October Newsletter 2023
CLUB NEWS
Fall is in the air and everybody is asking about the pool project that is happening in late Oct through November. I went ahead and put down some info that will hopefully answer some of your questions. We understand that it is an inconvenience for some and we truly thank you for your patience and understanding while we get it done. I can't wait to see the final product as one of our clubs had it done last year and it looks amazing. Please understand that this is something out of our control and mandated by the county to get done by the end of the year or they shut our pools down.
We really hope that during this time, members will look at other options the club offers to keep you in shape. It will be a great time to check out the many group fitness classes we provide free of charge.
During the time of the project, everyone will have access to the club as a REGULAR FULL FACILITY MEMBER! We are hoping this will give members an opportunity to try out tennis or if you have a limited membership, this will allow you more time to visit the club.
We thank you for your support and hope you enjoy this October!!
See Ya at the Club!
Ryan
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR THE POOL PROJECT
As most of you know, we have a major pool deck project set for the end of the month. We will be putting in a new pool deck throughout both pools. This will take approx. 5 weeks if the weather cooperates. Many of you have questions and so I thought I would address some of them to help clear any rumors.
- The lap pool will be the first to close. We will be adding two more lane lines to the rec pool for a total of six lap lanes and dropping the temp to approx. 81 degrees.
- Masters classes and swim team classes will be held in the rec pool during the lap pool closure, please see the class schedule in Aquatics
- Backstroke flags, pace clock and swim team equipment will be moved to the rec pool
- There will be no reservation system during the project. We strongly suggest members doubling up in lanes. Members will not be able to save one lane for themselves. Sharing and compromising will be the key to success during these weeks. Please see "How to circle swim in Aquatics"
- We are working on the best entrance for swimmers when we close the rec pool
- We will be having aquarobic classes in the lap pool during the week. Tues and Thurs classes will drop to one class instead of two during this time.
- Lane lines will be moved during Water Aerobic classes
- The adult hot tub will be available to all members while the rec pool is closed.
WINE & PAINT NIGHT WITH SARAH SIDOTE
Join us for another fun and relaxing wine and paint night!
Friday, October 6th at 6:30pm
Cost: $45 per person (charged at sign up, no refunds)
We provide the supplies, drinks, and inspiration.
To sign up click here
HOW OLD IS YOUR SPINE?
"If your spine is inflexibly stiff at 30, you are old. If it is completely flexible at 60, you are young. When it comes to Pilates, age is just a number. Some of the strongest students are 65- plus years old and can execute the exercises more proficiently than people half their age." -Joseph Pilates
No one said it better…I agree with the quote above 1,000%. In my experience, I have to admit, I have worked with a lot of people who are a bit embarrassed about their age. I understand why we feel this way being humans, however, I always reassure these clients how truly strong they are.
Experience goes a long way…because of taking multiple classes, having multiple instructors throughout their lives (different ways of speaking), having the CARE throughout their lives, and having the CONSISTENCY makes us stronger each year. No doubt. Of course young people are strong too, but solely based on experience and knowledge! Pilates training shows us this in a very clear way because of the everyday movements we are perfecting, and the extra emphasis we put on the length of the spine in every exercise. So in conclusion, never doubt yourself and trust that this training will continue to show you that age is just a number!
Georgia Cotsis, Pilates Director
[email protected]
(805)272-5619
ENERGY SPEAKS LOUDER THAN WORDS
"Massage is a language without words…it is meditation, energy, love…" Put yourself first this holiday season! It is never too late to get on a massage routine and the holidays are a great reminder for that. I remember when I was first getting massages for myself long ago before I was a Massage Therapist, and I thought…wow, there is a lot more to this than just bringing ease to my muscles. I always felt the connection with my therapist without having to say anything. So easy! Finally not feeling like I had to overthink how I was doing, what was on my plate that day, what I was providing etc…just using the power of touch to show me how I was truly feeling…and then magically feeling like a better person walking out of the spa.
Of course, let the roller coasters that come with life happen. But let's be less scattered heading into the end of the year by relying on massage. Nothing wrong with a reset!
Georgia Cotsis, Massage Therapist
[email protected]
(805)272-5619
KID'S CLUB NEWS
Hi Kid's Club families! If you haven't already met our newest member to our team, come and meet Emily. She is here on Fridays and has been a great addition to our childcare staff and we feel lucky to have her!
We are now entering fall and are very excited to start decorating our hallway with fall crafts. We have a big tree that needs your help. We will decorate with leaves that turn colors and drop from the branches, fall veggies like corn and pumpkins that need harvesting, and different kinds of animals getting ready for hibernation. It's a great way to have fun and learn about new things!
Once again, we are entering the sick season. As good practice, we would like to encourage hand washing when signing in to Kid's Club in efforts to reduce germ spreading. Also, remember the best way to prevent sickness is to stay home if any sick symptoms arise so we can try to keep all our friends and staff healthy. Thank you for doing your part in keeping everyone healthy!
STRENGTH TRAINING TIPS
-Danielle Wommack, Fitness Director
I've been lifting at OVAC for 20 years and plan to continue to do so for at least 20 more. So what are some of the most important things to remember to continue to strength train safely and effectively?
1. Don't skimp on the warm up! In fact, the older we get the more time we should be spending on the warm up.
2. Form first, not the weight. Don't ego lift! Pay attention to aligning your body correctly and moving smoothly through each exercise. Not only will this help prevent injuries but it will also bring you to your goals quicker. Focus on slow, smooth lifts with controlled descents.
3. Tempo is important to staying in control rather than relying on momentum to move the weights. For example, count to three while lowering a weight, pause, then count to three while raising the weight back to the start position.
4. Breathing is important during exercise. Exhale while your body is working against the resistance while lifting, pushing, pulling, etc. Then inhale as you release.
5. Change is good – keep challenging muscles by slowly increasing weight or resistance. Choose a weight that tires the targeted muscle(s) by the last two repetitions while still allowing you to keep your form.
6. Commit to a schedule and stick to it. Working all the major muscles of the body 2-3 times a week is the ideal minimum for most people. That doesn't mean you shouldn't move your body more – remember the CDC's recommendations for exercise are 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each week plus two days of muscle strengthening activity.
7. Give you muscles time off to repair and rebuild and actually get stronger. Ideally you would give a particular set of muscles worked in a strength training routine 48 hours to Recover.
For detailed workouts and more on the benefits of exercise and how to develop a plan you can stick with, please contact one of OVAC's incredible personal training staff. For a complete bio on each trainer visit our website at /personal-
training/personnel?DC=PT. And if you haven't tried a FREE Small Group Personal
Training session with our three most experienced trainers, please reach out to schedule your today:
Danielle Wommack Master Trainer 818-219-4835 Mon Wed 9:45am, Tues Fri 8:30am
Corkey Solow Level 2 Trainer 805-218-4629 Tues Thurs 6am
Trudie Town Master Trainer 805-797-8388 Mon Weds 5pm, Sat 9am
TRAINER HIGHLIGHT…Isolde "Soda" Marx
Hi everyone, let me introduce myself! My name is Soda and I have been a personal trainer for 8 months now. I love creating the whole package, integrating fitness, nutrition, health and wellness! Exercise for me is about the whole person.
I especially love riding horses and I exercise so I can continue to do that for a long time. What do you love!? I'll make sure to create a routine for you that is about what you love! Contact me at (805) 798-3324 for one complimentary personal training session to get you started!
TURKEY TROT 2023
November 19th 12pm
It's not too early to start thinking about our annual mixed doubles Turkey Trot. We will be starting around noon and going until everyone needs a nap. As always we'll have a "Just 4 Fun" division and an "In It to Win it" division. Start making your plans now. November 19th will almost certainly be the date.
TENNIS NEWS
We are so lucky to be in a part of the country where we get to enjoy the outdoors year round. As most of the rest of the country is starting to pull out their winter jackets, we can pull out our racquets and enjoy the beautiful fall weather here at OVAC on our 11 beautiful courts.
Thanks to everyone who came out to play in and watch The Wood Racquet Classic on September 17. It was a beautiful day and so much fun.
VCJTA NOVICE/OPEN TOURNEY AT OVAC
OVAC will be hosting a Ventura County Junior Tennis Association tournament Saturday and Sunday November 4th and 5th. There will be a Novice division for those beginning players just getting used to playing matches and a more advanced Open Division for those with more experience. Entries will close around 10/31. Court availability will be very limited after 11 AM on both days but please come out and watch the kids play if you can. Please visit vcjta.com for more details.
SINGLES LADDER ONGOING
Our club singles ladder is up and running and matches are ongoing
Please let Steve know if you'd like to be included on the ladder.
Full Tennis Membership is required for ladder participants.
Check the display case by the cafe for results and current standings.
NEED A NEW TENNIS RACQUET OR SHOES?
OVAC will be happy to help you with your equipment needs. We have relationships with Wilson and Dunlop with very competitive pricing and great savings. Please contact Steve at [email protected] with any questions.
TENNIS CLINICS
Contact Steve at [email protected] with questions re: any clinic.
JUNIOR CLINICS
ADVANCED/INTERMEDIATE JUNIOR CLINIC
Twice a week Monday & Wednesday - 4:00-5:30 PM (90 MIN)
Session 3: October 9th – October 18th (4 CLASSES)
Session 4: October 23rd – November 1st (4 CLASSES)
Ages 11+
Session Cost: $80 members/add $20 non-members
Monday and Wednesdays 4-5:30pm.
Must have match experience and be able to serve, rally and volley. This clinic is geared toward players who have played or are interested in playing competitively. Participation for those younger than 11 years is subject to tennis director's approval.
FUTURE STARS JUNIOR CLINIC
Twice a week Tuesday and Thursday- 3:45-4:30 PM (45 MIN)
Session 3: October 10th – October 19th (4 CLASSES)
Session 4: October 24th – November 2nd (4 CLASSES)
(Ages 5-8)
Session Cost: $50 members/add $12 non-members
Clinic designed for beginners to learn the basics of stroke production and movement through the use of fun games and drills.
FUTURE STARS SATURDAY ONLY
Once a week -Saturdays
Session 2: October 14, 21, 28, November 4 (4 CLASSES)
(Ages 5-8)
Session Cost: $50 members/add $12 non-members
Clinic designed for beginners to learn the basics of stroke production and movement through the use of fun games and drills.
BIGGER LITTLES JUNIOR CLINIC
Twice a week Tuesday and Thursday - 4:30-5:30PM (60 MIN)
Bigger Littles (Ages 8-11) Session Cost: $60 members/add $15 non-members.
Session 3: October 10th – October 19th (4 CLASSES)
Session 4: October 24th – November 2nd (4 CLASSES)
A clinic for older kids who are just beginning tennis.
Basic stroke production and movement will be taught through drills and games.
BIGGER LITTLES JR CLINIC- SATURDAY ONLY
Once a week -Saturdays
Session 2: October 14, 21, 28, November 4 (4 CLASSES)
(Ages 8-11)
Session Cost: $60 members/add $15 non-members
A clinic for older kids who are just beginning tennis.
Basic stroke production and movement will be taught through drills and games.
FINE PRINT: No make-ups, prorating, refunds, or transferring. No shows will not be refunded. Makeups due to illness are at the instructor's discretion and are offered only according to availability one time per season (ex. Fall, Summer, Spring) Classes canceled due to weather will be offered a make-up session on an alternate date or future session.
ADULT CLINICS
Advanced Live Ball- Invitation Only
Thursdays 4:30pm-5:30pm. Cost: $15 member/$18 non-member
Men's 4.0 Live Ball
Tuesday 3:00-4:00 pm.
Ladies Intermediate Live Ball- Invitation Only
Wednesdays 5:30 pm-6:30 pm. Cost: $15 member/$18 non-member
Saturdays 9am-10am. Cost: $15 member/$18 non-member
Adult Beginner/Intermediate Clinic
Saturdays 10-11:30am. Cost: $20 members/$25 non-members
DROP IN TENNIS
Drop in Doubles: Tuesday/Thursday at 3:30pm
Cronies Doubles: Monday/Wednesday/Friday at 7am
HOW TO CIRCLE SWIM TO SHARE A LAP LANE WITH GOOD SWIM ETIQUETTE
HOW TO CIRCLE SWIM VIDEO
What is Circle Swimming?
Circle swimming allows three or more people to swim in a lane at the same time. When circle swimming, you will swim in a counter clockwise direction. In the United States, swimmers swim counterclockwise, always staying on the right side of the lane.
Look to circle swim with swimmers who are closer in speed to you.
5 CIRCLE SWIMMING TIPS
1. Leaving the Wall
When you're circle swimming in a lane with three or more people, you'll push off the wall on the right side of the lane, one at a time, usually five seconds apart.
Don't push off too early, or you run the risk of being right on your lane mate's feet, which isn't good swimming etiquette. Not to mention, you're gonna get a huge mouthful of bubbles from your lanemate's kick, too.
2. Turns
Next up are turns. When it comes time to do a turn, you'll want to glide over toward the left side of the lane to complete your turn. This is for two reasons:
- Gliding over makes it easier for you to push off straight and continue along the right side of the lane toward the other end of the pool.
- It frees up space so you aren't turning right in front of the person behind you.
- This tip applies for flip turns and open turns. No matter what, you want to slide over and make space for the person behind you!
3. Passing Etiquette
If the swimmer behind you taps your feet while you're swimming, that's usually a sign they want to pass you. The next time you reach the wall, move over to the side of the lane and allow them to turn and pass before you continue on. Most advanced swimmers can handle passing without needing to stop at the wall, but it takes practice!
If someone starts to pass you in the middle of a lap, just keep doing what you're doing. If they pass you going into the turn, don't glide over as far, and let them push off first.
If you find that you're catching up to the swimmer in front of you even after leaving five seconds apart, it may be time to pass them! If you aren't comfortable passing during the swim, wait until you've finished and ask the swimmer if you can go in front of them.
Don't be nervous to ask – and don't jeopardize your workout by swimming behind someonewho's too slow!
4. Be Courteous
Stay aware and don't linger in the center of the wall if you stop to rest. Move to either side and hang out near the lane line until you're ready to go again. Make sure you don't push off the wall right as another swimmer is coming in to turn.
5. Swim Straight
If you're worried about hitting other swimmers while circle swimming, swimming straight should solve your problems. But collisions still happen sometimes. During butterfly or IM sets, there's a chance you might whack arms with another swimmer, or kick someone during breaststroke.
If this is a concern for you, try swapping to single-arm butterfly for a few strokes when you pass by another swimmer, and narrow your breaststroke kick.
It can be helpful to look at the line on the bottom of the pool. Always keep that line to your left, and you should be just fine!
If you're swimming backstroke, it can be tougher to swim straight. Keep an eye out for the flags, and if you're swimming indoors, use the ceiling tiles as your guide!
How to Split a Lane (sharing with 2 swimmers)
Let's talk about splitting the lane. If there's only one other person in the lane with you, offer to split the lane or swim sides. Each of you picks a side of the lane, and sticks to it, so you don't get in each other's way. This is usually the preferred way to share at most pools.
If your pool is crowded, always try to split a lane with someone before opting for circle swimming. And never stop a swimmer in the middle of a set to ask if you can share with them. Wait for them to finish before approaching them. You wouldn't want your workout interrupted, so don't do that to others!
Circle swimming – and sharing a lane in general – is really simple, even though it can feel a bit intimidating at first. But don't worry, you'll catch on quickly!
Rec Pool Schedule (lap pool closed)
OPEN SWIM=All lap lanes open for lap swimming, share if necessary
Monday/Wednesday
- 6am-7am masters
- 7am-8am OPEN SWIM
- 8am-9am Masters Technique(time changed from 9am)
- 9:15am-10:15am Water Aerobics(time adjusted to allow transition)
- 10:30-12:00 OPEN SWIM
- 12pm-1pm Masters
- 1:00-3:00pm OPEN SWIM
- 3:00-5:00pm Group Swim Lessons(1-2 lanes only)
- 3:15-5:00 Novice & Junior Swim Team(3 lanes)
- 5:00-6:30pm OPEN SWIM
- Competition swim 6:30-8pm
- 8:00-8:30pm OPEN SWIM
Tuesday/Thursday
- 8:00-9:00am Masters
- 9:00-10:00am OPEN SWIM
- 10:00-11:00am Water Aerobics
- 11:00-3:45 OPEN SWIM
- 3:45-4:30pm Novice Swim Team(3 lanes)
- 4:30-6:00pm OPEN SWIM
- 6:00-8:00pm Competition Swim
- 8:00-8:30pm OPEN SWIM
Friday
- 6am-7am Masters
- 7am-8am OPEN SWIM
- 8am-9am Masters Technique (time changed from 9am)
- 9:15am-10:15am Water Aerobics(time adjusted to allow transition)
- 10:30-12:00 OPEN SWIM
- 12pm-1pm Masters
- 1:00-3:00pm OPEN SWIM
- 3:00-5:00pm Group swim lessons(1-2 lane only, first two weeks only)
- 4:00-5:00pm Junior Swim Team(3 lanes)
- 6:00-8:00 Competition Swim
- 8:00-8:30pm OPEN SWIM
Saturday*
9:00-10:00am Water Aerobics
10am-Close OPEN SWIM
Sunday*
OPEN SWIM ALL DAY
*Lane lines will be moved according to usage to accommodate recreational swimmers or lap swimmers
PICKLEBALL
Drop-in Pickleball Clinics **NEW TIME***
Tuesdays 5pm Intermediate/Advanced
Thursdays 5pm Beginner/Intermediate
No reservations needed. Just show up ready to have some fun! Skills & Drills, Doubles Strategies, Court IQ, and Fun Points!
If you are new to pickleball or not sure what level you are, come Thursdays. If you're dominating your regular game and ready to take it to the next level, come try your hand at the Intermediate/Advanced Clinic!
Members $15 charged to your club account
Non-members $20 cash, credit, or check paid directly to the club
Let's goooooooo!!!