“The well-being of the soul can only be obtained after that of the body has been secured.”

— Moses Maimonides

UNUM Fitness Zone has opened at the fitness center at Siskin Hospital, according to Lindsay Wyatt, media coordinator for Siskin Hospital for Physical Rehabilitation.

“Funded with a $500,000 donation by Unum, the area in the fitness center specializes in adaptable equipment and cardiovascular exercise,” Ms. Wyatt said.

Siskin Hospital president and CEO Robert Main, Unum’s chief operating officer Bob Best and Chattanooga mayor Ron Littlefield were among those at a recent open house at the facility.

“(They) spoke about the Unum Fitness Zone, as well as Unum and Siskin Hospital’s commitment to providing a fitness center unlike any other for disabled and able-bodied individuals in the community,” Ms. Wyatt said.

Tours of the facility, demonstrations of tai chi, yoga, kickboxing and water aerobic classes, as well as free chair massages, were provided to those attending, she said. Fitness center staff members conducted free health screenings, including blood pressure and body mass index screenings.

“The partnership with Siskin Hospital is a natural fit,” Mr. Best said. “We are both committed to helping those in the disabled community.”

Unum helps protect more than 25 million working people and their families every day in the event of a disabling injury or illness, Ms. Wyatt said. “Siskin Hospital’s mission is to help individuals return to productive living after suffering a traumatic injury or illness.”

“We seek to partner with organizations that primarily target public education, disability, health and wellness, the arts and culture,” said Cary Olson-Cartwright, director of corporate social responsibility.

The fitness center is on Siskin Hospital’s main campus. The focus of the center is to provide a place where disabled and able-bodied people, whether former patients or not, can exercise side by side, Ms. Wyatt said.

“The fitness center opens a world of fitness possibilities for those who have a disability or may need a little more attention when they exercise, by providing a safe, friendly atmosphere that helps to minimize feelings of self-consciousness,” she said.

For more information, call 634-1234.

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