June 15, 2001

Before work, after a long shift or during a lunch break, MGHers will have an opportunity to add a workout to their busy schedules, thanks to the health and fitness club that recently was acquired by the MGH. Called The Clubs at Charles River Park, the facility is located adjacent to the hospital, next to Eight Whittier Place (see map below).

All benefits-eligible MGH employees and Partners employees assigned to the MGH can join The Clubs beginning in July, at a special hospital subsidized rate of $38 per month. For added convenience, the rate is automatically deducted from employees' paychecks on a weekly basis at $8.77 per week.

The membership gives employees complete access to the facilities and services of The Clubs, including the outdoor swimming pool and the indoor lap pool. Individual and group swimming lessons are available, as well as water aerobics during the summer season.

The Clubs offer a wide range of cardiovascular and strength training exercise equipment, such as treadmills, stationary bicycles, the "Lifecircuit" free weights, "Ellipticals" (a type of cardio machine) and free runners (machines similar to stair machines). A variety of group fitness classes are offered, such as low-impact and step aerobics, kick boxing, muscle conditioning, stretch and tone, spinning, yoga and a special "boot camp" exercise program. Two sessions with a personal trainer also are included in the membership.

Members have access to a jacuzzi, steam rooms, saunas, towel service and men's and women's changing and locker rooms.

The Clubs are open Monday through Friday, 6 am to 10 pm, and Saturday and Sunday, 8 am to 8 pm. The outdoor pool hours are Monday through Friday, 6:30 am to 9 pm, and Saturday and Sunday, 8 am to 8 pm.

MGHers will have an opportunity to find out more about membership and tour the facility at a special open house June 26, from 6 am to 10 pm. A $4 coupon to the outdoor café will be given to MGH employees that day. For more information about membership, call (617) 726-2900.

John Buckingham, staff member of The Clubs.