We all have those "good ol' days" that give us a feeling of nostalgia, but some of those memories may be holding you back when it comes to weight expectations. Read the latest Wellness Corner blog from Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Tad Taggart and learn why trying to recapture those "good old days" may be holding you back.

It’s pretty clear that when you go to a session with a personal trainer, you’re going to work out. Likewise, you talk with a therapist, get your teeth cleaned at the dentist, and get your eyes checked at the optometrist. So, what the heck happens in a dietitian session?

In this series of Healthy Habits blog posts, we'll provide valuable insights into creating healthy habits that promote a healthy life, including aspects of physical fitness, mental well-being, and emotional balance

Welcome to our "Staff Spotlight" series! In this collection of ongoing posts on The Western Blog, we shine a light on the incredible individuals who make Western special! From passionate trainers & instructors to knowledgeable nutritionists and tennis pros, and many other dedicated staff members, we'll introduce you to the talented team behind the scenes. Learn about their expertise and background, plus some fun facts!

BMI or Body Mass Index has long been the go-to metric used to determine whether an individual falls within a "healthy" weight range. But after decades of using it as a standard practice in the health and fitness world, there is now a growing understanding that BMI is actually fraught with error and inconsistency and is rarely a great measure of health.

Sometimes just beginning a journey is the hardest part. Taking that first step into the unknown to change your life can be scary, which is why, at Western, we try to foster an environment of education, support, and results for people at every level of fitness, no matter their goals.

Olive oil is a staple in many kitchens and is well known for its distinct flavor and versatility in cooking. However, did you know that olive oil is also a powerhouse when it comes to health benefits?

We all know good sleep is essential for overall health and wellness. During sleep, the body repairs and rejuvenates itself, and the brain consolidates memories and learning. Lack of sleep has been linked to a range of health issues, including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and mental health problems like depression and anxiety. Good sleep also plays a crucial role in regulating mood, increasing productivity, and improving cognitive function.

The TRX Suspension Trainer is one of the fitness industry’s most versatile and effective pieces of equipment. Created in 1997 by Navy SEAL officer Randy Hetrick and patented in 2005, the TRX has taken the fitness world by storm, creating a whole new modality — suspension training.

In honor of April being Parkinson’s Awareness month, recognizing the 5-year anniversary of our Rock Steady Boxing program, and celebrating my 5th year as a Rock Steady Boxing coach, I’d like to share my personal story about Parkinson’s Disease and the impact it has had on my life.

In Wisconsin, we know that sunlight is a precious resource in the winter. With our long work weeks, busy school schedules, extracurriculars, and other hobbies, it can be hard to soak up enough sun during the colder, darker months of the year. Unfortunately for us northerners, we get most of our intake of Vitamin D from exposure to sunlight, which can be challenging during the winter. In fact, it’s so hard for us to get enough sunlight in the winter months that Vitamin D deficiency is endemic in Wisconsin.

You may have heard tennis referred to as the "lifetime sport" or the "sport of a lifetime" because of its ability to provide people with a lifetime of physical fitness, as well as mental stimulation and social opportunities in every stage of their life. Being a "lifetime" sport means you can likely play tennis well into old age, but it's also the perfect sport for young children who are just beginning to build their exercise habits.

Have you been wandering sluggishly through the past week, yawning in meetings, wishing you could get a little shut-eyet eye? You’re not alone.

This month, in honor of Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month, we're featuring Western’s Special Projects & Programs Director, Katie Kane, and her experience living with multiple sclerosis.

Sometimes it’s the little things that make all the difference. The cherry on top of the milkshake. The little massage at the hair salon. The mint on your pillow when you get to the hotel. The extra luxuries are what can elevate an everyday experience into something special, and that includes at the gym.

Sometimes just beginning a journey is the hardest part. Taking that first step into the unknown to change your life can be scary, which is why, at Western, we try to foster an environment of education, support, and results for people at every level of fitness, no matter their goals.

When it comes to seeking nutritional advice, finding an equipped, experienced, and educated professional goes without saying. There is a lot of misinformation about nutrition out there, so consulting with a registered dietitian/nutritionist (RD/RDN) can help clear up misconceptions and make sure you're receiving accurate information that's relevant to you and your lifestyle.

Advice for what to eat, when to eat, and how to eat can be confusing and conflicting. I’ve talked to many people that say the amount of nutrition information out there tends to be more overwhelming than helpful.

Chances are if you know me or have been a member of Western for a while, you already know about my LOVE for rowing. Here is where it started and here is where I can help you find the love for indoor rowing, too! It all started at a fitness conference outside of Chicago in 2013…

Do you feel like your life is on hold until you reach that particular body goal? You’re not alone – the lines between an individual’s body, body image, nutrition, and overall happiness blur all too often.