April Newsletter 2023
UPDATE FROM OUR GENERAL MANAGER
Dear Hills Members,
I guess we can all agree that we are now familiar with atmospheric rivers. It's crazy to think that California has endured more than a dozen of these heavy wind and rain storms this year. Thankfully the atmospheric rivers that we experienced these past few months did not cause massive damage to the club. As a precautionary measure, we removed one leaning eucalyptus tree to avoid potential damage from a future wind or rain storm. My hope is that the worst is behind us.
Thank you for your patience while we replaced the Family Pool heater. I know that the temperature of the Family Pool was pretty cold for about a week or so, but the installation of the new heater was successful and all should be running smoothly now.
I'm happy to share that we purchased a new tennis ball machine! Sydney, our Tennis Coordinator, has more details below regarding the new machine. You can find it on the Manzanita Court; simply reserve the court to use it. Please be aware that you will be required to leave your keys at the front desk in exchange for the remote control needed to operate the ball machine.
Happy Easter everyone!
-Nick
Upcoming Events
April 10: Free Adult Beginner/Novice Tennis Clinic 6-7pm (weather permitting)
April 10: Free Adult Intermediate/Advanced Tennis Clinic 7-8pm (weather permitting)
Weekdays 11am-1pm: Pickleball on the Basketball Court
Group Exercise Builds Community
Our Saturday Series of Introductory Classes was such a big success last month that we are offering three more "intro" classes in April. Thank you to all who attended. I hope you enjoyed yourself and added a few classes to your fitness routine. I know the instructors really loved teaching the classes and meeting so many new members. For those of you that missed it last month, we offered Introduction to Mat Pilates, Introduction to Dance Fitness (La Blast) and Introduction to Yoga. And here's what's happening in April:
4/1: Introduction to Tai Chi
4/8 Beginner World Dance
4/15: Introduction to Total Body Challenge
April Introductory Class Offerings Please be sure to register (below) to assure a spot - classes are free.
We also added two new classes to this month's group exercise schedule! Beginning April 22nd, Jhunehl will lead the new World Dance class, Saturdays at 11:30am. In addition, we are offering Total Body Challenge on Tuesdays at 11:30am; first class kicks off on April 3rd.
Spring Group Exercise Schedule
Please click here to register for any of the group exercise classes. Be sure to click on "learn more" and it will direct you to the sign up link.
Hope to see you in class -
- Angelique Pine, Group Exercise Director, [email protected]
Step Out of Your Comfort Zone
Goals are usually set to help us get motivated and to give us a reason to work a little harder. Without a goal, it's more challenging to get uncomfortable when we could stay in bed or when it's cold outside or when happy hour is just so much more appealing. This applies to everything in life, we progress by stepping out of our comfort zone. Some people are motivated by specific short term goals, like running a 5k or exercising 3 days per week. For others, having long term or less specific goals are extremely motivating, like being able to see grandchildren grow up or having a stronger core and maintaining a good posture. If you're having a hard time getting motivated to exercise, find your "why" or what it is that is preventing you from making it a priority. What is it that could get you moving but more importantly, keep you moving in the long term? It needs to be true and it needs to be important to YOU. If you need a little push, some information or some accountability, we are here to help you reach your goal!
Jeff Allen, [email protected]
Jenn Nasab, [email protected]
Angelique Pine, [email protected]
-Jenn Nasab, Hills Fitness Coordinator, [email protected]
2023 Personal Training Rates
Adult (single session/10 session package)
Private Session: $120/$1100
Semi Private: $75/person/$700
Groups ≥3: $65/person/$600
Senior ≥65 years of age (single session/10 session package)
Private Session: $100/$950
Semi Private: $65/person/$600
Groups ≥3: $55/person/$500
Youth ≤17 years of age (single session/10 session package)
Private Session: $100/$950
Semi Private: $65/person/$600
Groups ≥3: $55/person/$500
Gain Strength in our Peak Fit Classes
After our successful programs last month we will be taking a 2 week break and resuming the classes the last 2 weeks of April. Look out for an email with some information about upcoming classes. Additionally, we will be adding a second All About Strength class on Thursdays at 10:30am, starting April 3rd.
Please remember to register for our classes, we need a minimum of 3 people for class to happen. If that minimum isn't met, class is canceled. If we cancel class, you don't pay. If you're new, REGISTER! We also ask that you cancel in a timely manner as our classes are limited in capacity. We're offering a 10 class package at $180 and your drop in fee is $20 per class. We hope to see you there.
Reach out to me at [email protected] to register for either of these classes.
- Jenn Nasab, Hills Fitness Coordinator, [email protected]
Move with The Hills Pilates & Wellness Studio
Happy Spring!!
This month we reflect on another quote from Joseph Pilates, "Change happens through movement and movement heals."
Spring is a time of change and we are probably all welcoming a change in the weather. Change is good, although you could argue that we have been through more changes in the last couple of years than we ever bargained for. What J. Pilates was referring to, though, is positive change, the kind of change that we wish for, that we, ourselves, initiate and can become part of.
Often when an illness or injury occurs, we feel upset and maybe even helpless; this is an unwelcome change. Illness can be scary and uncertain and sustaining injuries may mean the end of a lifestyle. What can we do ourselves to lessen the blow of injuries or of a tough diagnosis?
As is often the case, one of my clients walked in the other day and gave an answer to this.
He said, "I feel good and excited about how my physical therapist is giving me exercises that help me through my injury and let me enjoy my hobbies again. When I do the movements, they hurt, but afterwards, I hurt less." He had discovered how change happens through movement and how movement heals.
Movement can do more than ward off negative changes like injuries, weight gain, or stiff joints. We can also set fitness goals that can bring positive change. Apart from aiding in repairing a shoulder or a knee, exercise and movement brings joy. Even a 10-minute walk will change our brain chemistry, allowing us to shake off the small stuff and to feel better.
The hard part, of course, is getting started. This winter made it particularly hard. So I'll share another brilliant quote from a fellow instructor, "If I wait until I feel like exercising, it will never happen!"
This is why our group classes are so popular; you join in with others and get moving. And maybe even more importantly, have a lot of fun! In the end that is what it is really all about.
We welcome you into the Pilates Studio this Spring to join us for fun, core work, and movement that heals!
In Health,
- Pilates Director Therese, Anne, Barbara, Colleen, Elizabeth, Hadley, and Yulia
More Reformer Class Options
Our new reformer classes are already filling up, but there is still a couple of openings:
Tuesdays at 4pm, Mixed level reformer with Barbara
Thursdays at 9:30am, Mixed level reformer with Colleen
Sign up for reformer class online or on the Hills app: https://cachstc.clubautomation.com/
Are you new to Pilates and/or the reformer?
Contact our studio today to learn more about our small group training reformer program and to schedule your introduction: [email protected]
Please note that all students new to Pilates MUST have an intake session and assessment in order to join a class, no exceptions. All new reformer students with previous Pilates experience MUST receive an introduction to the reformer equipment before attending class. Students who show up for class without proper intake sessions completed may be turned away. This is to ensure everyone's safety and enjoyment while offering our classes at the level and format as advertised.
April Pilates Studio class schedule:
PILATES STUDIO SCHEDULE APRIL 2023
Home or in Studio: Keep It Moving
This class is based on this month's J. Pilates quote, "Change happens through movement and movement heals." The popular format was born out of the necessity of offering a class over Zoom while we were all stuck sheltering in place. Now you can attend in person or in the comfort of your own home (or while traveling!) over Zoom. We do low impact cardio, focus on balance, strength training and functional movement before we drop to the mat and endure 30 minutes of safe, but challenging Pilates and flexibility training. All to a bumping soundtrack. The Zoom format makes it both convenient and affordable ($22 per class). Want to try it for yourself? You will need a mat, resistance band, a mini Pilates ball or a pillow and small weights for your home workout. Or come to the Pilates studio where we will have all of the required equipment.
Contact our studio to receive the Zoom link: [email protected]
Sign up online or on the Hills app: https://cachstc.clubautomation.com/
Partner Up with Your Own Pilates Coach
Our Pilates Instructors have decades of experience in Pilates, wellness, fitness, and exercise science. We offer Pilates training for injury rehab and "prehab", athletic conditioning, cancer treatment, recovery and more. You can train with us over Zoom, too. Contact our studio to learn more and to sign up:
[email protected]
WE ARE ON INSTAGRAM:https://www.instagram.com/hillspilatesandwellness/
Instill Discipline with Tae Kwon Do
If you're looking for a kids activity, we have a long running Tae Kwon Do program. Sensei Jeff Allen has been teaching both members and non-members Tae Kwon Do here at The Hills for years. Jeff focuses on courtesy, integrity, perseverance, and self-control with the kids. This ancient Korean art of self defense can help ease emotional problems such as stress and depression, while promoting physical fitness. This is a year-round program for kids ages 5-17. Each session involves kicking, punching and self defense, but most of all, Sensei Jeff encourages the kids to have fun. The overall goal of the program is to instill confidence, teach respect, and focus on positive self esteem. Currently there are 13 students enrolled ranging from 5 years old to 12 years old.
Days/Times:
Tuesdays & Thursdays 3:30–4:45pm (Beginner)
Tuesdays & Thursdays 6–7:15pm (Advanced)
Member cost: $85 per month
Non-member: $100 per month
For more information or to register your child, please contact:
Jeff Allen - [email protected]
510-339-0234 x18
Keep Fit with Aqua Fitness
Exercising in the water offers a number of benefits and you don't have to be an expert swimmer to enjoy an aqua fitness class. The exercises are low impact and help improve your flexibility without hurting your joints.
Our aqua classes are open to all ages and abilities. We supply any flotation devices such as flotation belts, noodles, styrofoam barbells and more. Our certified instructors will guide participants through a variety of motions including water walking/running, abdominal work and toning exercises.
We offer aqua fitness 4 days a week from 9-10am, and the workouts vary, and best of all they are included with your membership. The instructors for this popular group exercise class are as follows: Tuesdays w/ Bz, Thursdays w/ Sandra, Fridays w/ Ellen and Sundays w/ various instructors. NOTE: if any of these instructors are sick or on vacation, one will be sure to step in. Classes are well attended and therefore we kindly ask that you register in advance if you plan on participating.
Just Keep Swimming
Lap Lane Swimming Rules:
- Lap Lane reservations remain weekdays from 9am-2pm in lanes 4, 5, & 6. All other lanes and times are available for shared member swimming. Our reservations open at 8am 3 days in advance. For example, on
- Friday morning at 8am, members can log in and book a lap lane for Monday.
Please Note: Hills Hurricane Swim Team will be using no more than 4 lanes from 4-8pm, Monday-Friday.
High Demand for Swim Lessons
Our swim instructors have openings for private and semi-private lessons. Refer to the link below on how to book swim lessons. Please be mindful that our priority is for the membership and their time in the pool, so we are only allowing a certain number of lessons at one time. We kindly ask that you follow the directions when requesting a lesson and have a high level of flexibility as peak times are generally full and we do not offer a wait list. Instructors may not respond if directions are not followed properly.
Learn more about our offerings here!
New swim lesson pricing (as of March 1)
Swim lesson rates will be increasing this month. We have also modified our guest/non-member pricing to reflect other offerings at the club.
Private Lessons (30 min)
Members $55
Non-Members $60
(Swimmers currently enrolled in swim team receive the 10th lesson free)
Semi-Private Lessons (30 min) (2-3 people max, we do not organize semi-private lessons)
Members $30/each swimmer
Non-Members $35/each swimmer
Hills Hurricane Swim Team News
Congratulations to the nine Hills swimmers who competed at the regional Far Westerns meet the first weekend of April. Jeffrey Latronica, Silas Carpenter, Nik Costello, Mirek Hanacek, Andrew Nguyen, Taylor Rolefson, Tom Rolefson, Lucien Regnier, and Nathan Rogers. Latronica, 12 years old, placed in all of his races, with his top performance being the 200 Backstroke with a time of 2:12.30. Carpenter, 13 years old, had outstanding results in his freestyle races with his top performance being the 50 Freestyle with a time of 22.91. The high school swimmers have their league, sectional, and state meets coming up in the next month. We wish them luck!
Pre-Comp Groups Selected for Spring Season
Spring Registration is closed. Our groups have been selected through Spring. We may, if needed, add another tryout if we have space for summer. Information is always updated here.
Jr. Lifeguard Camps Almost Full
Our popular Junior Lifeguard Camp will be offered again this June. This program is designed as a community-based water safety program for youths 10–15 years old. The Junior Lifeguard Training Program has been developed to serve many purposes where water safety is our primary goal. Along with water safety activities we engage in CPR and First Aid training. A secondary benefit is the unique combination of establishing the foundation for good work skills, responsibilities, skill development, competition, and leadership skills.
The camp includes 30 minutes of daily fitness, lectures, demonstrations, and team building activities. An additional two hours per week of volunteering may be required by each Jr. guard. Course prerequisite: 50 yards of freestyle or breaststroke. Retrieve a 10-lb brick from a depth of 12 feet. Swim underwater 15 feet.
Lunch/Snacks are not provided.
Time: 9am-2pm daily
Sessions Available: June 12-16 & June 26-30
Sign up online!
Spring Into Our Tennis Clinics
New Ball Machine
Our brand new ball machine has arrived! With a whopping 200-ball capacity, the Playmate Ace Ball Machine is lightweight with wheels, durable and easy to handle. It offers electronic direction from 1 to 3 lines and a selection of intervals, trajectories, elevation and spin.
This top-tier piece of equipment has made its home on Manzanita court. All intermediate and advanced players are welcome to use the machine, just reserve the court and check in with the front desk. NOTE: You'll be required to leave a set of keys in exchange for the remote needed to operate the machine.
Please be sure to review the ball machine rules and reminders before your first hitting session. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an in-person or virtual tutorial on how to use the machine, feel free to email Coach Sydney at [email protected].
April 10: Free Adult Tennis Clinic
For those adults new to the club, new to tennis or looking to improve your backhand, we welcome you to join us on the second Monday of each month* for our complimentary Adult Tennis Clinics! This month's clinics will be held on April 10. No sign-up necessary. This monthly event is free, and open to members only. From 6-7pm, beginners get an hour of instruction; 7-8pm is for intermediate/advanced players. Eddie Pasternak leads these clinics each month for adults with all skill levels. If rain is in the forecast, the clinic will be cancelled.
Outdoor Family Fun
If you are looking for a fun way for the entire family to workout outdoors together, we have options! Members can reserve an hour "block" of time to use the court. This does not mean that the court has to be used solely by one family unit during the hour; feel free to welcome and/or challenge other members to a friendly pickleball or basketball game. If you don't have your own equipment, you can ask the front desk staff for the pickleball bag (complete with paddles and balls) and/or basketballs.
Our court is reserved exclusively for pickleball from 11am to 1pm on weekdays. Games during these "open" weekday hours are friendly, social games with some accommodations made for beginning players. You'll see people of all ages and athletic ability having fun on our court. If you are not familiar with pickleball, it's one of the fastest growing sports and easiest to learn the rules of play and scoring and the order of serving if you play with someone who already knows them, so mark your calendar and join in on the fun!
Just outside of our enclosed court, we have 2 ping pong (or table tennis) tables. Both young and old can improve eye-hand coordination and fine motor skills by playing ping pong. The front desk has paddles and balls for members to borrow, so take a break from the pool and start some friendly competition with other members.
These three activities are a great excuse to come up to the club, get some exercise and maybe even make new friends! All we ask is that you kindly return any borrowed equipment to the front desk when you are finished playing.
Preparing for Summer Camp
Have you registered your kid(s) for summer camp? Similar to last year we will be offering 11 weeks of FULL day camp, 8:30am-5:30pm. Campers will participate in a variety of activities each day including (but not limited to) swimming, other outdoor sports, hikes, games, arts and crafts and theater. All pool activities will be supervised by a certified lifeguard.
- Week 1: May 30 to June 2 (*no camp on Monday, May 29, Memorial Day*)
- Week 2: June 5 to June 9
- Week 3: June 12 to June 16
- Week 4: June 19 to June 23
- Week 5: June 26 to June 30
- Week 6: July 3 to July 7
- Week 7: July 10 to July 14
- Week 8: July 17 to July 21
- Week 9: July 24 to July 28
- Week 10: July 31 to August 4
- Week 11: August 7 to August 11
Cost: $500 per week* per camper
*$400 for Week 1 since it will only be a 4-day camp
To register via your member portal, log onto your Club Automation account (cachstc.clubautomation.com)
Any questions related to Summer Camp 2023 or if you are having difficulty trying to register, please contact Summer Camp Director Anthony Lum, [email protected].
Cabana Season on the Horizon
With the crazy, wet weather we've had these past few months, there hasn't been much lounging happening in the cabanas. Hopefully that won't be the case in the distant future. As soon as we are completely clear of any more atmospheric rivers or high wind advisories, we will put the cabana covers back on and the couch cushions will come out of storage. Fingers crossed for warm weather so members can gather and enjoy this great amenity!
Reservations for our cabanas open at 8am 3 days in advance. For example, on Tuesday morning at 8am, members can log in and book a cabana reservation for Friday. Please be aware that families can only make one 2-hour reservation per day. We kindly ask that members tidy up the cabana at the end of each use.
Celebrate April Employee Birthdays
Stefani McDermott, 04/03
Hendrick Van Nierkerk, 04/25
Barbara Hoffer, 04/26
Angelique Pine, 04/27
Bex Ortiz, 04/28
