The 5 Best Free Exercises Classes In Nashville
When it comes to exercise, the best option is simply the one that’s most likely to engage you. If you absolutely hate running, don’t try to make running a part of your life… you have other options, after all, that are more likely to keep you active and motivated.
One of the best parts about living in Tennessee’s fastest growing city is that there are always more forms of exercise to discover every month. Many of these options are free! Check out a few of our favorite free exercise classes in Nashville…
#1 Stroller Strong Moms
Go SLAM (Sweat Like a Mother) with other mamas and their kids in this full-body workout, which meets throughout the week at Mana Sports Club and Gordon JCC. Participants build muscle while increasing endurance and flexibility. Stroller Strong Moms is a great option for moms who would like to have their kids with them. Keep the kids moving in the stroller or, if they’re big enough, have them join in the workout with you. First class is free.
#2 East Nasty Running Club
We’ve mentioned the East Nasty Running Club before on the blog, but they get a repeat mention for making “East Nashville a great place to live and run, and [for making] running accessible to everyone in our community.” Join them on Wednesdays at 6:00 p.m., or join one of their race training programs. This organization is free and completely run by volunteers. However, they do suggest a $10 donation per runner per year to help cover insurance costs.
#3 F3 Nashville
From 5:30 a.m. to 6:15 a.m., men all over Middle Tennessee, from Sylvan Park to Murfreesboro, gather for free participant-led bootcamps. In the words of F3, “All you have to do is show up. It really is free. You don’t have to be in shape.” What do you have to lose? Find a group in your neighborhood. (There are currently more than 1,400 groups meeting around the U.S.)
#4 Orangetheory Fitness
If you want to get your heart rate up, there are few classes more suited for the job than an Orangetheory Fitness class. A national brand, Orangetheory offers curious locals one free class at any of its three Nashville locations (Midtown, Green Hills, Lexington Kentucky, West Nashville, Clarksville).
#5 Kickboxing Classes
Hotbox and TITLE Boxing are two excellent options located in Franklin Tennessee and Louisville Kentucky for getting a high intensity workout. Fire away at a punching bag under your instructor’s guidance… then, keep your heart rate high in between those rapid punches with additional cardio. First class is free.
Get the details! (Hotbox)
Get the details! (TITLE Boxing)
Exercise Questions? See a Doctor in Nashville Here!
Need help developing an exercise plan that serves your health and wellness goals? Our Nashville doctors at St. Thomas Medical Group can work with you to develop healthy diet and exercise habits that can serve you for years to come. Call +1 (615) 297-2700 or schedule your appointment online.
Should You See a Rheumatologist for Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Approximately 1.5 million people in the U.S. have rheumatoid arthritis (RA). For many, the chronic joint pain significantly inhibits daily quality of life. Unlike osteoarthritis, which typically affects some joints but not others, rheumatoid arthritis affects the entire body.
Individuals with RA may experience joints that are red, hot and swollen. Needless to say, this condition can be quite painful. Other common symptoms include fever, fatigue, and energy loss.
The fact that we don’t know what causes RA is one reason why this autoimmune disease is so complex. Furthermore, there isn’t a standard test for diagnosing RA. Specially trained physicians, known as rheumatologists, must evaluate patients and recommend appropriate tests in order to make a diagnosis.
Why See a Rheumatologist for RA?
RA can be a complex disease, and the symptoms of RA can oftentimes be mistaken for something else. For this reason, it’s recommended that patients who have been diagnosed with RA – or exhibit RA-like symptoms – see a rheumatologist for care.
A rheumatologist may be able to offer an accurate diagnosis while avoiding unnecessary tests and procedures, which may be costly or uncomfortable. Also, a board-certified rheumatologist can recommend appropriate therapies based on extensive knowledge of this autoimmune disease. Many rheumatology providers even specialize in ultrasound-guided injections and other therapies commonly used in treating RA.
Ultrasound-Guided Injections for RA
There are several medications that can be injected directly into joints damaged by RA. Corticosteroids are one commonly injected medication. These injections can be helpful for lubricating the joint and providing relief from inflammation.
The Good News About RA
While rheumatoid arthritis is a serious diagnosis, the good news is that the earlier it’s diagnosed, the sooner it can be treated. And earlier treatment may lead to better outcomes in many cases.
Ready to See a Rheumatologist In Nashville?
Are you ready to see a rheumatologist for the specialized care you deserve? Schedule an appointment with a rheumatologist in Nashville at St. Thomas Medical Group by calling +1 (615) 964-5823. Not quite ready to schedule? Have questions about insurance, billing, or other aspects of care? Please feel free to contact us!
5 Tips for Handling Spring Allergies in Nashville
We hate to say it. We really do. But you know it’s coming… Nashville’s spring allergy season is right around the corner. We’ve discussed the causes behind Nashville’s allergens, as well as testing and treatment methods. But is there anything you can do now to reduce the severity of symptoms? The ENT specialists and allergists at St. Thomas Medical Group say, yes!
#1 Mold Removal in the Home
Pollen’s not the only culprit that could be lurking behind your allergy symptoms. Mold is a common offender… and it could be hiding out in your home. Especially common in Middle Tennessee, where we often have high humidity and warm temperatures, mold may grow under leaky kitchen or bathroom sinks, in dehumidifiers, and in poorly sealed windows. Remove mold by scrubbing with a mixture of bleach and water. If mold is caused by a leak or some other moisture source, address the root of the problem, too! Get those pipes sealed.
#2 HEPA Filters on Vacuums
While most any new vacuum will have a decent air filter, there’s nothing quite like a HEPA filter (high efficiency particulate air filter), which can filter out 99.7% of particles that are within a diameter of 0.3 microns or more (source). HEPA filters can remove much of the pollen and dander in your home that causes allergies.
#3 Rethink Your Decor
While regular cleaning and vacuuming can go a long way in reducing allergens, you may also want to rethink the decor in your home.
Hard floor surfaces are easier to clean and less likely to trap allergens than rugs and carpets.
Roll-up shades will hold fewer allergens than drapes and curtains.
Plastic covers over mattresses and pillows can prevent dander from settling in.
#4 Change Air Filters
Change your HVAC’s air filter every 90 days or so. Change it more frequently if you have pets, a high number of occupants, or asthma or allergies. A high efficiency filter can help keep your home’s air more pure. If using an air purifier, check to see that it offers enough coverage for the room it’s operating in; update to a HEPA filter, if available.
#5 See a Doctor Before Symptoms Start
If your Nashville allergies haven’t kicked into gear, but you know it’s just a matter of time, schedule an appointment with a local allergist now. New treatments or combinations of treatments may be available since you saw your doctor last allergy season. Get a head start on allergies by being proactive and seeing your physician.
Find an ENT/Allergist at St. Thomas Medical Group (Nashville)
Struggling with allergy symptoms? Call on the Nashville ENT & Allergy Clinic. Contact St. Thomas Medical Group at +1 (615) 386-9089 to learn more.
