindsay Cook, HKES=Amy Williams, HMS=Mary Paris, HHS=Pam Laseter, HBOE=Elizabeth Nesmith

Patriot Point Challenge Winner=HBOE.  Very close second was SCES.  HHS third place, Edgewood fourth place, HMS fifth place and Hall Kent sixth place

Golden Shoe Award:  HKES has achieved Back-To-Back wins in this competition.  The Golden Shoe (Dr. Cleveland's Bronzed Sneaker) is a trophy awarded to the school with the highest percentage of student participation in the Fun Run at the Spirit Scamper!  Special shout out to Alissa Thurmond and Justin Bowlby who have inspired and encouraged the HKES students to participate in this event.

The Movement Medal If you completed 4 races and the Spirit Scamper for a total of Five, you are eligible.  Please email your completed races to me.  I will order medals to be presented during the first week of school next Fall.

May is Bike to Work/School Month.  I'll be Tweeting for the next two weeks, my morning tour of  Homewood Coffee Shops, via bike commute to work.  Rides will be on Mondays and Wednesdays.  This week, meet ya at Hart and Soul in Edgewood, Wednesday @ 6:30am.   Quick cup of coffee and conversation as we pedal to our different worksites.

Summer Spin:  Schedule will be Wednesday afternoons 4:15-5pm and Friday mornings 6-6:45am.

CROSSFIT ANNOUNCEMENT:  (EMAIL nspurlock@homewood.k12.al.us if you are interested)

When:  June 4-August 16th, Tuesday/Thursday 6:30-7:15am

Where: HHS

Who:  Doug Gann is our certified CrossFit Instructor.  He will train veterans as well as rookies.  If you are interested in an incredible training program, this is the one for you!  We will start with a baseline WOD (Workout Of the Day) and progress through 18 scheduled training plans.

 Get in Gear with The Movement: 

2012-'13 we will launch our Tshirts, shorts, sweatshirts and other "Gear" for The Movement.  I'm super-excited about this opportunity to become even more of a team.  If you have ideas for logo design, please email your thoughts.

 

Less is More and Bike for Bagwell

Have you noticed the change at HMS over the past few months?  At the 10 week weigh-in for HMS Weight Watchers group, the participants have lost a total of 124.6 lbs!  This is a great testament to the fact that teamwork and accountability = SUCCESS!  Way to go HMS.  Special thanks to Ms. Lewis for getting this going!

Another success story is happening before our very eyes at Hall Kent Elementary.  Coach Justin Bowlby began participating in before school fitness activities with the students, this jump-started his weight loss.  He has registered for the Spirit Scamper 5K and is in the "running" for the Fit n Fueled Champion!  Good luck to all participants in Fit n Fueled.  If you are still, in it to win it, be sure to visit your school nurse for final weigh-in the morning of May 4th.  SpinSpur's Progress:  144.6=Starting Weight, 139.0=Current Weight.  Winner will be announced at the Fitness Fair, May 4th 6-8pm at HHS.  Check out the Spirit Scamper tab above for details.

BIKE FOR BAGWELL:  If you knew Linda Bagwell, you understand why we honor her with this upcoming special event.  Linda was a constant smile, never had a bad day at work, always ready to lend a helping hand and loved by all who knew her.  Three years ago when we started Bike for Bagwell, it was to honor Linda in her fight with cancer.  A few months after our first B4B, Linda lost her battle with cancer.  Her fight lives on during this special event for HCS.  On April 25th at HMS and April 27th at HHS, Spin bikes will be pedaled non-stop in an effort to bring in as many donations as possible in conjunction with Relay for Life.  Buckets will be placed on the handlebars of the bikes.  We will be asking for donations from HMS on April 25 and at HHS on April 27th.  Please join in the fun on this very important event.  We will host a pep rally at HHS on the 27th at 2pm.  It's a program that will feature our Fine Arts department and award-winning showchoir.  Mr. Thorne and top 10 nationally ranked The Network will perform.  We will also recognize cancer survivors, caregivers and those battling the disease.  Please email Justin Cannady if you are available to be a part of our program as a survivor or caregiver.  If you aren't available to attend, please email your name and how cancer has touched your life.   1000 HHS Patriots will be there to cheer for you!  Awareness is a focus of this program but another goal is to let our kids know they are not alone.  So many of our students are impacted by this disease.  We will also have a special guest on campus.  Alex Swader is an 11 year old philanthropist and cancer survivor.  Alex started his own fund-raising efforts with "Tapping out Childhood Cancer" in conjunction with Dancers Fighting Cancer.

 He is using his talent in tap dance to win the battle against childhood cancer.   After the pep rally, join in and walk from HHS to Homewood Central Park for the Relay for Life community-wide event.  If you are interested in walking to Relay for Life, please email me for details.

Spin Schedule for next week:

Monday Spin 4:15-5pm (this class has been great lately, thanks to all who are showing up to Spin)

Wednesday Bike for Bagwell at HMS

Friday Bike for Bagwell at HHS, Pep Rally at 2pm, Walk to Relay for Life 3pm, Relay for Life at Central Park, 4pm until....

 

March Madness

MARCH MADNESS battle for Big Scoreboard Points:  Each of our work-site based teams have turned in registration forms for the Spirit Scamper.  Congrats to Shaping up Shades for recruiting the most early registered participants.   This adds 10 points to the Big Scoreboard for the Owls.  Congrats to HHS for winning the second challenge which involved Patriot Points.  Patriot Point tally from the beginning of the school year was compared to the current tally to determine the most improved worksite up to this point in the school year.  This adds 10 points to the Big Scoreboard for HHS.

Special Spin Announcement for next Big Scoreboard Challenge:

+10 will be added to the Big Scoreboard for the team who has the most people show up for Bring Your Own Bike (BYOB) ride on March 26!  This will be a special ride as we take our Spin class for a Spin!  4:15pm on March 26th, we will hit the trail for a 30 minute outdoor ride.  HHS has 7 bikes available for you to reserve.  (email me if you wish to reserve your ride).  If you have your own bike, please BYObike.  Not a biker?  No problem, just BYOShoes for a walk/run out on the trail.  This is a birthday bike ride for one of our veteran Spinners.  Please RSVP (shoot me an email) so I can plan for refreshments after the ride!

IPod Shuffle Winner:

Congrats to Laura Kapp for winning the drawing for the Ipod Shuffle from Showcase Spirit Scamper registration.

Fit n Fueled, Weight Loss Challenge:

Happy Halfway Point:  SpinSpur's Progress=144.6, 144.0, 140, 142, 142, 141, 141, 140.  Total loss 4.6 lbs.   Slow and steady continues to be my mantra.  I was completely blown away at Showcase when I saw one of our competitors and recognized his/her progress.  23 lbs.  So many success stories are out there in HCS employee wellness regarding weight loss.  If you have lost weight over the past three years and have been successful at maintaining your weight loss, please shoot me an email with your total.  I would love to have a grand total of lbs. lost systemwide!

Staycation: Red Mountain Park info:  http://www.redmountainpark.org/

If you can't make a vacation part of your Spring Break, please consider a "Staycation" at our very own Red Mountain Park.  This past week in Spin Class, we took a virtual tour of the park.  Lots of trails full of history of Bham mining and soon to offer Zip Lines for a tree top tour with great views.  Below is a pic from the Spin Class virtual tour.  The park opened this past week!

Relay for Life starts tomorrow

 

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RELAY FOR LIFE:  HHS will host The Kickoff for Relay for Life Homewood 2012  tomorrow.  The 9am 5K event is for runners and walkers.  Make plans to attend and hear Jennifer Andress,speak about her battle with cancer. Jennifer, a Homewood mom was featured on the cover of Runner's World Magazine.    Relay for Life is a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society.  After the Race:  Riviera Fitness in Homewood is offering  "Free Sampler Classes".  Everyone is invited to check out Body Pump, Kickboxing, Body Step, Spinning, Zumba etc.  Classes are FREE and feel free to bring a friend/family member with you.

 

Fit n Fueled:  I am Blogging my 15 pound adventure.  My goal is to drop 10-15 lbs over the next 14 weeks.  Week One Progress:  144.6  to 144.0 I lost .6!  Hope all of the participants stepped on the scale and saw a great first week of progress.  If you missed week one but want to join in, please visit your nurse today!  LAST CHANCE!

 

Mercedes Marathon Update:  100+ runners and walkers in The “M” Class will soon take to the streets of Bham in the 26.2 mile challenge.  Continue to train and look for an email next week about our informational meeting scheduled for Wednesday, February 8^th at HHS.

 

Fitness option for Moms and children: Mommy and Me Fitness is available at OLS Family Life Center gym near Homewood Park on Wednesdays at 9am and Saturdays at 10am.  We accommodate women of all fitness levels, and children ages 2 months and up.  Classes are designed especially for Moms, but include women of all ages and stages of life!  Visit our website for more information. http://www.mommyandmetime.com/

6am Basketball on Fridays @ HHS: Don’t forget your “Hoop Dreams”.  You missed a chance this morning to get in a run while having fun!  GET HERE.

Spin Classes:  Tough week on the bikes!  Great job with our Anaerobic Threshold Training, Climbing and Race Day rides.  Congrats to Elizabeth Nesmith on winning the Race Day Sprint to 92% of Max Heart Rate, Congrats to Hall Kent for winning the “Highest Participation” Award in class this morning.  Welcome to our new riders:  Kasi T., Ken. A., Jim R. and Bob C.!  New riders include Homewood’s Top Cops who are Fit for Fighting Crime!!  Next week we will ride on Monday 4:15-5pm.  No other Spin Classes will be available next week.  Make your way to Monday’s Ride for some steep hills and a finish near the top of Mentone!

Patriot Point Trophy:  HHS will host the trophy as they enjoy their second win of 2012.  Great job to all our employees posting points.  If you haven’t joined our Patriot Point Challenge, it’s time for you to get Moving and start posting!

 

 

 

Hoo Hoo Hoo won the Patriot Point Challenge?

Patriot Point Update:  Go Owls!  You are the winners of The Patriot Point Challenge this week.  HHS enjoyed the Trophy for the first time this year, but the Owls are back in the game.   The trophy will be delivered to SCES on Monday. 

IronTribe Update:  If you noticed some of your friends at work walking a little differently on Friday, it could be that they were one of the 10 employees who took the challenge and came to "Bring a Friend Day" for our CrossFit workout.  We had 24 employees for our 6am Thursday class.  Thanks for coming.  Remember to stretch, drink water and maybe get in a little run or walk this weekend to help with DOMS=Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness.

Fit and Fueled Update:  Today was our first weigh-in.  If you didn't have a chance to weigh-in, we will allow Monday/Tuesday weigh-ins next week.  Don't worry about the $25 entry fee for now.  It's been a long time since we got paid =)  As of yesterday, our winning total was $675 dollars based on interested employees.  Highlights of the program include, weekly weigh-ins, doughnut delivery from Coach LeBlanc to anyone who is in the competition,

Weight Loss Competition: Fit and Fueled aka Fund Ashton's Future

Quick update from "The Movement" 

Weight Loss Competition:  How's that New Year's Resolution coming along?  Do you need a friendly competition to keep you honest in your weight loss goals?  Good news:  We start up next Friday, Jan. 20th with our first weigh in.  Your chance to win $, your chance to finally succeed and your chance to become healthier and happier .  EMAIL ME ASAP if you are ready to make a change in your life.  We had 10 respond to last weeks Blog with interest.  The more participants, the more money in the payoff!  $25 participant fee required.  All money will be awarded to our overall winner.  Incentive awards along the way to keep you motivated.  Please help Coach LeBlanc pay for Ashton's future.  See picture above.  FYI, Coach LeBlanc is really competitive.

Relay for Life 5K Jan. 28:  If you haven't registered do so ASAP.  See last week's blog for registration info.

Free Spin Classes!    Where have you been?!  Get in to Spin, blast 400 Calories per ride.  Next week's Schedule- Wednesday 4:15-5pm and Friday 6am-6:45am.  Congrats to our rookie recruit, Ken A. for a great first ride this morning.

Tweet the Streak: #hwdmoves  Our final Tweet the Streak starts TODAY!  (January 13-February 11) Join us on Twitter for accountability, motivation and fun.  30 consecutive days of exercise, 10 minute minimum daily.  Drawing for winner after 30 days.  @spinspur

The "M" Class:  We have over 100 people participating in Mercedes Marathon!  Relays, Halfers, Full-Marathoners included.  If you are still interested, please let me know.  We have a few slots remaining to fill on relay teams.

Keep Moving!