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Body By Brandy Fitness Center

You hear it all the time: one of the best ways to stay healthy is by being fit. You'll look better, feel better, and have more energy. Yet recent surveys show that many Americans - including African Americans - still are couch potatoes.

"Unfortunately, our traditional eating habits (soul food, etc) have left a legacy of high fat, sugar, and cholesterol with us" explains Brandy Cruthird, owner of Body By Brandy. Recently health statistics back Brandy's claim. Although obesity is increasing across all ethnicities in the U.S. - up some 60 percent since 1990 - more African Americans (27 percent) suffer from obesity than whites (18 percent). It's also well established that African Americans continue to have persistent problems with diabetes, strokes, and high blood pressure.

Once you decide to do something about your health and fitness, you must choose a starting point. The best place to start is the Body by Brandy Fitness Center in Roxbury.

Established in 1996, owner Brandy Cruthird started the business after realizing that there were no health clubs or instructors that the minority community could identify with. "I wanted to create in environment that was friendly, affordable, and had instructors that clients could identify with. It was also important to be able to provide a source of employment for community residents as well" explains Brandy.

Originally started in a small room on the upper level of 2403 Washington Street, the fitness studio has grown and expanded dramatically in the last six years. Today, it offers a complete range of fitness opportunities including Nutrition, Personal Training, Aerobics, Kickboxing, Self-Defense, Hip-Hop, Muscle Conditioning and Step. Also on the drawing board are plans to build a new gym on Melenea Cass and Mass Ave. This gym will offer even more services for those in the community.

Where Should You Begin?

Begin with a thorough physical examination. Brandy points out that it's very important to be made aware of any aliments or medical conditions that you may have before you begin your activity. An important measure for consideration is your heart rate and the effects that exercise will have on it.

Next, decide what your specific fitness goals are. It's always best to work with a personal trainer to help you achieve your goals. "Our trainers and instructors are all experienced and certified," adds Brandy. "That's an important factor to consider when choosing a fitness center."

Getting Started

According to Brandy, the minimum we can do each day to maintain better health is:

• Walk 2 to 3 days a week for 30 minutes
• Cut down on fried foods
• 2 to 3 serving of fruits and vegetables
• Drink plenty of water

"The key is to make a commitment to accomplish your goals" says Brandy. This philosophy is reiterated in the inspirational telephone message that greets you when calling Body By Brandy:

"With 365 days a year, 4 weeks a month, and 24 hours a day, when was the last time you accomplished something? Let Body By Brandy help you achieve your fitness goals."

Indeed, they can.

The Body By Brandy Fitness Center is open 6 days a week, starting at 7am (Mon-Fri) and 8am (Sat). Classes are held in the evening beginning at 6pm (Mon-Fri) and at 9am on Saturdays. Call Body By Brandy at (617) 442-2187 or visit them on the web at www.BodybyBrandy.com.

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