M elissa Kleinberg started working at Mary Hall Freedom Village a year ago, helping with the operations team. She noticed that there was no exercise program aside from a weekly Zumba class taught by Magda. Having opened her own gym and previously worked in gyms for years, she suggested to Lucy that they start one, and Lucy said, “Let’s do it!” And so, back in March, “we started a health and wellness program, the one program we hadn’t dipped our toes in. Right now, it's just me, the one head trainer.” Melissa does thirty-minute strength and conditioning workouts, Monday through Thursday. She teaches at two locations for MHFV— one working with single women and another for women with children and expectant mothers. “Right now, classes are held in our big community rooms. Due to limited space and resources we mostly use dumbbells, bands, and exercise mats.” Knowing they need a proper gym, Melissa applied for a grant that would provide MHFV with a fully furnished gym with brand new equipment and should know soon if they get it.
“Their self-confidence grows, their moods change - It’s something they can physically see
and feel. And that’s really cool.” -Melissa Kleinberg: PHOTOGRAPHED IN GRAY HAT
Melissa stresses the importance of proper exercise, especially for those in recovery. It’s not just about toning muscles. Melissa explains that both bodies and minds go through a lot during recovery. She can explain the science behind it and how exercise can aid in releasing the same feel-good chemicals in the brain that are released when using substances. “In the beginning stages of recovery, withdrawals are very likely to occur and the physical pain along with anxiety and depression can often lead to relapse. Serotonin and dopamine released from exercise, naturally replenish that feel-good brain chemistry and could ease individuals through those first steps in their recovery journeys.” So, what is Melissa’s class like, and how does she cater to both the physically fit and those less so? “ Anyone can take class no matter the fitness level. A lot of exercises can be modified with the help of bands and chairs. Any movement is better than no movement.” Melissa provides music and an upbeat environment for each class. And what about those in recovery who come to class struggling physically and emotionally? “Not everyone is going to feel 100% everyday, so any aches and pains, I want them to tell me about before class so we can modify exercises accordingly. There will be days during exercise where many feelings come up. When those chemicals are released, emotions can be released and we allow room for any and all emotions— good or bad, whatever the day brings. I do my best to make sure everyone feels heard and they are getting a workout, no matter what.” Melissa can see the benefits of fitness. “Their self-confidence grows, their moods change - It’s something they can physically see and feel. And that’s really cool.”
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