Dec 5, 2018 6 min read

Time flies when you’re having fun, and this year the Wilfred R. Cameron Wellness Center in Washington is celebrating a 19th anniversary on Oct. 1. The 70,000 square-foot facility has so much to offer, it’s best to schedule a tour to really understand all of its amenities. “We are owned by Washington Health System and the resources and integration that that gives us is fantastic,” said Wellness Center executive director Debbie Roytas.

For some, it is just a gym. For others, since it is owned by WHS, it is a medical rehabilitation facility. Roytas wants folks to understand that the center is not one or the other – it’s both. And it wouldn’t have been possible without the generosity of the late Wilfred “Pete” Cameron and his family. “The whole family is very active and still very generous with this center.” Roytas said. “We are so thankful that the family has stayed involved, and we’re so appreciative of their generosity. They continue to donate every year, for us to be able to renovate or purchase new equipment, and that really means a lot.”

Below are only some of the many offerings of the Wilfred R. Cameron Wellness Center, which boasts 5,000 members ranging in age from 13 to 98. Everything offered at the Wellness Center is open to the public, but at a different rate. “We want people to be using the Center and seeing results,” Roytas said.

Four Pillar approach to Wellness

The Wellness Center utilizes a Four Pillar approach to wellness – mindset, nutrition, movement and recovery. Each new member will receive four free appointments to help integrate them to the approach.

Classes

No matter your schedule, fitness level or interests, with 102 group fitness classes offered weekly, there’s something for everyone. From spinning and yoga to a joint pain class and circuit training, 3D Interactive Studio Cycling with SPIVI and everything in between, working out will be a fun experience.

Team Training

This new initiative has become popular in the last year. “In the industry, there have been studies over the last few years that people are getting the best results from working with small groups, five to eight people, with a personal trainer or coach,” Roytas said. “Team training has developed strong because people are seeing better results – because it’s trainer led, as well as because you have accountability. You’re a part of a team, you’re working with each other. “Biggest Winner is the same concept, and so they just work together and become supportive, you’re cheering on your teammate, and you’re also seeing your teammate do something and then you think, ‘I can do that.’ It helps to push each other. Of course, if you get results doing something, you keep doing it.”

Degreed and Certified Exercise Physiologists

All of the personal trainers at the Wellness Center not only have degrees in their field, but many have master’s degrees, too. Additionally, they have nationally-recognized certifications. “They’re very qualified individuals,” Roytas said.

Child Care

Don’t let the little ones hinder you from reaching your optimal health. The Wellness Center offers childcare services in a fun, safe, and educational group setting for kids aged six weeks to 11 years old. All childcare attendants are certified in first aid, CPR and AED. Additionally, they’ve all passed state and federal background checks. Childcare is also available while parents/guardians are utilizing the services at Spa Harmony.

Summer camp

A full-day, 10-week summer camp is offered each year. Roytas estimates about 70 kids attend each day, and that they have about 120 unique kids throughout the summer. This year they have a planned theme of Passport to Adventure, which will feature different actives, cultures and allow the children to travel through the different adventures of the world! In this program, children will participate in innovative, hands on activities that help children discover the importance of living a well-balanced life while having fun. Children will join friends on a journey around the world with daily group activities, such as archery, martial arts, traditional sports, crafts, nature hikes, swimming and much more.

Scholarships

The Wellness Center will pay for 100 percent, 75 percent or 50 percent of people’s memberships, if they qualify according to the federal poverty guidelines. Additionally, they will pay the same percentages based on the same guidelines for children to attend their annual summer camp. “Last summer, we had five kids who we paid 100 percent for to go to camp,” Roytas said. “They are so appreciative, because this is something they wouldn’t otherwise get to do. What the kids learn, they take home. Our mission is to upgrade lives in the community and camp reaches entire families.”

Spa Harmony

Offering all of the services that a spa does – massage, facials, reiki, pedicures, manicures, waxing, reflexology, acupuncture and more – Wellness Center members can take advantage of discounted rates. Like with all of the other services that are offered at the Wellness Center, Spa Harmony is also open to the public. They also have an organic skincare line, Eminence, available for purchase.

Aquatics

A lap pool, therapy pool, hot tub, sauna and steam rooms are offered for relaxation or working out in addition to a number of classes. In addition to aqua zumba, aqua cardio and aqua flex, swimming lessons are in regular occurrence. There are many options for swim lessons for children or adults. The Wellness Center offers private swim and semi-private lessons for children and adults. But also offer a comprehensive collection of group swim lessons that will satisfy every level of swimmer. Group lessons are available for children from 6 months to 13 years old. All Lifeguards are Red Cross certified, Red Cross Lifeguard Certification is available.