AWC offers many options to get in shape

Anybody who wants to get physical this fall and and stay in peak condition may might consider the Physical & Wellness Education program at Arizona Western College, which offers 140 classes to choose from.

No matter how a student prefers to put those muscles to the test from rock climbing, yoga, belly dancing or weight training, Wellness Education has something to keep everyone trim.

One of the most important things that happens when a person exercises is the activity prompts the brain to release chemicals that improve the thinking process, Jane Peabody, Physical & Wellness coordinator, said.

"I always joke how I can solve the world's problems on a treadmill," Peabody said.

For those who prefer to take their exercise outdoors, AWC offers classes in kayaking, canoeing, scuba diving, desert hiking and golf.

"Golf is very important to this community," Peabody said. "Yet some of our classes require teamwork and when you're working together it creates a sense of community."

Physical conditioning is also good for stress management, she said. In today's economy with increasing layoffs, and employees working more hours for less pay, they need some outlet to relieve stress. AWC has classes aimed for that such as meditation and concepts in wellness.

"It's not only important to take care of the outer you, but the inner you," Peabody said. "But exercise also helps you detoxify the body, especially if you don't eat well."

There are also classes in nutrition, and classes are not limited for those in a degree program but open to anyone from 17 to 70, she said.

"Wellness education is what I call the magic pill," Peabody said. "It's what everybody is looking for. Nobody wants to grow old, but if you want to grow old gracefully, you need to keep mind and body active."

AWC also has a number of offerings for alternative medicine. Classes are scheduled for massage therapy, meditation, herbal remedies and aromatherapy.

"This is definitely not quackery," Peabody said. "Alternative medicine is getting back to basics. Pregnant women can ease discomfort when they go into labor with alternative medicine. Aromatherapy triggers the brain to release chemicals that help fight pain or infection."

Also, AWC facilities such as the gym are open for any students registered in a personal fitness class, and students can schedule instruction with a personal trainer.

Classes are also made more accessible by including late start (after official semester begins), weekend, condensed and evening classes. Prospective students can log on to www.azwestern.edu to search for classes, start day, time, instructor or even a course syllabus.

If anybody cannot find what they are looking for, Peabody says she welcomes those interested to telephone her at: 344-7540.