Step Up

American Fitness, Jan, 2000

Making a Difference

I would like to thank AFAA and American Fitness for their support of Legs Unlimited, Inc. (Update, September/October 1999). I received a phone call from a lady who read the editorial regarding mastectomy exercise bras. She was delighted and ordered one through my Web site.

I know we will make a difference in the lives of many women with breast cancer. Your magazine is already a part of it.

Luisa Matzak-Yahalom Legs Unlimited, Inc. Sherman Oaks, CA

Wheels in Motion

I read with interest "The HandiGap" in the September/October 1999 issue of American Fitness. When the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was first enforced, I must confess I thought it was just the latest politically correct hot button to push. However, I have seen people with disabilities in most every setting as a result of more access.

As a mother of three, I myself know how hard it is to get a stroller through most places. There are stairs where you least expect them and aisles are getting more and more narrow. My son was recently on crutches and my mother is in a wheelchair. I would like to challenge Rich Minzer (manager of Gold's Gym in Venice, California) and the other managers who think their facilities are "accessible enough" to spend a day in a wheelchair at their facility. I think then they will realize working out doesn't just "make their day," but is critical to maintain the strength needed for upper body demands and torso stabilization. Access to the locker rooms and bathrooms is nowhere near "enough."

The ADA has done a tremendous job of challenging us all to see how adaptable we are--not just our facilities, but us as well. Believe it or not, people shoved my 10-year-old as he precariously hobbled on his crutches. Most of these people were adults. We need to remember that, one day, we may benefit from the adaptations made now. The activities of young, healthy people have a way of landing them in a wheelchair, if even for a short time.

Kathleen A. Morales, R.N., C, CDE AFAA Certified Instructor East Ellijay, GA

Success Abroad

I am an AFAA certified instructor now living in Karachi, Pakistan, where I have an aerobic studio and hold step and body sculpting classes. I want to thank AFAA for providing me the knowledge, confidence and ability to promote fitness. I owe it all to you. Thank you, AFAA, for my success!

Rukaiya Habib Karachi, Pakistan

Oops!

In the September/October 1999 "What's New" section, we featured an item regarding AeroBeat Music Video's Step Twelve cassette/compact disc. The phone number for information and ordering was misprinted. The correct phone number to call is (800) 536-6060. You can also fax (323) 655-5223 or contact AeroBeat via e-mail at Kalan22378@aol.com. We apologize for the error.