Did you Know?
Before I jump into this month's topic, here is a random RAC Trivia Question: How many daily member check-ins did we average last month? Answer at the end of this article.

Navigating Cell Phone Use on the Fitness Floor:

We receive a lot of positive feedback and recommendations for improvement from our members. One common feedback we receive is cell phone use on the fitness floor. Cell phones have become an indispensable part of our lives in today's digital age. Gyms across America have become commonplace for cell phones. While the RAC does not have a policy restricting cell phone use during workouts, we believe in fostering a culture of mutual respect and understanding among all our members. Our goal is to educate and provide insights for both cell phone users and those around them, ensuring a harmonious environment for everyone's fitness journey.

For the Cell Phone User: Mindful Engagement

Cell phones, when used considerately, can enhance your workout experience. Fitness apps, music, and workout videos can be excellent tools for motivation and tracking progress. However, being mindful of your surroundings and how your usage might affect others is essential. Here are a few tips for responsible cell phone use on the fitness floor:

Volume Control: Use headphones and keep the volume at a level that won't disrupt others. Please do not use speaker function while on a phone or video call around others. Not only is this courteous, but it also helps you stay focused on your workout. It is also courteous to not sing along to your music, as this can negatively affect other members experience.
Spatial Awareness: Be mindful of where you stand or sit while using your phone. Avoid blocking equipment, mirrors, or walkways, and try to move to our lounge areas if you need to take a call or engage in longer screen time.
Equipment Sharing: If you're using a piece of equipment and your phone simultaneously, be aware of those around you who might be waiting for their turn. A quick text or scroll is usually fine, but longer activities should be saved for off the equipment.

For Those Waiting: Communication is Key

Encountering someone engrossed in their phone while using equipment you want to use can be frustrating. However, most situations can be resolved with polite and direct communication. Here's how you can approach this:

Express Your Interest: If you're waiting to use a piece of equipment and notice the current user is on their phone, a simple, polite request to share or take turns can often be the solution. Try saying something like, "Excuse me, do you mind if we share the equipment between your sets?".
Offer Alternatives: If they're in the middle of a workout that requires the equipment, ask if there's a time frame you can work within. For example, "Do you know how many more sets you have? I'd like to use the equipment when you're done."
Seek Assistance: If you're uncomfortable approaching someone or the situation doesn't resolve, our staff is here to help mediate and find a solution. Remember, staff are here to help all of our members have a great workout experience. Be fair with them; if you have not asked a member to work in yet, always try that first. A member cannot be expected to share with you if they don’t know you want to share!

Creating a Positive Environment Together

The RAC is a shared space where everyone comes to improve their health and well-being. By being considerate of each other's space and needs, we can all contribute to a positive and productive environment. Whether using your cell phone to aid your workout or waiting for your turn on the equipment, remember that a little courtesy goes a long way. We encourage everyone to be mindful of cell phone use and communicate openly and respectfully with fellow members. Together, we can ensure that we remain a welcoming and efficient space for all. Let's continue to support each other in our fitness goals, with or without our cell phones by our side.

Answer to RAC Trivia Question: In January, we averaged slightly over 2,400 member check-ins daily.

Brent Frueh

General Manager
Rochester Athletic Club
(507) 287-9305 Phone
[email protected] Email

Weight Equipment Upholstry

Did you know that our Equipment Technician (many of you know him as Jerry) does all of the upholstry work in-house? We are currently waiting on more material as we realize there are many machines that need attention. We realize the current look is not the best. It is high on our radar.

Introducing our new feature: Tip of the Month with RAC Dietitian, Kaitlin Thompson!

March Tip: Most of us benefit from getting in something for breakfast to start our day on the right foot. Breakfast also tends to be the meal where many of us lack protein and other valuable nutrients. Try pairing a whole grain with some protein & fruit – a favorite option is oatmeal with Greek yogurt and berries! The protein and fiber combination will keep you feeling more full than any of the foods individually.

Missed our most recent webinar? Your Guide to Eating Sweets (February 14th)

National Nutrition Month

This year's National Nutrition Month theme is "Fuel for the Future". To celebrate, we're doing a few things:

The RAC dietitians will be placing "Fuel for the Future" stickers on their top food picks in the Market during the month of March!
The dietitians will be posting daily videos on social media to showcase a few of our favorite food items. Be sure to "like" & follow the "RAC Dietitians" page on Facebook & Instagram to make sure you don't miss out!
Towards the end of the March we will be placing a nutrition quiz downstairs by the RAC Dietitian bulletin board, and we have some great prizes in store for two lucky winners!"

CryoMadness!

New enrolls who sign up for any monthly recovery package will receive RAC Perk points! Services available include HydroMassage, CryoLounge, and RelaxSpace. To learn more or purchase a recovery package, please stop by the Activities Desk for more information.

Featured Smoothie

Stop in today to try one of our delicious and nutritions Chocolate Thinny Mint smoothies in The Market! They are the perfect companion to your workout - high in protein and nutrient-dense!

Hours

Monday - Friday
8:30 am - 7:00 pm
Saturday
8:30 am - 6:00 pm
Sunday
9:30 am - 6:00 pm

Inflatables

Come play on The Neighborhood’s giant bouncy obstacle course! Located in the Neighborhood gym. No shoes are allowed. Inflatables are included in membership, and no sign-up is required.

March 8th - 10th &

22nd - 24th
Friday - 4:00 - 7:00 pm
Saturday - 9:30 am - 6:00 pm
Sunday - 11:00 am - 5:00 pm

RAC Job Opportunities

Are you or someone you know looking for employment and want to be on a winning team? We take pride in providing excellent customer service and an environment where all associates are valued and empowered. If you possess excellent teamwork and customer service skills, we encourage you to visit our Career Opportunities webpage and apply. Most jobs come with complimentary individual club membership and provide flexible work options.

Kids' Pajama Party

We will eat pizza, make a cool craft, watch a movie, and eat snacks. Wear your pajamas and bring a sleeping bag for the movie.

Saturday, March 16th

5:30 - 8:30 pm

Ages 3-8

Members $19 | Non-Members $27

Sign-up at the Activities Desk (507) 287-9300 or through your Empower M.E. Member Login. If you are not set up for Empower M.E. please see the Create a Member Login webpage for more information.

Cancellation Policy: You must cancel at least 48 hours prior to the event or you will be charged in full.

Camp Registration is Now Open!

Just for Me Camp
Ages 3-8 | 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays

Check out Just for Me camp! We will have crafts, games, learning, snacks, outside play and a whole lot more.

Early drop off and extended stay available. Click here for themes.

Minnesota Rush Soccer Camps

Ages 3-8 | Monday - Friday

June 10-14 & August 19-23

The Minnesota Rush program provides professionally guided coaching to teach soccer in a consistent manner for true player development. Their mission is to provide the maximum benefit of professionally guided training through programs that emphasize fun, sportsmanship, individual development, and team play. The Minnesota Rush way gives players the chance to excel at the enjoyment of the game, and the challenge of the competition.

RAC Basketball Camp
Ages 5-9

June 17-21, July 15-19, & August 12-16

Coach Eric Williams is joining the RAC for three weeks of basketball camp focused on skill development. Coach Eric has over ten years of experience training multi-sport athletes. He has coached players of AAU teams and players featured by the Harlem Globetrotters. This is a fun camp if you are new to the sport or want to build on your technique.

RAC Pioneer Camp
Ages 5-6, Full Day 8:30 am to 5:00 pm

A great introduction into the full summer camp experience for younger kids. Campers build a foundation for their social, emotional, and physical skills while developing friendships along the way. Campers will spend the week participating in engaging, hands-on activities, centered around a weekly theme. Field trips are optional and are a separate add-on to camp for an additional fee.

Early drop off and extended stay available. Click here for themes.

RAC Discoverer Camp
Ages 7-8, Full Day 8:30 am to 5:00 pm

Every week brings a new discovery for every camper! Each week is full of games, sports, arts and crafts, swimming and much more. Campers will spend the week participating in engaging, hands-on activities, centered around a weekly theme. Field trips are optional, and a separate add-on to camp for an additional fee.

Early drop off and extended stay available. Click here for themes.

RAC Voyager Camp
Ages 9-12, Full Day 8:30 am to 5:00 pm

Designed for the older summer camper as they transition into middle or high school. This is an opportunity to develop leadership skills, while skill participating in fun games and activities. Each week focuses on a different theme with engaging, hands-on activities. Field trips are optional, and a separate add-on to camp for an additional fee.

Early drop off and extended stay available. Click here for themes.

ROGY Made to Move Tennis and Fitness Summer Camps
Ages 5-16 (AM or PM Half Day Camps)
AM Camp: 8:00 am to 12:00 pm daily
PM Camp: 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm daily

Contact Jessica Gravenhof for more information.

Each day includes athletic development/fitness, a tennis lesson, match/point play and theme based activities. No tennis experience needed! Camps are taught with age appropriate Red, Orange, Green and Yellow (ROGY) tennis balls. Ages 5-16 divided by ROGY ball level.

Direct questions about ROGY camps to Sabine Tetzloff.

Date Nights

Drop your children off at Kids Club or the Neighborhood for a Date Night. We will have a special craft, movie, play and snacks. Since you may sign up kids ages 5-6 for either Kids Club or Neighborhood Date Night, you must make the decision at the time of sign up. The night of, your child may not switch Date Nights.

Friday, March 8th: Shamrock Theme

6:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Friday, March 22nd: Spring Theme

6:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Kids Club: Ages 6 months to 6 years

Neighborhood: Ages 5 years – 13 years

Members $17 | Non-members $25