Lincoln Memorial University completed renovations in June 2004 of the Mary S. Annan Natatorium. Since that time, the swimming pool has seen almost 20,000 visitors. University students make up a portion of those numbers, but more so are members of the tri-state community who are using the pool to get healthy.

LMU is committed to providing wellness opportunities in the tri-state area. Leading the effort is Aquatic Coordinator Floyde Anne Gardner. As soon as the pool re-opened last year, Gardner introduced two programs that remain staples in the pool schedule. The first, a shallow water aerobics class, provides cardio-vascular exercise, low impact training and strength training. Since water provides 12 times the resistance of air, water aerobics is an extremely efficient way to tone muscles and loose weight.

The second, an arthritis therapy class, focuses on improving range of motion and does not include cardio vascular or toning work. These classes are being offered again this fall. Water aerobics will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 9 a.m. and on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 4:30, 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. The arthritis class will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Gardner is introducing new programs to this semester's schedule. A deep water conditioning class will be held on Wednesdays and Fridays at 8 a.m. The course does not require participants to be master swimmers, but they should be comfortable being in the deep side of the pool. There is also a limit of 12 students for the class, so those interested should register as soon as possible.

Gardner will also teach a jump-rope class for beginners on Wednesdays at 12 noon and a stability-ball class on Wednesdays at 5 p.m. The stability ball class will build core muscles and improve balance. Gardner is organizing morning, noon and afternoon walking groups, as well as monthly bike rides, hiking expeditions and tennis lessons for those interested.

Instructor Bill Stapleton will teach a swimming lap program on Tuesday and Thursdays at 6:30 a.m. The course will involve the intensity of swimming laps with a program designed for master swimmers to improve their stroke techniques.

Finally, a Tai Chi program will be taught on Tuesdays at 5 p.m, with an abbreviated version held on Thursdays at 12 noon. Tai Chi is an ancient form of Chinese martial arts. The exercises involved in the program increase flexibility, strengthen muscles, improve posture and assist the mind in healing the body. Medical studies have found that Tai Chi improve many facets of the mental state, especially for people facing challenging health problems.

LMU will introduce this new schedule on Tuesday, September 6. Each class will cost $3.00 per session, which Gardner points out is a real deal for participants. "Comparable courses range from $14 to $20 per session as nearby as in Knoxville," says Gardner. "These classes are not only close to home. They are very conveniently priced." Anyone interested in attending these classes should contact Gardner at 423-869-6243 to register.