Adult Exercise

"The SportsPlex has classes for all levels, whether you are just starting out or are very competitive. Our spin classes welcome beginners, because everyone works at their own level. I teach triathlon clinics geared toward beginners who have never done triathlons before and introduce them to some of the fun activities that the triathlon club does."

Keith Rissolo, Personal Trainer

"We give free weight room orientations twice a week, Thursdays from 6-7 PM and Saturdays from 9-10 AM. If you would like one on one attention we have several trainers and we try to find the best fit for your needs. We can teach beginning as well as advanced weight training."

Mark Hamlett, Senior Director of Ice Rink Operations and Hockey Instructor

"SportsPlex offers four different levels for male and female skaters just starting Ice Hockey. First level is Skate School to learn proper basics of balance and skating. Second level, “Adult Learn to Play Hockey”, which teaches basic power skating, puck control and shooting. Third level, “Adult Prep”, reaches more into team play, positioning and team systems. Our fourth level is Triangle Adult Hockey League (TAHL) “D” League, which offers tutoring during an actual game. Players are required to have less than five years experience or be over 50 years of age. Through this progression players would be ready to join the Triangle Adult Hockey League. TAHL offers three different divisions; A, B, C divisions. The “A” division is the most experienced players. So in all, not only can the SportsPlex teach beginning hockey players, but any player can achieve their desired level or skill."

What advice would you give to adult athletes?

Eddie Barnett, Personal Trainer, Fitness Instructor, and Triathlon Coach:

"Stay consistent to reach your goals. One thing I always tell people is that you didn’t get to the shape you are in, in one day, and you cannot get to the shape you want to be in one day. Keep at it."

Mark Hamlett, Senior Director of Ice Rink Operations and Hockey Instructor

"Set goals and progress by achieving them one at a time. Be patient, no one takes on any sport and becomes the best overnight. Stay away from making bad habits while learning the basics. Persistence and practice will carry you to your desired level."

Sharon Harkavy, Water Aerobics Instructor

"Adult athletes need to remember that variety is very important to prevent overuse injuries and to keep things lively. In addition, adults must listen to their bodies. Even athletes in top form may have a physical limitation, so they must always be tuned in to their own bodies. No one else knows what another person’s body feels like on any given day so remember exercise is not a competition with others. Work with your body to achieve a better body and better health."

JJ Barksdale, Figure Skating Coach

"Adult athletes need to remember to pace themselves. Skating can be fun if goals and expectations are reasonable. Some adults can and do compete at Adult Nationals in Figure Skating. Many adults have had great success in other areas of their lives and they can experience the same in skating. The Coaching Staff here want to see everyone be a champion! Go For The Gold!"

Keith Rissolo, Personal Trainer

"Consistency in training is the key. You must be consistent with your training and your diet. You cannot achieve success with half of an exercise and you cannot achieve success with a half-hearted approach. The desire to progress and excel has to be within you. If you have the drive to succeed, you will seek knowledge and continue to improve. Trainers are only guides on the way to improvement."

Greg Zoltners, Aquatics Director

"Everyone has to start from where they are. Be patient with yourself, and remember that showing up is half the battle. Not every practice will be your best yet, but if you are putting the time in, you will get better."

By Greg Zoltners- Aquatics Director