Celebrating Women's Health & Fitness Day | September 25, 2024

National Women’s Health and Fitness Day is celebrated every year on the last Wednesday of September. This day aims to bring awareness to the importance of health and fitness for all women. Though healthy living is important for both men and women, this day acknowledges that each gender has specific needs when it comes to health. 

We're proud to recognize our women fitness leaders at the Portage Fitness Center today and every day. See below for a special Q&A with Exercise Specialist Susan Rosemurgy on what her role entails and the importance of women's health. 

Q: Describe your role at the UPHS – Portage Fitness Center:  

A: As an exercise specialist, I develop individualized exercise programs based on the client's needs and goals. I also create and implement group exercise classes for all levels of fitness.

Q: What motivated you to choose a career in health and fitness? 

A: I have always been very active and interested in fitness and using those interests to motivate others seemed a natural progression.

Q: What’s your personal philosophy that guides you in your career? 

A: To remain as healthy and active as possible, no matter your age, but, especially as you age.

Q: It’s National Women’s Health & Fitness Day — a day to promote physical fitness and health awareness among women of all ages. Why do you think this is an important observance? 

A: It's a great reminder for women of the importance of staying or getting as healthy and strong as they can be and to care about themselves.

Q: During your career, how has women’s health and fitness evolved over time? Have you seen positive strides with body positivity, inclusivity or other areas?  

A: For my part, I've seen a growth in the importance of functional training, especially in the older population. Gaining strength is a big focus among women now. 

Q: What are some ways you can help women stay active through tough phases of pregnancy & postpartum or menopause? Do you have programs specific to those life stages many women are experiencing?  

A: My work is, primarily, with seniors and my FUNctional Fitness class is a perfect way to get into a routine of strength training. However, all ages and levels are welcome as one can make the workout as challenging as one wants.  Our Phase III program is geared toward those graduating from cardiac rehab, or anyone who needs some extra help in the gym.

Q: There’s a lot of information out there on diet and exercise regimens, medications, etc. targeted at women, which can feel very overwhelming — for those looking to improve their health & fitness, what are some simple tips you can offer to get them started?

A: Start with small changes to make goals attainable, such as, substituting water for soda, brown rice for white, etc. Changes that become your lifestyle will create better results than fads. Find an activity you really like to maintain your interest in exercise and enlist a friend to join you.  Join a gym with fitness classes and personal trainers. We'd be happy to help!

Q: How does it feel to help your clients reach their goals at the gym?

A: Knowing I've been able to help someone work toward a goal is a great reward. I'm happy for me but so proud of those who worked so hard.

To learn more about the Portage Fitness Center, visit UP Health System Fitness Center | Houghton, MI.