The Mountaineer

Anyone who is not aware of the variety of programs and fitness equipment available at Haywood Regional Health & Fitness Center will have the opportunity to tour the facility from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 5, at no cost.

The center’s annual open house will be offered to the public for one day only. Guests can tour the center, meet the staff and enter a drawing for a free six-month membership. The initiation fee will be waived on the purchase of a six-month membership Dec. 5, with monthly dues drafted from a checking account or credit card. From Dec. 6 through Jan. 4, the center will reduce the initiation fee by half, also with monthly dues drafted from a checking account or credit card.

“Our award-winning center is unique in the area. What sets it apart from other fitness centers is the medically based programs and services offered,” said director Scotty Setser.

The 54,000-square-foot two-story facility offers a wide range of group exercise programs and strength training classes for people of all ages. From Tai Chi to yoga, the center offers 73 group fitness classes each week. Hours vary to fit most people’s schedules.

Another area of intense activity at the center is its six-lane indoor heated swimming pool — the popular site for water aerobics, swimming lessons and lifeguard training, as well as recreational swimming. Above the pool is an indoor track and at the opposite end of the main floor is a well-used gymnasium.

Personal trainers are available at other times to help fitness center members get started, answer questions and stay motivated to reach their personal fitness goals.

When it’s time to wind down, several massages are available at the Haywood Regional Health & Fitness Center, from deep tissue, Swedish, reflexology, lymphatic and hot stone massages to the newest offering of Thai massage. Two massage rooms are in the swimming pool area; where clients can enjoy a spa-like atmosphere complete with a sauna, steam room, whirlpool and personal showers.

Health programs concerning diet and nutrition, stress management and the latest information on medical issues are offered on an ongoing basis. The center is also home to rehabilitation and cardiopulmonary services and the Diabetes Treatment Center.

Fitness center hours are 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 5:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday; 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; and 1 to 7 p.m. Sunday.

For information about the fitness center, call 452-8082 or 452-8081. Family and corporate rates are available. Nursery reservations can be made by calling 452-8064.