HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF THE UPPER MOJAVE DESERT NICK ROGERS –
On Tuesday, June 21 at 7 pm at the Historic USO Building, The Historical Society of the Upper Mojave Desert will host Sam Basco. Basco is the owner of Sam’s Family Fitness Center, he will present a short, but incisive seminar on senior fitness. Sam, a local physical fitness trainer who has worked in the business for over 30 years, at various fitness centers, including his own, has set up shop in the same building that houses the FedEx center at 737 W. Ridgecrest Blvd. Sam’s Family Fitness Center offers a variety of personal fitness programs, and a martial arts center for kids and adults. Recipient of several medals for proficiency in the art of self- defense, Sam is currently planning an excursion to Las Vegas in August to present his students in a major nationwide competitive event.
But, Sam’s main specialty is the personal physical training of local senior citizens, an ever-growing population of fitness customers. As a personal trainer, Sam is always cognizant of the special needs of seniors in areas of exercise, nutrition and spiritual well-being. Ever watchful of his clients during their 30-minute sessions, Sam literally “works the room” in his well-appointed facility to make sure that the correct form and posture is being utilized to prevent stress or injury. Seniors working out alone or with unknowledgeable trainers run the risk of serious injury. Sam’s guidance may include “hands-on” (with client approval) assistance that proves invaluable to the effectiveness of certain routines.
During the June 21 presentation, Sam will discuss topics that are pertinent to the well-being of seniors embarking on a personal training regimen, such as cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and flexibility. Diseases of aging: including diabetes, osteopetrosis, arterio/athleroscrorosis, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure and problems of balance will also be discussed. With the assistance of a few of Sam’s clients, several important exercises and stretches will be demonstrated.
Finally, Sam will refer to Dr. Walter Willet’s Harvard University guide to nutrition for seniors which will include the mention of important vitamin, mineral and herbal supplements and the need for proper sleep and daily water intake. Sam will conclude the session with a thorough debunking of fad diets that can do more harm than good for seniors. Light, healthy snacks will accompany a question-and- answer session that will close the evening.
These monthly meetings are free to the public and will resume in September.
