More News

A twice-weekly exercise program at Bond Mill Elementary has teachers and staff members stretching, lunging and lifting weights against a backdrop of student art projects and a copy machine.

Amy Wenhold, a certified personal trainer and parent of two Bond Mill students, first taught the eight-week program last spring after a couple of teachers asked her if she could offer a class to help relieve stress and improve physical fitness. About six or seven people usually participate in the routine, said Wenhold, a Laurel resident.

Wenhold said she enjoys offering the Monday and Thursday classes because they give teachers a chance to focus on themselves after a hectic day spent tending to others. The Oct. 22 participants were working on classroom and administrative tasks right up until it was time for class to start.

"It's hard sometimes to get the teachers to understand that it's time to take a break," Wenhold said as she waited for everyone to come out and join her.

During the 30-minute classes, participants engage in strength training, yoga and cardiovascular exercise as Wenhold provides instruction and encouragement. Pat Gager, a speech pathologist at Bond Mill, said the location and convenience of the classes help her stick with the program. Wenhold's focus on a variety of exercises is another plus, Gager said.

"I like how she has a mixture," said Gager, a Laurel resident, during the Oct. 22 session. "She really maximizes the time we spend."

Wenhold, who has worked in the fitness industry for more than 20 years as a gym manager, fitness trainer and nutrition consultant, also offers a discounted class at the West Laurel Community Building. Wenhold said she wants to provide the community with an alternative to joining a fitness club or gym, an exercise approach that is out of some people's financial ability or personal comfort zone.

"I try to make it easier for people to understand that it's really not that hard to start a program," she said.

Wenhold managed a private gym for many years but said the country's high rate of obesity prompted her to reach out to the rest of the community. She's talked with other parents about starting a fitness club for Bond Mill students in addition to the classes for teachers and staff, but nothing concrete has been planned.

Cheryl Bauckman, Principal Justin FitzGerald's secretary, said the adult classes have helped her both ease her stress level and lose weight. Wenhold's nutrition advice has also prompted Bauckman to choose healthy salads over other meal choices, and she lost two inches from her waist during the spring session.

"I hear her voice when I'm thinking about pasta," Bauckman said.