Reprinted from the Health District's quarterly publication mailed to district residents (Spring 1999)

It can take more than personal motivation to stick to a workout program. Sometimes, the key is having other people involved who know your goals and are there to celebrate your successes. That's what makes the Adult Fitness Program (AFP), an exercise and wellness program at Colorado State University, so unique.

AFP began over 20 years ago as a cardiac rehabilitation program. Today the program connects students from the Department of Exercise and Sport Science with community individuals who are looking for more than just a place to workout. "We offer a lot of one-on-one attention," says Sheri Linnell, program director. "Everyone gets a personalized exercise prescription that fits their goals and lifestyle. The students help participants fulfill their plans."

Another draw for AFP is the opportunity to make friends. "Since we have limited hours, participants often see the same people and students each time they come. It often keeps them coming back," says Linnell.

Participants are offered several health assessments when they join, including body fat measurement, flexibility testing and diet analysis. These tests are repeated periodically to measure improvement.

Don't assume that with all this special care the program is only for the weak-at-heart. "We attract a wide variety of people, ranging in age from 20 to 90. Some come for light activity, while others are training for marathons," says Linnell.

Participants use facilities and equipment in the campus Field House. These include the track, a lap pool, weight room, cardiovascular equipment and large gymnasium.

The program is open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 6:15 to 8 a.m. and again from 5:15 to 7 p.m. For those not wanting to swim, it is also open from noon to 1 p.m. Saturdays are available from 8 to 10 a.m. Participants pay a reasonable monthly fee, with special rates for couples and seniors.

Some people might find the limited hours a deterrent,  yet they are part of what makes the program work. "There's no chance to blow off a work-out and say I'll go later," says Wendy Poppen-Chambers, a program participant. "That makes me attend regularly."

Gwen Sieving, a health educator, counsels people who want to make physical activity a part of their lives. She often refers clients to the Adult Fitness Program. "When counseling people to make a change, you have to look at the whole person. The best exercise programs honor all pieces of a person's life: physical, social and personal. AFP does that well," says Sieving.