The Fitness Center at University Hospitals Avon Health Center offers the opportunity to try five different group fitness classes for free

By Laura Briedis

For Katie Gazley, “mommy and me time” with her two young sons includes a trip to the gym a couple times each week, where she attends group exercise classes while the boys do their own fun activities.

Though she may not consider herself a fitness buff, she likes to keep in shape and joined The Fitness Center at University Hospitals Avon Health Center three years ago—the day her youngest son turned six weeks old.

“I have always enjoyed working out and strive to live a healthy lifestyle,” says Katie, a Westlake resident who works in financial services. “I have belonged to other workout studios and city recreation centers in the past but joined The Fitness Center in Avon after my second son was born because it provides child care for children as young as six weeks old.”

Now ages three and five, her sons look forward to going to Kids Club as much as Katie loves the group exercise classes.

“The boys like to socialize with other children and do different crafts, read books and play outside,” she says. “Because there hasn’t been any staff turnover since we joined, they know all the caregivers by name.”

Katie also gives kudos to the fitness instructors who help motivate her in class.

“I love working out in a group setting and enjoy the camaraderie with other fellow gym goers,” she comments. “It feels like a community and makes working out more fun.”

Although Katie also jogs on the indoor track, runs on the treadmill and lifts weights, she especially enjoys Intensity Spin, Pound Fitness, Cardio-Muscle Mix and BodyStep.

“I like when someone tells you what to do instead of having to come up with workouts on your own. This way it truly is a release for your mind when an instructor is directing you,” she comments. “The instructors feel like my peers because they also are moms with the same demands I have, so they understand me and motivate me.”

When asked which of the 125 weekly classes at the fitness center is her favorite, she said it is impossible to choose, just like it is picking a favorite child, because you love them all for different reasons.

“I encourage everyone to try out group exercise classes here,” says Katie, who is setting a good example for her boys by instilling in them the importance of fitness. “Don’t be intimidated to come to a class as the instructors always show modifications for beginners. And we are all very supportive.”

The Fitness Center at University Hospitals Avon Health Center is located at 1997 Healthway Drive in Avon. Tour the facility and learn about membership opportunities. Call 440-988-6801, or visit UHhospitals.org/Fitness for details.