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Fitness is a must for Lakeshore Foundation Citizens. Health and wellness issues are at the forefront of many Alabamians minds. Our state ranks number one in the incidence of disability, number three in arthritis and ranks at the top of the charts for obesity and diabetes as well. These and more physical disabilities and chronic health conditions are affecting thousands of Alabamians every day. We do live in a state that presents a number of solutions to these issues which include widely recognized healthcare systems and unique programs leading the nation in addressing these healthcare issues - such as the offerings at Lakeshore Foundation.

For more than 20 years, Lakeshore Foundation, a non-profit organization in Homewood, Alabama, has been providing opportunities for individuals with chronic health conditions and physical disabilities to participate in programs that promote active, independent lifestyles. The Foundation offers a wide range of fitness, recreation, athletic and education programs to members – children and adults who experience some 32 different diagnostic conditions including spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke, amputation, head injury, birth conditions or trauma from accidents or acts of violence. The Foundation also serves persons who have been diagnosed with arthritis, cancer, diabetes, chronic back pain, cardiac conditions, high blood pressure and many other related disorders.

The benefits of a physically active lifestyle are well documented. Regular physical activity can bring dramatic health benefits to people of all ages and abilities. As individuals are living longer, an active lifestyle plays a key role in minimizing many of the health risks associated with aging. Scientific evidence increasingly shows that maintaining fitness through physical activity can extend years of an active independent life, reduce disability, and improve the quality of life for all persons. As indicated by the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, regular physical activity can improve health and reduce the risk of premature death in the following ways:

• Reduces the risk of developing coronary heart disease (CHD) and the risk of dying from CHD
• Reduces the risk of stroke
• Reduces the risk of having a second heart attack in people who have already had one heart attack
• Lowers both total blood cholesterol and triglycerides and increases high-density lipoproteins (HDL or the "good"
  cholesterol)
• Lowers the risk of developing high blood pressure
• Helps reduce blood pressure in people who already have hypertension
• Lowers the risk of developing non-insulin-dependent (type 2) diabetes mellitus
• Reduces the risk of developing colon cancer
• Helps people achieve and maintain a healthy body weight
• Reduces feelings of depression and anxiety
• Promotes psychological well-being and reduces feelings of stress
• Helps build and maintain healthy bones, muscles, and joints
• Helps older adults become stronger and better able to move about without falling or becoming excessively fatigued

In response to these important community needs, the Foundation opened a 126,000 square foot facility in 2001 dedicated to serving individuals with physical disabilities and chronic health conditions. A highly trained and experienced staff of more than 70 full and part-time employees provide programs in the facility which includes an Aquatics Center with two pools, one designated for cardio exercise maintained between 86-88 degrees and a warmer therapeutic pool essential to serve members who experience chronic pain and joint conditions, a Fieldhouse with three courts and a 200-meter track, a ten lane Marksmanship Range, 6,000 square foot Fitness Center and The Fred Sington Community Room.

In addition to these amenities, the Lakeshore Foundation campus is home to an outdoor tennis facility with eight championship lighted hardcourts, the Birmingham office of the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services (ADRS),The Alabama Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, and HealthSouth Lakeshore Rehabilitation Hospital.

Becoming involved in fitness programs at Lakeshore Foundation is simple. Every new member is provided with a personally designed fitness program and access to highly trained professionals every day who can assist you in making appropriate fitness choices. Lakeshore Foundation will also contact your physician for any pertinent medical information. Membership opportunities are available for individuals, seniors and youth. The Foundation is also pleased to offer family and couples membership options to ensure that families can access these important programs together. As a part of our commitment to the community, scholarships are provided to those individuals, in need, who financially qualify. For specific information on member rates and a personal tour of the new fitness, recreation and education center, please contact Lakeshore Foundation today at (205) 313-7400 or visit our website at www.lakeshore.org. Contact the Foundation directly instate toll free at 1-888-868-2303.