Category Archives: health and fitness

Health and Fitness, is important to living a healthy life. Learn the newest research from our Press Releases today.

BurnAlong Launches Next-Gen Facial Health Scan Technology Available on Mobile App


BurnAlong Facial Metrics - In App Preview Image

BurnAlong Facial Metrics – In App Preview

“BurnAlong’s mission is to change lives by giving people the health and wellbeing programming and support they need, and so with only 20% of the country having a wearable we’ve been focused on how to give the other 80% of people access to that same valuable data.” – Daniel Freedman, Co-CEO

BurnAlong is today launching a new feature that will transform how millions of people monitor their health, and change what they do to achieve their health goals: by giving them the ability to instantly track key health metrics directly from the BurnAlong App – just using the phone’s camera, no wearable needed.

“BurnAlong Facial Metrics” is an AI-driven facial scan. Using the camera on their phone – people will be able to track their Heart Rate, Oxygen Level, and Respiratory Rate – without a wearable.

With only 20% of the U.S. population having a wearable (and only 10% of those 55+) this gives everyone the health data they need.


  • Want to optimize your workout by hitting your target heart rate? Use BurnAlong Facial Metrics before and after taking an on-demand class in one of 45+ health and wellness categories.
  • Feeling stressed? Use BurnAlong Facial Metrics to see your Heart Rate and take a mindfulness or meditation class to bring it down.

“BurnAlong’s mission is to change lives by giving people the health and wellbeing programming and support they need, and so with only 20% of the country having a wearable we’ve been focused on how to give the other 80% of people access to that same valuable data,” said Daniel Freedman, Co-CEO of BurnAlong. “With BurnAlong Facial Metrics now everyone can get the data to optimize their workouts, track their health data, and monitor their stress — and then act on the data with BurnAlong’s video classes and programming.”

BurnAlong Facial Metrics is now available on the BurnAlong mobile app on the App Store and Google Play for compatible devices. BurnAlong Facial Metrics is supported on mobile devices using Android version 8.1 and later and iOS version 12.4 and later.

For more information on BurnAlong Facial Metrics, visit http://www.BurnAlong.com/facial-metrics or contact press@burnalong.com.

For press inquiries, go to http://www.burnalong.com/press-inquiries/.

About BurnAlong (http://www.BurnAlong.com):

BurnAlong is an online video health and wellness platform. People can take classes from a growing network of 100s of instructors across 45 categories, from prenatal to seniors, from cardio and yoga to stress, adaptive workouts, and chronic conditions like arthritis and diabetes. People can take classes alone or live with others where they can see and hear each other for social motivation.

Now with BurnAlong Facial Metrics people can track their Heart Rate, Oxygen Level, and Respiration Rate directly from the BurnAlong mobile app just using the camera – no wearable needed.

BurnAlong works with leading employers, insurers, and brokers who provide BurnAlong for their employees and patients. BurnAlong partners with a fast-growing network of 100s of local gyms, studios, and wellness professionals.

Individuals can also sign up directly themselves for BurnAlong at http://www.BurnAlong.com/wellness/individuals

Share article on social media or email:

Sugary and Acidic Drinks are no Match for Dental Hygiene and Regular Checkups, says Santa Clarita Valley Dental Care


The oral health clinic has been serving the area community since 1979.

With proper dental hygiene habits though, limited consumption of sugary and acidic drinks is probably reasonably safe for teeth – though there are other good health reasons for avoiding too many sugary beverages.

A January 15 article on MSN Lifestyle reports on five popular drinks that can wreak havoc on one’s teeth. The drinks, all of which are high in sugar and acids, are likely to cause pain and sensitivity with repeated, unchecked exposure—and most of the drinks on the list are all too often consumed throughout the day, including fruit juice, coffee and tea, sport and energy drinks, lemon or apple vinegar water, and wine. General and cosmetic dental center Santa Clarita Valley Dental Care says that, with proper dental hygiene habits, limited consumption of sugary and acidic drinks is probably reasonably safe for teeth – though there are other good health reasons for avoiding too many sugary beverages.

The comprehensive dental care clinic says that proper oral hygiene starts with flossing and about two minutes of brushing around 30 minutes after each meal or at least twice daily. The center adds that by waiting for roughly half an hour, a patient’s teeth enamel is able to re-mineralize, which reduces the likelihood of it being damaged by brushing. The center adds that a mouth rinse can eliminate any remaining bits of food that might be stuck between teeth. The final and very important step in dental hygiene, the center continues, is for patients to visit their dentist for routine care and, of course, if they experience any symptoms a dental ailment. The center adds that checkups can spot any minor issues before they have the time to develop into more serious concerns that can threaten teeth.

Santa Clarita Valley Dental Care says that visiting a dentist at the earliest point in the progression of a tooth malady can avoid a lot of pain and trouble. Moreover, preventive treatments are always a great deal less expensive in terms of both money and time when compared to restorative work. Even so, bad things sometimes happen to teeth regardless. The good news is that the vast majority of dental concerns are treatable, the center adds. It notes that it routinely treats everything from gingivitis to chipped and broken teeth, helping countless patients to obtain a healthy and beautiful smile.

Interested readers can find out more about Santa Clarita Valley Dental Care by visiting their website at https://www.scvdentalcare.com or calling (661) 493-8866 to speak with one of their friendly and professional customer service representatives. The clinic is open Monday through Saturday and has been serving the community since 1979.

Share article on social media or email:

Syracuse’s Top Home Care Agency, At Home Independent Living, Inc. Receives Best of Home Care® & Caring Star of Choice Award for Service Excellence for 2020


At Home Independent Living, Inc. announced today that it received national recognition from two of the most prestigious organizations in the home care industry. At Home Independent Living, Inc. once again received the distinguished “Best of Home Care” – Provider of Choice & Employer of Choice Awards from Home Care Pulse, the leading firm in quality assurance for the home care industry. Additionally, At Home received the “Caring Star of 2020 Award” for Service Excellence in home care, which is based on consumer ratings and reviews on Caring.com, the industry’s leading consumer resource website for home care services. At Home Independent Living is proud to be the only agency in Syracuse, NY to receive both national recognitions in 2020.

As a recipient of these awards, At Home Independent Living, Inc. distinguishes itself as a high-quality performer in the national home care industry. These awards are only granted to the top-ranking home care providers based on client and caregiver satisfaction surveys and certified client reviews. At Home Independent Living is ranked among a small handful of home care providers across the country who have proven their ability to provide an exceptional working experience to employees and the highest quality care to their clients. These accomplishments show At Home Independent Living, Inc.’s long-term dedication to excellent care and continuous improvement.

Dean Bellefeuille, President and owner of At Home Independent Living, Inc., stated, “First – It is imperative to our business to be able to demonstrate some tangible measures for individuals to use to assist them in choosing an agency to care for themselves or their loved ones. Reliability, consistency, and a “client-first” approach are not necessarily easy to demonstrate to potential clients, so our partnership with Home Care Pulse provides a mechanism for us to gauge our services to allow for an impartial measure of what our current clients and employees identify as our strengths. Second – The unbiased perceptions and information we receive from the monthly surveys has allowed us to identify areas for improvement, make adjustments and measure the effectiveness of corrective measures on a monthly basis. Third – The certified reviews represented through our relationship with Caring.com from our current and past customers provide an opportunity for potential clients researching home care options to determine and select the best agency for their needs. We could not be more pleased with these awards and we will continue to strive for excellence in all our services.”

At Home Independent Living, Inc. has shown an extensive record of consistency, earning the Home Care Pulse “Best of Home Care” award 10 years in a row along with the “Leaders in Excellence” award, presented to agencies in the top 5 percent for overall quality of service, three times. In addition, for both 2019 and 2020, At Home was further recognized with the Caring Star Award for Service Excellence from Caring.com.

The Best of Home Care Awards highlight the top-performing home care businesses in the nation. Home Care Pulse believes that by honoring these providers, families looking for in-home care for a loved one will be able to recognize and choose a trusted home care provider. “Our goal at Home Care Pulse is to empower home care businesses to reach their goals and deliver the best home care possible,” says Erik Madsen, CEO of Home Care Pulse. “We are happy to recognize At Home Independent Living, Inc. as a Best of Home Care award winning agency. We’ve been impressed by their commitment to their clients and caregivers, as well as the quality of the overall care they provide. They really stand out in their market as a top home care provider.”

Caring.com reviews help Americans research and select the best senior care providers for aging or ailing loved ones. In multiple research studies, family caregivers have indicated that they turn to the Internet and consumer reviews when narrowing their options among home care agencies in their area, and have relied on these perspectives as much as or more so than suggestions from professionals such as doctors or hospitals. Originally published in January 2012 as the first of its kind in senior living and expanded to home care in 2017, the Caring Stars annual list has become a go-to guide of the best home care agencies nationwide. To be considered for the award, Caring Stars agencies met a set of rigorous criteria based on ratings and reviews from seniors and their family members. Caring.com senior care experts also conducted a reviews-integrity audit and took other quality-assurance measures before determining the Caring Stars of 2020. “Congratulations to At Home Independent Living for being among these highly-rated agencies achieving such significant praise from their customers in online reviews,” Caring.com’s CEO Jim Rosenthal said. “They stand out as among the best in the nation for 2020.”

To find out more about At Home Independent Living, Inc.’s commitment to excellence, please visit http://www.athomeindependentliving.com or call 315-579-HOME “4663”.

About At Home Independent Living, Inc.

At Home Independent Living, Inc. is a locally owned, family operated private duty homecare agency servicing Syracuse, NY and the surrounding suburbs. It was founded in 1984 with a mission of providing resources to allow the elderly and the disabled to live independently and safely at home. In addition to providing reliable, compassionate caregiving services, At Home Independent Living, Inc. offers assistance and guidance to the area’s veterans and their families to secure services through the Veterans Aid & Attendance pension benefit. As a community resource, individuals, families and home care professionals can take advantage of free online training classes, educational materials as well as presentations to local caregiver support and senior groups. Further information can be found at http://www.athomeindependentliving.com

About Home Care Pulse

Home Care Pulse is the home care industry’s leading firm in satisfaction research and quality assurance. On behalf of home care businesses across North America, Home Care Pulse gathers unbiased satisfaction ratings from clients and caregivers and detailed feedback to ensure the best in-home care possible can be provided. Powerful online reports allow businesses to identify needs and take action to increase satisfaction, reduce caregiver turnover, and address client needs. For more information, please call Home Care Pulse at (877) 307-8573 or visit homecarepulse.com.

About Caring.com

With millions of website visitors, Caring.com is a leading senior care resource and referral service for family caregivers seeking information and support as they care for aging parents, spouses, and other loved ones. Founded in 2007 and applying cutting-edge technology to its social mission, Caring provides caregivers extensive senior care content and comprehensive senior living and senior care directories for the United States. Caring.com is also the #1 site for consumer reviews of senior living and in-home care providers, with about 250,000 reviews currently published and thousands added every month. Through a toll-free referral helpline at (800) 973-1540, Caring’s Family Advisors support families and seniors across the nation in researching and selecting the most appropriate senior living and senior care services for their specific situations. For more information about their organization and the quality senior care information, resources and guidance offered, please visit caring.com/about.

Share article on social media or email:

Jennifer Winward Joins the YMCA of San Diego County Board of Directors


Jennifer Winward

Jennifer Winward addressing families at a YMCA College Readiness program kick-off event in San Ysidro

“She brings a depth of experience and insight that we believe will add significant value to the expansion of the Y’s college readiness program, impacting teens throughout San Diego.” – Baron Herdelin-Doherty, President & CEO of the YMCA of San Diego County

The YMCA of San Diego County, the nation’s largest Y association, announced Dr. Jennifer Winward has joined the organization’s corporate board of directors. She will be a member of the Community Support Services committee.

“We are thrilled to add Jennifer to the Y board,” said Baron Herdelin-Doherty, President & CEO of the YMCA of San Diego County. “She brings a depth of experience and insight that we believe will add significant value to the expansion of the Y’s college readiness program, impacting teens throughout San Diego.”

Winward is the Founder and CEO of Winward Academy, an award-winning, San Diego-based ed-tech company. She is also a renowned instructor at University of California, San Diego (UCSD) and a 20-year veteran of high school tutoring. Winward earned her Ph.D. with a dual emphasis in Neuroscience and Developmental Neuropsychology from UC San Diego. She is a member of Phi Beta Kappa and graduated summa cum laude with highest distinction honors.

“I am honored to join the Y corporate board in San Diego and to support the Y’s mission to be more than ‘gym and swim,” said Dr. Winward. “The Y is uniquely positioned to make a meaningful, measurable impact in our community, and I couldn’t be more excited to work with the team to scale this impact.”

Winward has been widely recognized for her academic success, published research, and service efforts with awards from the President of the United States, the California State Assembly, Rotary International, the Marin County School Administrator Association, the American Psychological Association, and the National Science Foundation.

She was recently honored as San Diego’s most influential education leader, as Top 40 Under 40 in San Diego, as Top 35 Under 35 nationally, and as a Top 5 Female Entrepreneur in IT. She is a sought-after thought leader and has been interviewed by national outlets like Forbes and Entrepreneur.

About the YMCA of San Diego County

The YMCA of San Diego County is the largest Y Association in the nation serving nearly 500,000 San Diego County residents and employing more than 5,500 people. Through a variety of programs and services focused on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, the Y unites men, women and children – regardless of age, income or background – to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the nation’s health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. The YMCA of San Diego County is dedicated to improving the quality of human life and to helping all people realize their fullest potential as children of God through the development of the spirit, mind and body. Visit http://www.ymcasd.org to find your local YMCA or call (858) 292-YMCA (9622).

About Winward Academy

Test success, college success, and life success – they all begin at Winward Academy, a research-based, student-centered learning platform for the ACT, SAT, math class, and college applications. Winward Academy applies a scientific approach to customize learning for each student, enabling growth for students of all levels and learning styles. Winward Academy is a team of passionate adolescent learning researchers committed to thoughtfully developing curriculum that improves learning, retention, and test performance – building confidence for life. Winward Academy curriculum is used by students at home, by teachers in the classroom, and by charities in after-school and summer programs. For more information on Winward Academy, see winwardacademy.com or follow the company on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Share article on social media or email:



Ten Performance Offers Velvet Antler Extract Products, A Superfood With Health, Fitness and Medicinal Benefits


News Image

Shayne Sallee, a personal trainer for 13 years, on a plant-based diet for 11 years, purchased Ten Performance after personally experiencing the life-changing benefits of Velvet Antler Extract (VAE) products.

In speaking about why he made the leap to purchase Ten Performance, Shayne Sallee states “After a year of being vegan I felt good but didn’t feel like my body was recovering like it did in the past. I was training with a lot of volume and it seemed to take me longer to recover. My co-worker told me about a product that comes from the antler of deer. The more research I did the more comfortable I felt about the product. So, I started using VAE and within a month I couldn’t believe how fast I was recovering. I felt like I was in my 20’s again.”

VAE is very common in traditional Chinese medicine and has been used to treat and relieve health complications such as arthritis and immune system failures for over 2000 years. Today, the extract is gaining popularity thanks to its numerous health benefits, and is used to alleviate muscle strains, high blood pressure, and help athletic performance.

As an ethical, plant-based consumer, it was very important to Shayne that VAE (or anything he consumed) did not harm animals in any way. Ten Performance health and fitness products are humanely and ethically sourced from farm-raised elk in Idaho. The elk are not harmed in any way during the extraction, and a veterinarian is present to oversee the entire process to ensure that special care is always taken with the animals. Once the raw material is extracted it is freeze-dried within minutes to lock in the freshness, and then shipped directly to Ten Performance’s FDA-compliant bottling facility in Florida.

When asked about the benefits he has personally experienced with VAE, Shayne says “I am getting most of the vitamins and minerals I would be getting from steak or milk without harming any animals. I have also eliminated cholesterol and calories that come from eating animal proteins. This product has changed my life for the best, and that’s why, when the opportunity popped up, I purchased Ten Performance without hesitation, because I know our products can help people.”

More About Ten Performance Health Supplements:

Ten Performance makes the cleanest performance products on the market for more than 10 years. To do this they source the highest-quality, all-natural raw ingredients from across the globe. Ten Performance believes in purity; all of their supplements are non-GMO, and have absolutely no binders, fillers, harsh chemicals, or other unwanted ingredients.

Share article on social media or email:

Windstar Cruises Announces Transformative New Spa Concept That Takes Wellness and Travel to New Levels


An updated spa treatment room aboard Wind Surf

“Now with the unveiling of World Spa by Windstar, our guests will be able to take wellness to a deeper level and partake in destination-inspired treatments with locally sourced ingredients, ” says Peter Tobler, Director of Hotel Operations for Windstar Cruises.

With Windstar’s launch of its new World Spa by Windstar, the leading small ship cruise line is taking wellness to new places. Windstar Cruises, which operates six small ships sailing to 80 countries around the globe, features regional spa treatments and destination-themed therapies to enhance guests’ travel experience.

World Spa by Windstar debuted first on Wind Surf which emerged from a major renovation in December 2019. The spa will be included on the three all-suite Star Class ships—Star Breeze, Star Legend and Star Pride—as part of the $250 Million Star Plus Initiative. The three reimagined ships will debut in May, September and December 2020. The look of these new spaces will be calm and serene, providing the perfect backdrop for a transformative experience.

“We’re delighted to expand upon Windstar’s partnership with One Spa World,” says Peter Tobler, Director of Hotel Operations for Windstar Cruises. “Now with the unveiling of World Spa by Windstar, our guests will be able to take wellness to a deeper level and partake in destination-inspired treatments with locally sourced ingredients.”

Travel on its own is a kind of therapy, but with the introduction of its innovative line of destination-themed treatments, the World Spa by Windstar will offer guests an even more profound sense of place. Natural elements are sourced from Windstar’s global destinations for use by spa therapists in a collection of Wanderlust treatments that will vary by region.

The Northern Lights Manicure and Pedicure, which is inspired by the aurora borealis itself includes a soak using seaweed sourced from the Baltic Sea, and warm LED lights modeled after the color-streaked midnight sky helps lessen signs of aging and improves the texture of the skin while also creating an unforgettable light show. A Remineralizing Glacial Mud Body Wrap from Alaska incorporates mud minerals and botanical extracts harvested directly from the remote waters of the Copper River in the Last Frontier. This wrap uses some of the purest ingredients found anywhere on the planet and will rid the skin of impurities while stimulating healthy cell regeneration. A Rosemary and Thyme Massage from the Mediterranean, which uses some of Italy’s most intoxicating ingredients—honey, rosemary and wine—conditions and calms. Additional regional treatments from Asia, Caribbean, Iceland and the South Pacific are on the menu.

In addition to therapies from some of the richest cultures on earth, World Spa by Windstar will introduce guests to a number of other wellness adventures. A range of facial therapies will fuse technology and high-level ingredients to transform skin on a cellular level. From an Aroma Stone Therapy to an Intensely Cleansing Salt Scrub, massages and body treatments employ the world’s best ingredients and techniques, while kneading out stress and restoring inner peace. The World Spa is also bringing ancient healing remedies from the Far East to the high seas, including acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine.

Massage therapists and beauticians will be using products from Elemis, the luxurious British body and skincare line. And in keeping with Windstar’s dedication to providing the best in class in all areas, guests will now have access to a true spa and fitness center, with new and improved gym equipment from Technogym, an Italian company known for its cutting-edge designs.

In an effort to enliven both mind and body, World Spa by Windstar will also tap into fitness and nutrition to further empower guests’ journeys. Onboard fitness experts can design a custom program to help passengers achieve their wellness goals, using body composition analysis, nutritional consultation based on the prize-winning research of Dr. Barry Sears and scientifically backed personal training. Also offered are Body Sculpt Boot Camp, Pure-Form Pilates, Yoga and more.

To learn more about World Spa by Windstar and authentic small ship cruising, contact a travel advisor or Windstar Cruises by phone at 800-258-7245, or visit http://www.windstarcruises.com.

###

Editor’s note: for spa renderings and menus: https://windstarcruises.webdamdb.com/bp/#/folder/7162195/

Media Contacts: Sarah Scoltock, Windstar PR Director, sarah.scoltock@windstarcruises.com

Sally Spaulding, Percepture Account Director, sspaulding@percepture.com

About Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises operates a six-ship fleet of masted sailing ships and all-suite motor ships that cruise with 350 guests or fewer throughout Europe, the Caribbean, Costa Rica and the Panama Canal, Asia, Alaska and British Columbia, Canada and New England, Tahiti and the South Pacific, Mexico and U.S. Coastal, and new for 2020-21, cruises to Australia and New Zealand, Fiji, New Caledonia, Tonga and the Cook Islands. Windstar Cruises is a part of Xanterra Travel Collection.

Share article on social media or email:

Advanced Oral Specialty Group Replaces Missing Teeth in Just One Day with Dental Implants in Voorhees Township, NJ


Dr. Alan Meltzer, Board-Certified Periodontist in Voorhees Township, NJ

Dr. Alan Meltzer Offers New Smile Today Dental Implants in Voorhees Township, NJ

The whole objective of New Smile Today is, in one surgical intervention, do what is necessary and have that patient leave with a fixed restoration,

Advanced Oral Specialty Group is offering patients seeking dental implants in Voorhees Township, NJ a revolutionary tooth replacement solution through New Smile Today. With New Smile Today, Drs. Alan Meltzer and Mina Ebrahimi can provide patients with brand-new teeth in just one appointment. Thanks to the doctors’ experience and investment in technology, this solution can be used to replace single, multiple and even full arches of failing or missing teeth.

“The whole objective of New Smile Today is, in one surgical intervention, do what is necessary and have that patient leave with a fixed restoration,” says Dr. Meltzer. “Our process is driven by the patient’s functional needs and aesthetic needs. In my career, I have placed over 30,000 implants and during that time frame, we have always focused on constantly improving outcomes and results.”

With more than two decades of experience, Dr. Meltzer has coauthored multiple publications regarding immediate restoration of dental implants. With this expertise, Dr. Meltzer helped pioneer the New Smile Today technique, a ground-breaking new approach to tooth replacement that transforms what used to take months into a treatment that can be performed in a single day. Using dental implants, the doctors at Advanced Oral Specialty Group can provide patients with any number of new teeth in one day so they do not have to go another day without a complete smile. The process involves extracting any remaining failing teeth, placing dental implants into the jawbone and restoring those implants with lifelike crowns or bridges. The end result is a brand-new smile with functional, healthy and natural-looking teeth.

The New Smile Today process utilizes advanced technology to allow the doctors to capture a 3D image of a patient’s mouth using CT imaging. These digital images are used to plan the precise implant placement and craft beautiful, non-removable crowns or bridges before surgery even begins. This treatment process allows for immediate placement of the implants and the prosthesis, so patients leave with a complete and functioning smile that day. With a board-certified anesthetist in office, patients can receive IV sedation or general anesthesia, which help block sensations of anxiety or discomfort.

Those interested in receiving dental implants in Voorhees Township, NJ are encouraged to contact Advanced Oral Specialty Group and schedule a consultation to discuss New Smile Today. Those interested can visit http://www.dralanmeltzer.com or call 856-772-9444 to schedule a personalized consultation.

About the Periodontists

Advanced Oral Specialty Group is a periodontal practice serving the Voorhees Township, NJ area with specialized treatments including same-day dental implants, full mouth dental implants and periodontal plastic surgery. Dedicated to personalized care, they are driven to offer truly custom, long-lasting results in a comfortable environment. Dr. Alan Meltzer is a board-certified periodontist with over 35 years of experience. A national and international speaker, he is also a Clinical Professor at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. Having placed over 30,000 dental implants and over 1,000 full arches of new teeth, he is an authority in implantology. Also a board-certified periodontist, Dr. Mina Ebrahimi received her training in Periodontics from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine where she is now a Clinical Assistant Professor. Always offering modern treatments with cutting-edge technology, Advanced Oral Specialty Group offers laser periodontics and minimally invasive gum recession treatment—the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique. Patients interested in dental implants can receive all-inclusive care from a board-certified periodontist, board-certified anesthesiologist and on-site dental laboratory technician. To learn more about Dr. Meltzer, Dr. Ebrahimi, their practice or the treatments they offer, visit http://www.dralanmeltzer.com or call 856-772-9444 to schedule a personalized consultation.

Share article on social media or email:

Designs for Health Forecasts Top 2020 Health and Wellness Trends


A leading practitioner-channel dietary supplement company.

As consumer interest in health and wellness continues to grow, we are noticing the trends that are gaining traction are focused on consumers personalized goals.

The health and wellness industry is buzzing with exciting new trends, many of which are related to personalized health and wellbeing.

“As consumer interest in health and wellness continues to grow, we are noticing the trends that are gaining traction are focused on consumers personalized goals. With innovative wellness options becoming increasingly more accessible to everyone, what was once a niche segment, is now a fully integrated healthy lifestyle market,” says Neil Mercado, Chief Marketing Officer at Designs for Health (DFH).

Designs for Health predicts the five top trends that are poised to transform the health and wellness industry in 2020.

Longevity

With an ever-growing aging population, many patients and consumers are seeking ways to increase optimal longevity and improve their healthspan—the ability to live longer, healthier lives void of chronic disease. Simultaneously, researchers are beginning to gain a better understanding of the mechanisms that drive the aging process, offering potential strategies for maintaining robust health into later years. A unique compound Geranylgeraniol is at the heart of cellular energy generation, protein, and micronutrient production that imparts key physiological benefits that may support healthy aging. According to Jason Bosley-Smith, MS, LDN, CNS, FDN, and Director of Education at DFH, “It’s like turning back the clock as it helps balance the body’s decreased production of GG, associated with the use of common prescription drugs.”DFH Annatto-GG™ 150 provides 150 mg of geranylgeraniol (GG), in a patented form that is extracted from annatto seeds. As well as helping support the maintenance of healthy muscles and bones, healthy mitochondrial function and metabolic health, it also supports skin health, one of the first places that begin to show signs of aging by helping fight acne and psoriasis.

Self-Care

Consumers are beginning to recognize that paying attention to their needs can be used to promote a healthier lifestyle. The benefits of focusing on self-awareness—of tuning into your body and taking the time to nourish it properly—are profound: Research suggests that the more we practice self-care, the more confident, creative and productive we are. Now, as people are more open to having discussions about their health struggles, more opportunities for healing and recovery are created. Similarly, they are realizing that their mental health is just as important as their physical health. The last two years have seen the conversation rapidly and very publicly move towards an acceptance and understanding of mental health issues. As a result, one of the key trends in the mental health space is now on boosting resilience, the key factor proven to reduce the likelihood of developing mental health issues. It is about prevention rather than cure.

Children’s Health

The health of children is paramount to parents. With recent revelations around contaminants in baby food and the continuing childhood obesity epidemic, a growing desire for reputable nutritional support for kids and adolescents will be an increasing trend among consumers. According to a nationally representative survey of American children and adolescents, about a third of children in the United States use dietary supplements. That number is likely to grow as teens participate in sports and explore nutritional strategies for enhancing performance or supporting foundational nutrition. In terms of supplement form or delivery system, Jason Bosley-Smith notes that, “Many children are unlikely to respond favorably to capsule or large tablet, gummies present a growing trend and opportunity, where effective formulas can be delivered in an ideal application using healthier alternative sweeteners such as allulose. Multi-vitamins, immune support and brain supportive nutrients are prime candidates for pediatric formulation, along with pediatric-appropriate probiotic strains.”

Personalized Nutrition

2020 will be the year of personalized nutrition where science and new technologies identify what products are best for consumers—not only for weight management but, more importantly, to boost overall health and wellbeing. As one-size fits all health and wellness continues to fade out, consumers will look to brands to help them achieve their personal health and wellness goals, together with preferences for delivery systems. Advancements in technology will bring personalized wellness to the forefront and provide new health tech for tracking our wellness. In 2020 DFH will be launching an innovative digital health app, Well World, a dynamic platform designed to promote and track clean eating, health and fitness goals for patients, with personalized plans curated by their health care practitioners. With the objective to empower wellness, Well World will serve to simplify the process of program management and patient engagement, making it easier for practitioners to manage patient plans and intervention. According to Mercado, “This easy-to-use app makes it a snap for patients to track their progress and achieve better results. By following the lifestyle recommendations provided by their practitioner, in conjunction with indicating weight loss, sleep, exercise, water intake and meditation goals, Well World creates a space where health goals can become a reality.”

Slowing Down and Keeping Wellness Stress-Free

Think wellness retreats and opportunities to disconnect. Wellness retreats are a great way to combine travel getaways with relaxation and pampering for stress relief. There are many negative effects stress can have on the body, both mentally and physically, with insomnia, lack of focus, and even illnesses to name just a few. Studies into the effects of massage therapy have shown that this therapeutic practice can decrease cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, as well as inducing changes in the brain’s EEG activity, including a healthy regulation of emotions. Digital detoxing is also essential to our wellbeing. Excessive hours of screen time daily can be related to symptoms of insomnia and depression. So, treating yourself to a weekend away full of massages and pampering, where you can’t constantly check emails and social media could do wonders for your general wellbeing!

What the trends are telling us is that consumers are ready for change in 2020. People want to be proactive about their health and wellness as they expect to be living long, vibrant, productive lives.

About Designs for Health:

Family-owned Designs for Health offers high-quality dietary supplements and functional foods to healthcare professionals and their patients. Guided by its founding philosophy of “Science First,” the company holds an unwavering commitment to creating research-driven formulations with meaningful quantities of therapeutic ingredients that maximize the potential for successful health outcomes. For 30 years, Designs for Health has been many healthcare professionals’ trusted source for not only product innovation, but also leadership in clinical education and practice development solutions. To learn more, visit https://www.designsforhealth.com or call 800.847.8302.

For media inquiries, please contact Giselle Chollett at giselle@adinnyc.com.

Share article on social media or email:

N.J.’s Only High-End Hardcore Gym, Iron Culture, Surpasses 500-Member Milestone within First Year


N.J.’s only high-end hardcore gym, Iron Culture, has launched an e-commerce platform to distribute its popular apparel. (Courtesy of Iron Culture.)

“Iron Culture goes far beyond any franchise gym—we have created a real community where people are finding connection, hope and healing, and people are celebrating the brand,” said Charles Addessi, partner at Iron Culture.

Iron Culture, New Jersey’s first and only high-end “hardcore” gym, announced it has surpassed 500 members since its official opening in June 2019. To celebrate this milestone, the emerging fitness brand today announced the launch of an online platform to distribute its popular Iron Culture apparel, previously only available for purchase at the gym.

“Reaching 500 members in just over six months is an incredible milestone,” said Charles Addessi, partner at Iron Culture. “Iron Culture goes far beyond any franchise gym—we have created a real community where people are finding connection, hope and healing, and people are celebrating the brand.”

The Iron Culture team is launching its online store to accommodate the high demand for its merchandise, which typically sells out within days at the gym. The Iron Culture e-commerce platform debuts with activewear and accessories, including white camouflage hoodies, cropped sweatshirts and exercise tanks with the Iron Culture logo.

Located at 8 E. Frederick Place in Cedar Knolls, Iron Culture’s facility has attracted members and guests from across the tri-state area – as far away as Philadelphia, the Jersey Shore, Rockland County, N.Y., and beyond. Iron Culture has also attracted visits from the fitness community, including 2018 Mr. Olympia Shawn Rhoden and other top bodybuilders like Guy Cisternino, Steve Laureus and Shaun Clarida.

Arthur Imperatore Jr., vice chairman of NY Waterway and president of Romulus Development Corp., and a mental health advocate himself, is the visionary behind Iron Culture, along with partner Charles Addessi.

Imperatore and Addessi created a whole wellness community within Iron Culture by assisting those who struggle with addiction and mental illness—educating members on utilizing strength and weight training to improve psychological and physical health.

“After tragically losing my son Justin, a former college lacrosse goalie, in the fall of 2018, I was motivated to create a new fitness community that emphasizes personal transformation through weight training and strength conditioning. Iron Culture is the realization of that goal,” said Imperatore. “We are proud of the community of like-minded fitness enthusiasts that we have built, and we will continue to invest in our members as we grow.”

Since its grand opening, the gym has attracted just under 8,500 Instagram followers, where staffers frequently post images of its results-oriented members and first-class equipment and setup.

“Iron Culture is more than a gym for me, it’s a place where I can escape everyday stressors and truly focus on bettering myself,” said Gina, a 59-year-old Iron Culture member and Morris County resident. “When I walked into the facility a year ago, I didn’t know what to expect. Since then, my life has transformed from both a physical and mental perspective. This facility is so unique because Iron Culture staff and the community of members want you to reach your fitness goals and are always supporting each other’s journeys.”

The gym’s founders strive to foster an inclusive fitness community by hosting events with local vendors, unrivaled bodybuilding programming and competitions, as well as specialized member-focused programs catering to all fitness levels.

The gym recently unveiled two new programs, “Member of the Month” and “Iron Culture Athlete.” Member of the Month highlights members with inspiring stories who have overcome life challenges through fitness training. Iron Culture Athlete is a mentor program that allows members to learn how to body-build by shadowing the gym’s top athletes.

ABOUT IRON CULTURE

The Cedar Knolls, N.J.-based Iron Culture is an independent, owner-operated, community-based gym. Founded in 2019, its owners Arthur Imperatore and Charles Addessi share a passion for hardcore training and a vision for a unique fitness experience, exceeding what corporate chains and small studio gyms can offer. Iron Culture quickly drew over 500 members, backed by its four core values: vision, passion, execution and transformation. The gym offers powerlifting, bodybuilding, cardio, weight management, a recovery and nutrition program, on-the-go meals, military and student discounts, competitive pricing and more. Find IC on Instagram @ironculturenj. For more information, visit http://www.ironculturenj.com

Share article on social media or email:



STAC Management acquires Laguna Physical Therapy and Hand Rehabilitation


STAC Management, LLC. (“STAC”), a leading provider of outpatient physical therapy services, today announced the acquisition of Laguna Physical Therapy and Hand Rehabilitation (“Laguna”), a multi-disciplinary outpatient physical therapy practice located in Northern California. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Laguna is headquartered in Elk Grove, California and offers a wide variety of physical therapy services, including general orthopedic and specialties in manual and hand therapy. The practice is also recognized for its leadership in pediatric therapy as it was one of the first clinics in the Greater Sacramento area to offer private outpatient pediatrics. Laguna continues to support several pediatric programs at schools and regional centers throughout the area.

“We’re excited to announce the acquisition of Laguna Physical Therapy, an established practice that has earned a great reputation among its patients and employees over the past 15 years,” said Andra Colman, Chief Executive Officer of STAC. “The team has built a strong business while doing tremendous, impactful work in the communities in which they operate. We’re pleased that the entire team has continued with us post-transaction as their deep experience ensures that we can continue to build on Laguna’s success and further expand STAC’s footprint of qualified therapists across the region.”

About STAC Management

STAC is a leading provider of outpatient physical therapy services. For more information about the company, please contact Scott Wandzilak at scott@stacphysicaltherapy.com.

Share article on social media or email: