3 minute read
BestLife Adds Value, Builds Community
This fall, during a time of innumerable twists, turns and uncertainties, a new MAC program was born that brought out the best in its participants. The BestLife pilot integrates five foundational elements of holistic health: activity, nutrition, mindfulness, recovery and community. Over the course of six weeks, 24 members were guided on a comprehensive health journey, striving to live their best lives.
The program’s four weekly meetings alternated between workouts, nutrition seminars and mindfulness lessons. There were also weekly Healthy Hours, when habit formation techniques were explored, recovery routines were taught and, most importantly, friendships were formed.
The BestLife pilot encapsulates what makes MAC so special — an unwavering desire to connect with one another and build community. The relationships that organically formed through the transformative experience are sure to be longlasting.
In Their Own Words
A primary goal of the inaugural BestLife session was to gather comprehensive feedback from participants to help shape the future of the program. Here’s some of what they had to say:
“BestLife was exactly what I needed to jump start my journey to getting healthy, especially after a year when the distractions were many. Working together and being accountable to participate was invaluable. I hope the program continues.” —Darin Vick
“For new members as well as old, BestLife is a quick way to learn about balanced workouts, trainers, mindfulness, nutrition and community. Even after years of working out at MAC, it was not until BestLife that I learned the details about all the multi-faceted gems that MAC has to offer.” —Jimmy Krozel
“This was the first class I’ve taken at MAC that took a holistic approach to my well-being. MAC is a great community. I appreciate that this concept of community was included in the program. I am excited to continue to use the tools and lessons after this BestLife session ends.” —Doug Lovett
Clockwise from back left: Doug Lovett, Jimmy Rozel, Kathryn Lovett, Michelle Camarda
“BestLife encouraged me to get back to the club. The workouts introduced us to new exercises and gave us different programs through the Trainerize app. I enjoyed getting to know MAC professionals who taught different elements of the program. All in all, it’s been a great experience!” —Theresa Lovett
“It was a great way to get me back to MAC and familiarize myself with a broader set of services and build community with other members. Signing up was a chance to break out of the COVID malaise. Once our group met, there was accountability to show up. After six weeks, I looked forward to seeing my group. Thank you for bringing us together and for reintroducing me to broader lifestyle parts of the club.” —Theresa Trelstad
“My goals at the start of the program were to increase my activity level during the work week and build strength. The twice-weekly, in-person workouts with MAC trainers and small group accountability brought the focus I needed to make good progress on both of these goals. The real bonus was the sense of community I felt and the additional education and practice in mindfulness and nutrition. While 2020 has been a challenging year on many fronts, I would not have been able to participate in BestLife had we been in a ‘normal’ year. I’m grateful I was able to fully participate in the six weeks of the program.” —Susan Kenney
Pre- and Post-BestLife Pilot Survey
Participants Felt Confident with Mindfulness Practices
PRE: 27%
POST: 93%
Felt Connected to MAC Community
PRE: 60%
POST: 100%
Performed Physical Activity* Three or More Times a Week
POST: 100% PRE: 47%
*Physical activity is defined here as maintaining an elevated heart rate for at least 20 minutes.
What’s Next
The end of the six-week pilot marked the beginning of a path of holistic health for the MAC community. Staff are now taking time to evaluate the program and will use the insights gathered in future iterations. The plan is to launch the next round of BestLife in the New Year, capturing those who are hoping live a healthier lifestyle in 2021
Through times of uncertainty, one thing is clear: Every day presents an opportunity to start living a healthy, mindful, connected life. Interested in being part of the next BestLife session? Email bestlife@themac.com.
