Exercise to a Healthier You: More Than the Number on the Scale

70-year-old Corrine Maddox used to weigh 200 pounds and was diagnosed with morbid obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Everyday tasks were a struggle. Through the power of consistent movement, she has now reversed her chronic health conditions. She says Cone Health Sagewell Health & Fitness saved her life. Learn how the program works, with Tyler Hackney, health and fitness specialist with Cone Health Sagewell Health & Fitness.

"I'd walk about 10 feet and my legs would just give out," recounts Corrine. This significantly impacted her ability to travel and engage with her five beloved grandchildren, leading to a difficult period where she often relied on a wheelchair. "Something's going to change," she declared, and that resolve set her on a new path.

Corrine's best friend recommended Sagewell Health & Fitness in Greensboro, and she started her fitness journey there three days a week. After getting comfortable in her program, Corrine now dedicates one to one and a half hours, five days a week, to her routine.

Her dedication has paid off immensely. Corrine is now down to a healthy 135 pounds, is no longer diabetic, and her high cholesterol is gone. Even a knee surgery a year ago didn't derail her progress; she's now walking and even running.

Patrick Westervelt, a health and fitness specialist with Cone Health, emphasizes that exercise isn't just about longevity, but about maintaining your quality of life. "It's going to not only prolong your life, but it's going to keep you able to do the things that you want to do," he says, citing examples like traveling and spending time with family.

It's Never Too Late

Many people facing chronic conditions or a long hiatus from exercise might feel it's too late to start. However, Hackney firmly disagrees. "It's never too late to get started," she states, pointing out that Corrine began her journey at 67. She adds, "Exercise will benefit you if you're two years old, if you're 92 years old."

At Sagewell, their philosophy is simple: "Movement is medicine" or "motion is the lotion." This highlights the broad benefits of staying active, not just for physical health but also for mental well-being and stress relief. A sedentary lifestyle, conversely, increases the risk of various diseases, weight gain, and heart conditions.

Every Step Counts

For those concerned about exercising with existing conditions or pain, Hackney reassures that it's all about finding what works for your body. "We're here to help you benefit yourself, not cause you any pain," she explains. This means tailoring workouts to individual needs, such as modifying exercises for a knee replacement or keeping heart rates within doctor-prescribed limits for cardiac patients. The key message: even small, consistent movements are beneficial.

"You can walk five laps, you can walk 55 laps – movement is medicine," Hackney emphasizes.

A Tailored Approach

Unlike generic gyms, Sagewell is a medical fitness facility with staff who have:

• Education on a wide range of chronic conditions.
• Bachelor degrees and higher.
• CPR-certification.
• Specialized knowledge to create safe and effective exercise plans tailored to individual health needs.

Sagewell is backed by the entire Cone Health medical center, including cancer, heart, and pulmonary doctors, as well as the emergency room. This integrated approach ensures that patients are supported by a comprehensive network of healthcare professionals, making it a trusted referral for providers across Cone Health.

Getting Started

Starting an exercise routine, or restarting after a break, can feel daunting. Sagewell recommends a gradual approach. Many members begin with just one session a week to establish a routine, slowly increasing to two and then three times a week as they get comfortable. Hackney notes that for many, two times a week becomes a sustainable "sweet spot" within their lifestyle.

Staying Motivated

To stay consistent, Hackney suggests a few strategies:

• Find a buddy: Having someone to hold you accountable can make a big difference.
• Discover what you enjoy: Exercise doesn't have to feel like a chore. Whether it's lifting weights, taking a class, or something else entirely, find an activity that you genuinely like.
• Ease in: If you're feeling overwhelmed or intimidated by new exercises or classes, don't hesitate to ask for help. Sagewell fosters a community environment, offering buddy systems and instructors who are happy to guide new members and explain class formats.

Take the First Step Towards a Healthier You

If you're ready to explore how a tailored fitness approach can benefit you, Cone Health Sagewell Health & Fitness welcomes visitors for tours with their membership specialists.

Cone Health Sagewell Health & Fitness, Greensboro

3518 Drawbridge Parkway

Monday to Thursday 9 AM to 7 PM

Friday 9 AM - 5 PM

Saturday 9 AM - 1 PM

336-890-3199

Cone Health Sagewell Health & Fitness, Eden

723 South Van Buren Road

Monday to Thursday 5:30 AM - 8:00 PM

Friday 5:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Saturday to Sunday 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

336-951-6924

The team at Cone Health Sagewell Health & Fitness emphasizes that no question is a bad question, and their membership representatives are there to provide all the information and support you need to begin your fitness journey. They are committed to meeting you where you are and helping you achieve your health goals, every step of the way. Learn more online at conehealth.com/sagewellfitness.