STAYING FIT DURING THE HOLIDAYS

Stores were closed and parking lots looked empty today in order to celebrate Thanksgiving, but there was one parking lot that stood out. Cars were packed in front of Paradise Fitness and many members were getting in their workout this morning, and looking forward to eating pumpkin pie this afternoon... Jackie Kowalsky, exercise enthusiast, says, "I know I was going to eat alot but I also wanted to be consistent because I usually do on Tuesdays and Thursdays, so I wanted to keep it up so I wouldn`t have to feel so guilty!". Terri Schilder, another exercise enthusiast, says, "Thursday is the usual day that I workout and I`m thankful they are open to give me the opportunity and it`s goofd for my health, so why not? Plus, I`ve already made my pumpkin pie and watergate salad, so why not?". Working out in the morning jump starts your metabolism and allows your body to burn calories more efficiently throughout the day. "In the event that you are going to eat a little extra and take in a few more calories, get your metabolism going a little quicker and it will help your body metabolize those extra calories you take in," says General Manager David Smith. Paradise Fitness had a lot of request to be open this holiday and that`s why they chose to stay open from 8 a.m. till 11 a.m. They believe it`s imporant to exercise off those excess calories people eat today, however they say there are other things that are equally imporant. "We opened a few hours because several members wanted to come in and get their workout done, but it`s really a time to spend with family and reflect on the blessings that you are fortunate to have and just enjoy that time with your family and give God thanks," says Smith. Working out and staying fit is important to both the owners as well as the members, and by allowing the gym to be open this morning, even for a few hours, gave each of them time to get together with their friends, before spending the day with their families. JANA JACOBS-REPORTER WDHN 18