McKinney, Texas, USA

INNOVATION AND RESEARCH

In 2006 Dr Kenneth Cooper, known throughout the world as “the father of aerobics”, opened his second aerobics centre. Just like the original facility in Dallas, this new structure fully reflects the belief of this preventative health pioneer who has dedicated his life to studying the relationships between cardiovascular fitness, health and longevity. The new facility spans 7000m2 and boasts the full range of equipment from the Technogym Excite and Kinesis lines. Furthermore, its fitness and nutrition programmes exemplify the spirit of innovation and scientific research promoted by its founder. The centre is located 35km north of Dallas, in an area known as Craig Ranch.

The site extends over 1,000 hectares and also includes a golf course, which is owned by the PGA Tour and managed by the TPC (Tournament Players Club) network.

LOSE WEIGHT BY CHANGING YOUR LIFESTYLE

The Cooper weight loss programme is intended to bring about a permanent change in people’s lifestyles. Participants are subjected to an initial medical and psychological evaluation, to pinpoint factors which may interfere with successful weight loss. They subsequently work out once a week with a personal trainer, attend weekly classes to learn about healthy lifestyles and receive dietary advice from a dietician. Kinesis has been integrated into the programme as an essential exercise tool.

LAUREL’S STORY

Laurel Holmes is one of the centre’s shining success stories: she joined the Cooper Weight Loss Program in February 2007 and by June had lost over 18 kg, more than 20% of her total body weight. She attributes much of her success to Kinesis, recalling that during the first session she almost didn’t manage to complete the full cycle of exercises at the lowest level of resistance. Just three months later, not only could she complete three circuits, she had also increased the resistance level. “I appreciated the fact that it was so easy to master and that I could train at a level which suited my capabilities.” Laurel Holmes reserved special praise for the way in which Kinesis engages different muscle groups, remarking on how it had improved her range of movements in such a short period of time. “The group classes were really stimulating: they encouraged me to believe in myself and helped especially because I knew that I could count on the moral support from the others in my group.”

IDEAL FOR GOLF

Kinesis has become an integral training tool within the Junior Golf Program at TPC Craig Ranch. The participants spend six weeks training with Kinesis at the Cooper Aerobics Center. The equipment, which improves their balance and flexibility, forms part of a programme developed in collaboration with the Director of Instruction for the TPC network. The programme is designed for youngsters but the Cooper Aerobics Center is aiming to adapt it to suit clients of all ages.