Medical fitness centers on the rise | Staci Lyons

According to data by Marketdata Enterprises, a market research firm that specializes in tracking niche industries, Americans spend north of $60 billion annually to try to lose pounds.

By Staci Lyons

According to data by Marketdata Enterprises, a market research firm that specializes in tracking niche industries, Americans spend north of $60 billion annually to try to lose pounds.

Despite this staggering figure, the U.S. population statistically remains the most overweight nation on earth.

For some, traditional fitness provides the outlet necessary for maintaining a healthy body.  For many others, however, it simply stops short of supplying the necessary ingredients required for success. Specifically, most fitness goers lack the education, support, and oversight necessary for success.

Medical practitioners have been aware of this for years. With the signing of the Affordable Care Act by President Obama in 2010, leaders within the medical profession have realized that now is the time for medicine to lead Americans to a healthier future.

It’s long been known that healthcare practitioners have a unique opportunity to make a greater impact on the long-term health and longevity of their patients by helping them make appropriate lifestyle changes that empower their health. Integrating traditional medicine with fitness extends the continuum of care and allows medical professionals to provide the education and oversight lacking in traditional environments.

Medical fitness centers have historically been found on the campuses of major hospitals. They are often combined with the various rehabilitation services provided by the hospital. More recently, medical practitioners such as physical therapists are bringing this form of fitness to the local communities that they serve. Pinnacle Medical Wellness is one such company bringing medical fitness to both Covington and Maple Valley.

Medical fitness at Pinnacle is comprised of four major services. Physical therapy, massage, nutrition, and fitness are combined to create a holistic model of wellness that utilizes unique technology.

At Pinnacle, fitness begins with a full medical assessment. Following the assessment, clients meet with their wellness coach (all of which carry four year degrees) to establish goals and agree on indicators for success. Armed with the assessment data and knowing the goals of the client, wellness coaches then create a customized fitness program for the client utilizing unique technology known as the Technogym Wellness System. The program is then delivered through the use of Smartkey technology. Clients are directed to various cardio and weight machines with a key acting as their personal trainer. Data is collected over the course of a workout and downloaded so a wellness coach can analyze the information and make necessary adjustments. Because of the use of technology, this can be delivered at a fraction of the cost of traditional personal training.  When necessary, physical therapists, dieticians, and massage therapists are available to keep the fitness goer on track.

Whether your goal is to walk to the mailbox or run a 5k we can help! Call today to set up your assessment 253-639-2266 or 425-433-0123 and start reaching your goals.

Staci Lyons is the owner of is the owner of Pinnacle Physical Therapy.