Medically Oriented Gym Concept

By Ellie Sweum, PT

Healthcare providers are constantly trying to develop new, effective, cost-conscious ways to meet the population's medical and fitness needs. Let's look at the statistics.

Diabetes is the fifth leading cause of death in the U.S., with over 15 million people suffering from the disease

15-20 billion dollars are spent annually in direct osteoporotic healthcare costs

2 million American teens and children are considered obese

58 million adults are overweight and 40 million adults are obese

1 in 3 adults suffer from high blood pressure

Some changes seem past due and necessary.

What do each of these diseases have in common? Besides the fact that they each, directly or indirectly, can cause premature, preventable death, they each respond positively to exercise. Exercise as part of a prescription can prevent, manage, or lessen the effects of the above-mentioned diseases processes, plus many others.

A Medically Oriented Gym, or M.O.G., is a one-of-a-kind, community based, family-oriented fitness and health facility that bridges the gap between medicine and fitness. The M.O.G.'s vision is to deliver a culture of fitness that is safe, non-intimidating, scientifically-based, and will be a valuable part of the member's life. A M.O.G. will also provide an opportunity for the medically compromised community member or first time exerciser to experience the tremendous benefits from exercise and the commitment to making healthy lifestyle choices.

A Medically Oriented Gym is specifically designed to empower its members and improve lives through fitness, wellness, guidance, and care. A M.O.G. moves away from the do-it-yourself fitness experience and provides the client an opportunity to work with licensed, highly-trained physical therapy staff. The goal is to reduce the negative effects of disease and be part of the team that makes it possible for members to live with long-term good health, using comprehensive assessments, personalized exercise programs with technique monitored and adjustments made for appropriate progression, group classes, and educational seminars.

Exercise is medicine. Everyone from fit to frail would benefit from this highly successful model. Exercise is not a fad. With the clinical evidence about the relationship between exercise and disease constantly accumulating, the need for and benefit of exercise is undeniable. It is time for you to be a proactive participant in your own healthy lifestyle.