Living Well listens to staff, faculty

September 26, 2011

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Living Well, the on-campus wellness program for University of Florida faculty and staff, has a new director with a mission.

Cassie Macias, an alumna of the University of Florida, started as director at Living Well in June and has been hard at work reorganizing and upgrading the facility and its services.

“We surveyed our members to see what interested them and what they wanted from the program,” Macias said. “We are figuring out ways to better service our members, spur growth and continue to evolve.” Along with the addition of more classes, including zumba, Macias has involved students from the College of Health and Human Performance to work with members and run the facility.

The program which is housed in a 7,500-square-foot facility located in Yon Hall at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, is perfect for faculty and staff not just because of its location, but also because of the low-key environment at the gym, said Macias.

“There are not a lot of people waiting for equipment or a lot of extra noise,” Macias said. “Members work out together and there is a lot of camaraderie.”

Along with access to the pool at the Florida Gym and free parking, Living Well also provides members with personal training and an assessment test to show fitness growth.

For Macias, Living Well’s goal is to get its members fit and healthy.
“Anything that you can do to reduce your risk for health issues and reduce stress is good for you,” Macias said. “Moving your body any way at all can only benefit you in the long run.”

Macias graduated with a bachelor’s degree in physical education from UF and a master’s degree in physical education from Delta State University. Macias served as athletic director and fitness center coordinator for San Diego City College, where she was involved in the planning and organization of a new $13 million facility.