The Matrix Connection Vol 2 Issue 5

Toll-free: 866.693.4863 Volume 2, Issue 5 August 1, 2006

www.matrixfitness.com

MATRIX CHOSEN FOR TOP UK SOCCER STADIUM

Story provided by International Subsidiary, Johnson Health Tech UK.

Johnson Health Tech (JHTUK) has recently installed over 90 pieces of Matrix cardiovascular and strength training equipment in the two floor health and fitness suite at the Coventry Arena project.

There is also a full program of exercise classes, a relaxation area fitted with sauna, steam room and Monsoon shower along with a full range or treatments and therapies.

Local community groups have access to the health and fitness suite which can facilitate 3,000 members and covers 20,000 square feet, with spectacular views of the stadium and pitch.

The former gas works site stretches for a third of a mile and includes a 32,000 seat soccer stadium, 91,000 sq ft exhibition and concert facility, a major conference centre and 1,000-person banqueting suite (the first of its kind for the city). Another first is a casino which is the only purpose built regional casino in the UK. A hotel has been built by the arena and the rooms that overlook the football pitch convert into executive boxes on match days.

The state-of-the-art facility is run by Coventry Sports Trust. Jez Thornton-Clarke, Project Manager commented by saying, “Matrix not only offered a great value package but the stunning design of the equipment will add a contemporary look to enhance the appearance of the gym and create a WOW effect as prospective members enter the fitness suite”.

COMMON BARRIERS TO FITNESS

Given the health benefits of regular physical activity that we touched on last month, it is hard to believe that two out of three Americans are not active at the recommended levels according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Barriers such as time, motivation, injuries and self confidence hold Americans back from being or becoming regularly physically active. Understanding common barriers and creating strategies to overcome them may help you make physical activity part of your daily life.

Barrier: Lack of Time

Create a weekly calendar and identify available time slots. Start out with three 30-minute time slots. If you don’t have 30 minutes, break up your routine into three 10-minute segments. Gradually build in more time slots as you become more comfortable.

Make getting ready for a workout effortless: pack or lay your clothes out the night before, cue your exercise video so all you need to do is push play. If you are prepared in advance you won’t have any excuses.

Barrier: Lack of Energy

Whether it be lack of energy from your current exercise regimen or your lack of motivation to get started, keep in mind studies show that exercise will improve your mood and give you more energy.

It is natural to grow weary of a repetitive workout day after day, especially when you’re going it alone. Join forces with friends, relatives, co-workers and neighbors to help encourage you to reach your fitness goals.

Check out classes or sport leagues at a recreation center or health club. Many facilities offer the latest and most popular classes ranging from dance to yoga. Change your work out from day to day, concentrating on both strength and cardio. Don’t just use the treadmill; rotate between the elliptical and cycle as well. Health clubs will be able to offer the largest selection of equipment options and will be able to support you along the way.

Barrier: Fear of Injury

Don’t let fear of injury hold you back. Choose an activity that you are confident in. If you aren’t sure what that might be, start simple. Walking is something that you can do with friends or alone. You can also increase the pace and distance when you become more confident with your abilities.

Some health clubs also offer exercise classes for beginners, designed for people who are new to an activity. You may also want to consider working one-on-one with a personal trainer. Get a customized fitness tutorial from a certified expert who can monitor your movements and point you in the right direction.

Barrier: Travel

If your job keeps you on the road, you know how challenging it can be to stay fit and trim. Make use of the time at the airport by walking. Stay at a hotel with a fitness center or one located near a fitness facility that offers day passes. Lastly, try to maintain your usual exercise routine. If you’re used to early morning, noon or evening workouts, try to continue getting your exercise at those times.

Don’t let barriers hold you back.

" If you can find a path with no obstacles, it probably doesn't lead anywhere."

-Anonymous

No permission is required to use this article from The Matrix Connection Newsletter for local or educational purposes.

AROUND THE WORLD WITH MATRIX

NORTH AMERICA

University of California Recreation Center Santa Barbara, CA

Square Footage: 40,000

The UCSB Recreation Center is used by approximately 4,500 people per day. The facility features racquetball, a climbing wall, an indoor roller hockey arena, state of the art swimming pools and four separate fitness equipment areas. In addition, there are also two outdoor field turf soccer fields.

The 40,000 square foot Rec Center is comprised of two buildings, one older and one completed a little over a year ago. With natural lighting, plenty of floor space and tall ceilings, members enjoy a wide variety of fitness options within the spacious facility.

"This place is so much quieter than before." - Student, UCSB

"These units are beautiful." - Student, UCSB

ASIA

Joy Fit Nigata, Japan

Square Footage: 32,000

Opened in May 2006, Joy Fit already boasts an impressive 4,000 members. The multi-level facility includes 2 fitness equipment areas, a swimming pool, sauna, Jacuzzi and classroom. Matrix Fitness products were chosen because of the beautiful design as well as being unique and stylish.

"The design and function have great reputation with our members. We are grateful to have Matrix products in our facility." - Mr. Nakamura, Joy Fit

EUROPE

Living Well Gouda, Netherlands

Square Footage: 3,500

Living Well is a fitness facility with a high level of personal training. Other amenities include group exercise classes, spinning and physiotherapy. Matrix Fitness products were chosen because of the great biomechanics and ease of use.

"With Matrix products, I can offer my members the best workout possible." - Quinten Wiegers, Living Well

WHAT'S NEW AT MATRIX

Matrix has announced the promotion of Mark Theisen to Central Region Director of Sales. “Mark has consistently outperformed targets since joining our team a year ago,” says Vice President of Sales, Kent Stevens. “His great industry experience and passion to help our dealer partners grow their business has proven to be a great formula for success. We look forward to having Mark utilize his talents in an expanded role in the Central Region of the U.S.

In other personnel movement, Roy Crocker has joined the Matrix team as the Southern California Territory Manager. “The rapid growth that Matrix is experiencing has led to the expansion of our sales team and specifically, the need to hire a manager for Southern California. Roy brings 10 years of industry experience and high level energy with him. We are thrilled to have a quality person like Roy representing Matrix.”