March Newsletter 2017

Dear Members,

One of the many reasons we selected Technogym as our wellness partner was their commitment to promoting healthier lifestyles throughout the world. In March we will be participating in their worldwide wellness challenge to empower communities to fight obesity and sedentary lifestyles. The challenge will run from March13-31 and encourages members to utilize the Technogym cardiovascular equipment to earn MOVES (Technogym’s metric of measuring physical movement via their mywellness cloud and challenge App) that will be donated to The St. Jude School, and used to redeem exercise equipment. This opportunity is open to all club members and will help St. Jude receive needed exercise equipment.

“Let’s Move for a Better World” is a simple but powerful message that all of us should be spreading. With obesity and diabetes rates at an all time high and our health care costs exploding, it is time for all of us to make our health our #1 priority. There are many factors contributing to the high obesity rates and no easy solutions to the problems. Increasing activity levels is a simple and easy thing we all can do to improve our health. This does not mean you have to go out and run a marathon, but it does mean we must begin MOVING MORE! It does not matter what you do JUST DO SOMETHING!! Please join us in our fight against obesity and sedentary lifestyles.

Last October we began e-mailing the Medallia survey to 3 members per day asking for feedback on different aspects of the club. To date over 100 members have responded to the survey and have given us great feedback. One of the most common items members have been unhappy with is our current 5:30 am court reservation time. A majority of members have requested that we move the starting reservation time to a later hour, and based on that feedback we have decided to move the court reservation time back to 7am beginning April 1st. Members will still be able to call 4 days in advance for their reservation, but reservations will not be taken before 7am.

Based on feedback from the surveys we have also brought back small hand towels, added TRX to the group exercise schedule, and added fresh fruit, yogurt and healthier bars to the food selection. Please keep the feedback coming!

TRX is now being offered on Monday mornings at 6:30am and Thursday evenings at 6pm. TRX is suspension training that utilizes bodyweight exercises to develop strength, balance, flexibility and core stability. TRX leverages gravity and your bodyweight to perform hundreds of different exercises. You are in control of how much you want to challenge yourself on each exercise by adjusting your body position to add or decrease resistance. No matter what your fitness level is, our instructors can adapt the workout routines to meet everyone’s needs. If your workouts have stagnated, TRX is a terrific way to shake up your routine! Come on out and join us.

The remodel of the upstairs bathrooms has begun and we have closed the poolside stairs until they are done. Shortly after they are completed we will begin work on our new outdoor seating areas, which is expected to take four to six weeks. We also plan to resurface the courts and expect to have that done by the end of May when we host the National 45+ Tournament. Thank you for your patience while we upgrade the facilities, and improve your Westlake Athletic Club experience!

Have a Healthy Day,
John Sutcliffe
General Manager

 

Nutrition Tip:

Spring Detox Green Smoothie

By Anna Griffin

With the end of winter rapidly approaching and spring around the corner, now is a great time to banish those cold, rainy day blues and put some pep in your step with a delicious, healthy detox smoothie. Smoothies are a great way to start the day, either as a pre-workout treat or breakfast, and can be a great meal replacement when trying to lose a few pounds, in conjunction with a great fitness routine. This rejuvenating beauty is packed green tea, cilantro, kale, cucumber, pineapple, lemon, ginger, and avocado, all renowned for their cleansing, antioxidant and detoxifying properties. Let’s have a more detailed look at these incredible ingredients:

Cilantro contains phytonutrients, flavonoids and active phenolic compounds. It helps your body get rid of heavy metals by binding to them. Eating a diet rich in cilantro can also have great anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. If you’re one of the thousands of people who can’t stand cilantro, try adding it in small amounts to pesto or smoothies to reap the benefits without being overwhelmed by the flavor.

Green tea is high in flavonoids (antioxidants) and is the best source of catchins. Catechins are a group of antioxidants that stop cell damage and fight disease and are even more powerful than vitamins C and E. Green tea appears to also help lower the risk of certain kinds of cancer and help prevent heart disease.

Cucumbers don’t get as much attention as they should – they are great sources of vitamin C, K, beta-carotene and molybdenum. They are full of phytonutrients that provide antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer benefits.

Pineapple is one of the best sources of vitamin C around. Just one 8-ounce serving provides 131% daily value of vitamin C. It is also an excellent source of bromelain, an enzyme, which aids in digestion, as well as several b vitamins. Pineapple is an excellent source of manganese.

Ginger has long been known to help with digestive troubles, but more recently studies have shown that it also has many anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Ginger contains gingerol which can help reduce the symptoms of arthritis. It also helps with circulation and gives your metabolism a big boost.

Avocados are an excellent source of numerous vitamins and minerals including high amounts of potassium, vitamin E and B vitamins, as well as other antioxidants. It can also help replenish liver cells, making it a great detox food. The high (healthy) fat content makes it a great companion to other foods containing vitamin A, as it helps the body absorb the other vitamin. Adding in some avocado each day will also help add fiber to your diet, which in turn helps with digestion.

Lemon juice is a natural diuretic with great cleansing and detox properties. It’s high in vitamin C, citric acid, magnesiun and calcium, all of which give the immune system a boost. Starting the day with lemon juice will help improve digestion. It works with the liver to cleanse the body and can help balance pH levels and clear the skin.

Raw honey contains phytonutrients with antibacterial and antiviral properties that can help the boost the body’s immune system and fight illness. It also contains trace minerals, enzymes and antioxidants. Pasteurizing can destroy the benefits of honey, so it’s best to consume it in its raw state. Raw honey is a source of the enzyme amylase, which helps with digesting carbohydrates properly. Another benefit of honey, particularly local honey, is that it can help combat spring allergies.

INGREDIENTS
• 1 cup green tea, chilled
• 1 cup loosely packed cilantro
• 1 cup loosely packed organic baby kale (or another baby green)
• 1 cup cucumber
• 1 cup pineapple
• juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• ½ avocado

Blend all the ingredients and pour into a glass, and you’ll soon be feeling a spring in your step, ready for sunnier days ahead!

 

Member of the Month: Bill Fried

An Exemplary Member & Friend

By Anna Griffin

Most of you will already know Bill Fried . . . Not only is he a big player and supportive force within Westlake Athletic Club’s tennis department and regularly seen at the club; he is also one of the nicest guys, who always has a friendly smile and kind demeanor. You might also know his face from his banner as a Realtor for Coldwell Banker on Court 1.

Originally from Chicago, IL, Bill first moved out west to the Bay area, which led to him meeting his wife, Kim, now married for 34 years. They have two adult sons, Chris and Brandon. Having been a member since 2011, he started his athletic career racing Motocross from age 15-19, with one year on the circuit as a pro. That led to Bill racing bicycles for a few years before completing nine years of triathlons, and taking up tennis in the mid 90's. He first enjoyed WAC after he and tennis buddy, Shane Marshak, first came one Saturday morning to see tennis Co-Director, Chris Dudek.

“We were blown away at all the tennis activity. Live Ball, Match play, juniors, clinics and lessons, plus the club had a pool and I really wanted to get back into swimming. The "vibe" at WAC was so good, it was what we were missing at our previous club, Pacific, so we put out an email to our group, we all came over and Shane and I started captaining Men's 4.0 USTA teams. We have met some great people and now have a great group of guys we play with.”

Still loving his tennis life at WAC, Bill comments, “The people are great. From the staff to the members, they are all great to hang out with.” This is evident in his commitment to the club, in particular the tennis department as he continues to Captain or Co-Captain with Shane, as well as also running tennis groups twice a week. “I have been captaining USTA at least three to four teams a year, for the last six years. Chris has been great to us as well as Calle, who are both a big reason we came to WAC. I have an email list of about 65 guys and run a Tuesday/Thursday night doubles and singles group. John gives us two courts and the guys love having an organized night so they don't have to find a game. During the spring and summer we end up with three or more courts. If a new member wants to play with us, John, Chris or Calle will send me the contact information and I add them to the list. I really want everyone to get on the court and have a good, competitive game.”

He is as always humble when it comes to his personal tennis ability saying, “I train with Chris as much as I can, but work gets in the way of more tennis. We all have gotten much better. Our teams finish in the Top 3 each season and we went to sectionals last year for the spring season. I just need to find the time to do more drills and lessons.”

Also a lover of swimming, cycling and yoga, Bill is having a great time re-inventing his professional life with a recent career change from High Tech & Consumer Electronics to Real Estate, priding himself on exceptional customer service. “The same drive, tenacity and proven abilities that were characteristic of my career, are valued assets that now benefit my clients.”

When asked what he loves about WAC he says, “The people. From the staff to the members, they are all just a great bunch!”

Whether you’re looking for a great game of tennis or a great new home, look no further than Bill Fried, an exemplary member of WAC, whose support and patronage continues to inspire us. Thank you, Bill!

Tennis Stuff

Video clip from Chris Dudeck, Co-Director at WAC


Video clip from Calle Hansen, Co-Director at WAC

In Tennis News

By Christa Nonnemaker

Adult Tennis
Adult Tennis Camp!
Adult Tennis Camp coming up April 1 and 2! Two days of tennis for you to improve your game- come join the fun! Saturday, April 1 from 9 am to 2 pm and Sunday, April 2 from 9 am to 1 pm. Saturday will have doubles drills with focus on strategies, court positioning, movement, shot selection and technique. Sunday will focus on doubles match strategy/ analysis followed by a mini-tournament.


Calabasas Men’s Pro Futures Pre-Qualifying Tournament 2017
Top-ranked juniors at Westlake Athletic Club, Andrew Whitehouse and Brandon Lam, as well as WAC Tennis Director Calle Hansen are playing again this year in the Calabasas Men’s Pro Futures Pre-Qualifying Tournament. They played this past weekend of February 25 and 26. Calle Hansen (#5 seed) and Brandon Lam (#9 seed) both have advanced in Men’s Open Singles to the Round of 16 and will play each other next! Last year, Calle and his doubles partner, Quinn Borchard (below) won the Men’s Open Doubles division. Calle and Quinn (#1 seed) have reached the finals again and will play most likely on Saturday, March 4. Please check the USTA schedule for details as to their match times: http://tennislink.usta.com/Tournaments/TournamentHome/Tournament.aspx?T=197785#&&s=7Draws4

Junior Tennis
WAC High School Players in Top Spots on their Teams
The WAC Junior Program has many top high school players who play for their school teams and who have participated and continue to play in many of the WAC programs including the clinics, events and Junior Team Tennis. Depending on the depth of each school team, the players are on either Varsity or JV teams. Many of our high school players enjoy participating in WAC clinics and events together even while they compete against one another on their high school teams!

Westlake High School
Andrew Whitehouse (#2 Boys Varsity), Everbrook Zhou, Will Nonnemaker, Katie Tavasoli (#1 Girls Varsity), Madeline Cooley
Agoura High School
Pablo Hortua, Sophia Simms, Sarah Shoemaker
Newbury Park High School
Aaron Kreymer, Justin Kreymer, Nathan Juan
Royal High School
Kevin Daniel (#1 Boys Varsity)
Oaks Christian
Emily Ackerman (#1 Girls Varsity), Chloe Heath, Nicole Ipsen, Austin Kim, Cole Powers
Viewpoint School
Delaney Eagle (#1 Girls Varsity)
La Reina High School
Tatiana Nourishad (#2 Girls Varsity)
Calabasas High School
Manoun Debbagh

Westlake Athletic Club is particularly proud to announce that Andrew Whitehouse has signed a Letter of Intent to play at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and Emily Ackerman has signed an Early Letter of Intent to play for Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Cal Poly San Luis Obispo is an NCAA Division I Tennis program. Congratulations Andrew and Emily!!!

This Side of 50 On the Tennis Court: Tim Roche, A Tennis Professional & True Gentleman

By Karl Akkerman

This month, I am saluting one of our WAC Tennis Professionals - Tim Roche. If you don’t already know Tim, you have probably seen him on the courts. Tim helps Calle and Chris out with the Junior program on Saturdays, runs his own clinic on Thursday nights, and helps me on Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings at our clinics. He plays on two USTA teams, plays on a Thursday night Mixed Doubles League, subs for Wednesday night Mixed Doubles League, gives private lessons to all levels, and has been the guy to beat the last few sessions in the Monday night men’s round robin league. This guy loves tennis and adds immensely to the WAC experience.

If you've talked to Tim, you've probably picked up on his slight accent. Tim was born in Brooklyn, NY, and raised in Southern New Jersey. As an adult, he lived in Philadelphia where he began studying acting and acted for a community theater group, Plays for Living.

In 1991, Tim moved to Los Angeles, where he started his career in the movie industry as a runner at Carolco Pictures (Rambo films, Total Recall, Terminator 2: Judgment Day, Basic Instinct and Cliffhanger), which at that time was the largest independent production company in Hollywood. In 1995, Tim joined producer, Mario Kassar, (MK Productions) at Paramount Pictures as an Assistant to the Producer. In 1997, the former Carolco partners (Mario Kassar & Andy Vajna) reformed and created a new production company, C2 Pictures (Terminator 3), where Tim was Executive Assistant to Mr. Kassar. In 1999, Tim went to work for Director, Paul Verhoeven, and Producer, Alan Marshall, on the production of Hollow Man at Sony Pictures. During this time he also produced a UCLA graduate student's senior thesis film, Hustle, which debuted at the UCLA Student Film festival and at the Method Festival.

In 2003, Tim was given the opportunity to work in the advertising and marketing side of the film industry. He moved to Sarasota, FL and assisted in the opening of the first east coast office of the S. Callan Advertising Company, a boutique movie advertising agency specializing in Independent films. While living in Sarasota he met his beautiful wife, Andrea Daniele, and they began their life together.

In 2009, Tim returned to the Los Angeles S. Callan Advertising corporate office. He has continued to grow with Callan since then, and currently they represent 11 films (Captain Fantastic, Elle, A Man Called Ove, Toni Erdmann, The Red Turtle) with a total of 40 nominations in various categories up for Academy Awards this year.

Tim started his professional tennis journey as an assistant to Karl Akkerman at Westlake Village Inn, where he helped out in clinics and socials. He was mentored by Karl and completed the rigorous USPTA Certification process in 2015. He moved over to Westlake Athletic Club in December 2014, and immediately began assisting with the various programs.

Tim is a true gentleman and a genuinely nice guy, with a great game and a fun attitude on the court. We are lucky to have him at WAC, so the next time you see this “New York transplant” on the courts, go ahead and ask him “How are YOU doin’?”

The Ojai: Great Professional Tennis In Our Own Backyard

By Karl Akkerman

Many of you have heard about it, but have just never made the trip to experience the oldest and largest Invitational Tennis event in the USA.

The 117th year of The Ojai will run from April 26-30 in Ojai, CA. The best viewing is at Libby Park where the PAC 12 College Championships are being held. The Ojai is played at many other venues for all other Junior and college levels, but it culminates on Saturday and Sunday both at Libby Park and the Professional/Open Level at the Ojai Valley Inn and Spa. This year the Ojai is honoring Rod Laver. Rod will be joining us on Thursday, April 27th for our BBQ in Libby Park, where we offer free dinner to everyone that attends, and he will do a Q & A there. He will be attending some of the matches on Friday – he will most likely will appear at the Professional/ Open events at the Inn - but they are holding a special event in his honor at the Topa Mountain Winery on Friday, April 28th at 6pm - tickets are $295/person (tax deductible as all funds go to support youth tennis in Ventura County).

I have been over 20 times over the years and it is worth the drive to see future Top 10 players. Watch out for McKenzie McDonald of UCLA: Future Top 5 in the world I predict).

I am never disappointed by my experience in Ojai. The weather is always amazing and the venues are fantastic. Organize a road trip with some friends and prepare to be amazed by some great tennis, and future and past tennis stars that regularly play in the Open Division. Our very Own Calle Hansen has played many times (and won). There is always a good WAC crowd watching him and rooting for him, as well as our junior protégés, Andrew Whitehouse and Any Lam.

For more information, you can visit these links. Make this the year you experience the Ojai, and great professional tennis is our own backyard.

http://www.ojaitourney.org/tournament-info/tickets/special-events/

The 117th Annual Ojai Tennis Tournament

 

Fitness Stuff

Stationary Lunge on Bosu Ball
By Patti Markowitz

The Bosu ball is a fabulous piece of equipment that forces you to balance while performing strength-training exercises, and can be used on both sides (flat side and the dome side) as a very effective way to train your muscles.

The stationary lunge using the Bosu ball works your entire lower body (glutes, hamstrings, quadriceps, and calves), all while challenging your coordination.

1. Place the Bosu ball on the ground with the dome side up.

2. Stand two to three feet behind the ball. Then step forward with your right foot and place it securely on the center of the Bosu ball.

3. When you've gained your balance, bend both knees and lower your body into a lunge until both knees form 90-degree angles and your left knee comes close to touching the ground.

4. Throughout this movement, keep your torso upright and tall, your hips facing forward.

5. Reverse the movement and return to standing.

6. Repeat the exercise 10 to 15 times on one side before switching to the other side.

[email protected]

 

 

Video Fitness Tip from Holly Butler

Marching

 

Fitness Tip

It’s Never Too Late to Start . . .
By Peter Loncto

In the fall of 2015, I was about a month away from running the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington DC when I received the diagnosis of serious heart disease. I had just completed a 20-mile training run when the cardiologist told me to stop running (and lifting) at once.

Between September of 2015 and July of 2016 when I had my surgery, I obeyed my doctor's orders and watched myself slip into a completely deconditioned state. It only takes around a month to lose all muscle tone, endurance and aerobic capacity. I still felt ok... right up until I walked into the hospital...but I knew it would be a long road back to wellness.

Around Thanksgiving, I was informed by one of my clients, Skip Toller, that I would be doing a charity run to benefit pancreatic cancer research as part of Team Electra Craft. As the February event date approached, I made a few feeble attempts at running again, all the while knowing that, if necessary, I could walk my way to finish a 5k.

As the day of the race dawned, I realized that I would probably be running in the rain ... I HATE running in the rain, but I had made a commitment to Skip, and I suited up and showed up ... Ready to run in a race for the first time in a year and a half. Waiting at the starting line, the rain gods smiled upon the charity runners and the clouds stopped pouring for the first time in weeks!

The race began and as I started to run, much to my surprise, I felt great! My legs were strong, my wind was good, and I knew I could get this done! I made the turn at the halfway mark and headed for home ... With plenty in the tank. As I crossed the finish line and saw my time, I was shocked ... I finished with a much better than anticipated time! I was delighted to discover that I even finished third in my age group!

The moral of the story... It’s never too late to start or restart, your road to wellness. The journey of a thousand miles, or a 5k- begins with a single step. No matter how long it has been, or how deconditioned you are, you can make real and positive changes to your health. Get started today! Don't settle for being last in your age group.

On another note... we have started offering TRX Suspension Group Training. Both Holly and I are instructing, and we will be adding more classes as more folks realize the whole-body benefits of this unique mode of training. Just check the group exercise schedule and come join in.

 

Yoga Tip

Yoga Etiquette and Best Practices
By Leticia Willingham (RYT-500), Yoga Instructor

As with most activities, yoga has rules of etiquette and I want to provide some insight so that you can continue to improve your yoga practice. First, arrive on time and sign in at the front desk for class. It is always best that you plan to arrive at least 5 minutes before class starts so you have time to set up your mat and props without disrupting the class. There is a 10 minute grace period if you are running late but, when entering the class late, remove your shoes / coat and turn off electronics before coming in to the room. If, when you enter, the class is practicing breath awareness / meditation and everyone has their eyes closed please take a seat quietly by the door and wait until the class starts the physical movements. Then, quietly place your mat down and get your props; settling down quickly.

Turn off all electronics prior to the start of class. You don’t want to distract others and you want to make sure you are present during class.

Keep conversations low and to a minimum before class.

Drink plenty of water before and after class and avoid coming on a full stomach.

Plan to stay for the entire duration of the class, but if you need to leave early you should inform the teacher when you arrive and then make sure you leave before savasana (final pose), being as quiet as possible. Clean up your immediate area and put your props away neatly and where you found them.

Remember it is ok to take breaks at any time during your practice by returning to child’s pose.

 

Tri Corner

Five Strength Training Exercises for Runners
Slow down in the gym to get strong and stay healthy

By Caitlin Carson, Runners World

Want to avoid injury? Take your time when lifting. A new study found that runners became stronger after doing six weeks of eccentric strength training. This tactic, which entails slowing down the lengthening phase of a movement, puts greater stress on muscles to help them grow more powerful and resilient, says study author Fernando Sanz Lopez, Ph.D., of San Jorge University in Spain. Do the following five exercises from Lopez as one circuit. Rest, then repeat. Aim for three rounds total, trying to take minimal rest between reps and circuits.

Single-Leg Squats

Single-Leg Squats
Stand with your left foot on a box, right leg hanging off to the side. Bend your left knee to slowly squat down. Pause, then rise back up to the starting position. Do 6 to 12 reps on each leg.

Calf Raises

Calf Raises
Stand with your heels off a box edge. Lift up on your toes (use a wall for support). Take your left foot off. Lower your right heel slowly. Pause; return to start. Do 6 to 12 reps on each leg.

Woodchop

Woodchop
Squat down and bring a medicine ball toward your right knee. Contract your abs as you stand up and bring the ball diagonally across your body. Do both phases of the movement slowly so you move with control in both directions. Do 6 to 12 reps on each side.

Deadlift

Deadlift
Stand with dumbbells. Hinge forward at your hips, keeping your back flat, to lower the dumbbells just below your knees. Rise up slowly to stand straight. Pause, then lower back down and repeat 6 to 12 times.

Single-Leg Bridge

Single-Leg Bridge
Lie on your back with knees bent and arms at your sides. Extend your right leg out. Lift your hips slowly into the air. Pause, then return to start. Do 6 to 12 reps on each leg.


 

Member Getaway:

The Backroads Experience: The Road Less Travelled

By Anna Griffin

Backroads, who call themselves “the world’s #1 active travel company,” offer travellers a different way to see the planet. On foot while on one of their hiking or walking trips, or by bike on one of their many cycling tours, Backroads give their guests the opportunity to journey through fascinating locations under their own steam and without any filters, to truly enjoy where they find themselves.

Freedom, discovery, energy, inspiration, engagement, and serendipity are some of the words Backroads’ guests use to describe why they love exploring by bike and on foot. For nearly 40 years, Backroads has been setting the stage for incredible adventures, and offers travel for both adults and families, for all levels of ability, with travelers able to craft trips to be as active or relaxing as they desire.

Backroads vacations are tailored made to suit guest’s ultimate desires, with endless active possibilities offered. Their destinations span the globe and include extensive European locations, the U.S. and Canada, Latin America, Africa and Asia. On each excursion travelers are assured of unsurpassed quality, team support in the form of two vans and three leaders, and for those who choose to ride, “the best fleet of bikes in the world.” With a choice of luxurious or casual, welcoming accommodations, delicious gourmet meals, and thoughtfully designed itineraries to fully explore the best each location has to offer, Backroads delivers an unparalleled travel adventure.



Imagine biking through Provence, feeling the sun on your face, scents of lavender fields on the warm breeze, endless olive groves, vineyards, and brilliant azure skies. This biking trip offers an easygoing and unforgettable immersion in quintessential Provence. Evenings are spent in a superb trio of hotels offering a range of experiences, from country sophistication to Relais & Châteaux elegance and Michelin-starred decadence.

Opt for the Italian Lakes Walking & Hiking tour. Enjoy quiet hikes near shimmering blue waters set against a stunning alpine backdrop, lakefront accommodations, Michelin-starred cuisine and local wines, as you traverse Lakes Maggiore, Como and Orta on foot and by boat.

Backroads also offer multi-sport tours featuring walking, hiking, biking, kayaking and snorkeling, to locations such as stunning Maui and Lanai. Snorkel with sea turtles, or watch a pod of dolphins as you kayak; feel the ocean breeze on your face as you bike ocean coasts or traverse off-the-beaten path hikes. Enjoy exquisite hotels, incredible food, and jaw-dropping scenery as you adventure through paradise.

Backroads pride themselves on creating your dream active vacation, and giving travelers a way to immerse themselves in the life of a region, to explore hidden corners and appreciate nuances while enjoying the benefits and enormous satisfaction of traveling under your own power.

These are experiences you cannot have behind the wheel of a car, on a train or a tour bus, in a few excursions from a cruise ship, or at a secluded resort. Active travel, at its heart, is a way of connecting more authentically with the world. Backroads provides amazing leaders, superb accommodations and meals, and opportunities you could never arrange on your own. All of their comprehensive planning and support is aimed at something far simpler: to bring you the immediate, highly personal satisfaction of discovering a new world on your own terms.

When in need of seeing the world through new eyes, book a Backroads vacation and take the road less travelled . . .

Meet your Trainers

Leticia Willingham 
Leticia Willingham is a certified yoga instructor based in Westlake Village, California. She has led her life down a path of healthy eating and working out for more than twenty years, discovering yoga while trying to help deal with severe anxiety. The results of practicing yoga were dramatic . . . providing the ability to calm the mind, find inner peace, and strengthen the body. Leticia’s 500 hour teaching certification is through YogaWorks in Westlake Village, California; mentored by Lainie Devina.

Leticia believes that everyone can benefit by practicing yoga. She focuses on providing each student, whether they have just been introduced to yoga or have been practicing for years, with insight, encouragement and the opportunity to help guide them on a positive journey and achieve their own personal goals. “I know how amazing the benefits of yoga can be because I have experienced them first hand. Yoga truly changed my life, and I want to provide the opportunity for others to affect positive change in their lives as well.”

Patti Markowitz
Patti Markowitz has been helping people stay healthy & fit for over 25 years as a Certified Personal Fitness Trainer and Aerobics Instructor. Her tenure at the Westlake Athletic Club (WAC) began back in 1993 where she has trained hundreds of members who continue to reap the benefits of a healthy lifestyle augmented by hours spent building strong bone, muscle, and piece of mind through exercise & resistance-training. Patti believes that when you change bodies you change lives, and that being a Personal Trainer is about much more that just knowing the exercise or routine, it’s about living the lifestyle, and being able to motivate and inspire others to move toward healthier and happier lives.

As one of WAC’s leading Certified Personal Trainers, Patti specializes in designing customized programs in training for strength, weight loss, and functional fitness. Her attitude and presentation makes workouts fun and motivating; never routine, dull or boring. As your trainer, she will take your health & wellness personally, working alongside you to help achieve ALL of your fitness goals.

An accomplished marathon runner, avid swimmer, and someone you will most likely bump into in a Yoga class at the Club, Patti’s attention to her own fitness reflects her commitment to well-being. With your determination and her dedication you can make anything happen.

For an opportunity to train with Patti, you can call her directly at (805) 208-9578, or inquire at the front desk at WAC.
[email protected]

Katie Whittaker
Katie specializes in aquatic exercise, yoga, and meditation, as well as in strength, toning and cardiovascular training. She also offers nutrition counseling and weight management. Creator of "Aqua Yoga," she uses water and land exercise to compassionately assist clients both pre and post surgery. Katie is certified in fitness instruction by the National Arthritis Association, the Yoga Alliance, the Aquatic Exercise Association, the American Council on Exercise, and the National Association of Sports Medicine. Katie has guided hundreds of clients to better health for more than 10 years.

[email protected]

Peter Loncto
Peter Loncto is a longtime resident of Westlake Village and the newest member of our training staff. As a National Association of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer and TRX Suspension Training instructor, he blends his passion and enthusiasm for fitness with his knowledge and experience to motivate and challenge his clients to feel their best.

"When I first met with John Sutcliffe a year ago and he shared his vision of a first rate fitness center, I was excited to have an opportunity to work with my neighbors in our fantastic community. After learning of his commitment to Technogym, I was all in! The Technogym philosophy of Wellness, their unique, elegant Kinesis One stations with an emphasis on adaptive, functional movement, and their unequaled interactive capability place them far out in front of any other traditional gym equipment. Some of you may have seen me in the Fitness Center over the last month, working out and becoming familiar with the literally thousands of movements possible with the Technogym system. Every day I am more impressed with Technogym's versatility and applicability to all levels of fitness. Whether your goal is a better backstroke, more tee-to-green distance, weight loss and toning, or just feeling your best, Technogym offers dozens of programs and the ability to customize a wellness program just for you.

I look forward to meeting all of you in the coming months and welcome the chance to assist you in identifying your Wellness goals, and working with you to achieve them. Please feel free to ask me any questions you may have. It would be an honor to be part of your Wellness journey.

Holly Butler
Influenced by growing up in Boulder, CO (aka the fittest city in America), Holly Butler has always lead an active lifestyle. As an adult, she was drawn to non-impact fitness, starting with the athleticism of Vinyasa yoga. While practicing yoga she discovered and fell in love with Barre classes and Body Sculpting classes using resistance training. Her 3 daughters were all in school and Holly thought it was the right time to get her certification and go back to work, doing something she loved. Holly spends her “off” time coordinating many school drop-offs, pick-ups and dance carpools for her daughters, being involved in charity work for Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, volunteering school, and playing tennis at WAC with her husband. We are pleased that Holly will be teaching the Body Sculpting class on Mondays and Wednesdays at 12:30pm.

 

Group Exercise Schedule

Sun	Yoga	9:00-10:00am	Katie/Leticia
Sun	Skills, Thrills & Drills	9.00-10.30 am	Karl
Mon & Wed	Master Swim	12.00 pm-1.00 pm	Kevin
Mon & Wed	Resistance Strength Training	11.00-12.00 pm	Holly
Mon	Tri X Training	6:30-7:30 am	Peter
Mon	Adult Beginner Tennis	10.00-11.30 am	Joe
Mon	Yoga	5:30-6:30pm	Leticia
Mon	Live Ball (3.0+)	6:30-7:30 pm	Lorene
Tue & Thurs	Master Swim	5.30-6.30 am	Kari
Tue	Yoga	9:00-10.00 am	Leticia
Tues	Resistance Strength Training	5.30-6.30 pm	Holly
Wed	Cardio Tennis	9.00-10.30 am	Chris
Wed	Yoga	5:30-6:30 pm	Leticia
Wed	Men’s Live Ball (4.0+)	6.00-7.30 pm	Calle
Wed	Adult Tennis Drills	6:30-7:30 pm	Karl
Thurs	Yoga	9:00-10.00 am	Katie
Thurs	Yoga	5:00-6:00 pm	Leticia
Thurs	Tri X Training	6:00-7:00 pm	Holly
Thurs	Adult Tennis Drills	6.30-7:30 pm	Tim
Fri	Cardio Tennis	8:30-10:00 am	Chris
Sat	Master Swim	7.15-8.30 am	Kari
Sat	Yoga	8:30-9:30am	Leticia
Sat	Live Ball (3.0+)	10.30 am-12.00 pm	Chris

 

Masters Swim

Kari Davis
WAC is pleased to have Kari Davis as our Head Masters Swim Coach. Kari was  a Collegiate All-American swimmer and has over 30 years coaching experience. Kari began teaching swimming in San Diego in 1990. In 1991 and 1992 she was San Diego’s Age-Group Coach of the Year. 

In 2005 Kari moved to Park City where she started a Masters Swim Team and began coaching triathletes. Kari loves coaching and enjoys working with students of all ages and abilities. Kari lives with her husband in Westlake Village and has 2 grown children.

Kim Leigh
We are pleased to have Kim Leigh as our newest Master’s Swim Coach. Kim has been coaching Master’s Swim for 5 years including open water swimming for triathletes and she actively participates in Master’s programs as well. She is a graduate of CSU Northridge with a BA and MS in Microbiology and has been a part of Amgen since 2003.

Logan Franks
WAC is pleased to have Logan Franks coach our Masters swim program.

Logan Franks served seven years in the Marine Corps infantry. During his enlistment, he raced on the Marine Corps Triathlon team. He was 1 of 6 Marines selected to represent the All Marine Triathlon Team at Armed Forces Triathlon Championships in 2011. Logan also competed as a professional triathlete with a primary focus on long course triathlon. In 2010 he was ranked 52nd in the world for Ironman and he posted the fasted American run split of the day at Ironman world championships, crossing the finish line in 9:02.

Logan was also collegiate runner for the University of Delhi, located in NY. Though he was a fast runner, his success in triathlon was being hindered by his lack of swim knowledge and experience. Knowing this, Logan went to a number of swim clinics and trained under the guidance of some of the best triathlon and swim coaches in the United States. Logan soon became a front pack swimmer, often coming out of the water in the top six of the pro division for Ironman and 70.3 races.

2013, Logan shifted his focus to coaching and put his athletic career on hold. Logan currently owns a military focused triathlon team. He coaches prior service members and active duty military. He also coaches paratriathletes and other wounded vets hoping to compete in the Paralympics. Logan is a Level 2 Masters Swim Coach, and is very approachable, always willing to help anyone on deck. 

Kevin Lane, Swim Instructor & Coach

Kevin Lane is the Assistant Swim Coach of California Lutheran University Men's and Women's Swim Team. He is also an adjunct instructor at CLU, teaching swimming, and a Masters Swim Coach at Westlake Athletic Club (Certified USMS Level 2).

In addition to coaching, Kevin teaches swimming to all ages and levels here at the WAC. You may have seen him working with students in the pool.

He teaches private one on one lessons as well as groups of two students. His lessons run from 30 mins to an hour, and are for beginners, intermediate, all the way to the competitive student. Kevin has a reputation as a warm and caring instructor who is very intuitive when comes to each individual's needs. With years of experience, he understands how to get the best out of each student at every lesson.

Kevin started swimming and competing at the age of seven. Growing up in Connecticut, he continued to swim through his teen years on the club level, setting many Connecticut State records. He represented Connecticut Swimming as an all-star team member, and traveled and competed against other all-star teams. Moving on to Southern Connecticut State University, a top ten NCAA Division II School, he competed on the national level and set school records in the in the 200 fly and in relays. In his senior year he was elected captain of his team.

After college, Kevin continued to train, compete and coach, eventually winning the Masters One Mile Open Rough Water National Championship for his age group. For over 20 years Kevin has been teaching swimming, coaching on the college, masters and novice level. He has just completed his fifth year of college coaching at CLU.

Kevin brings to the Westlake Athletic Club an enthusiastic love of swimming, with over 20 years of experience as a swim instructor, swim coach and competitor. Kevin looks forward to helping others advance in the water, as they learn how wonderful and positive the swimming experience is. As spring and summer approaches, Kevin encourages all members and families to get out and start a regular exercise program that includes swimming.

Masters Swim Schedule
Mon & Wed 12 to 1pm
Tues & Thurs 5:30 to 6:30am
Tues & Thurs 6:15-7:30pm
Sat 7 to 8:15am

 

Match Finder

Steve Hamburger, Lynn Abroms, and Bill Ries are looking for USTA or self rated 3.5 players for doubles and mixed doubles. The group plays two or three times a week, week days 8:30am to 11am. Steve and Bill maintain an e-mail listing and help coordinate the matches. If interested please e-mail Steve at [email protected].