May Newsletter 2023

UPDATE FROM OUR GENERAL MANAGER

Dear Hills Members,

As quickly as the storms left, they appear to not be done quite yet. Yet, in anticipation of warmer weather and BBQ season, we purchased three new outdoor gas grills to replace some of the older grills. These grills are first come, first served and in case you forget or are a new member, we now have an outdoor sink available if you need to clean your utensils once you're done grilling. The sink is located outside the lobby doors near the lost and found by the kitchen window.

It's come to my attention that some female members with disabilities have had to wait for the handicap shower to become available in the women's locker room because able-bodied members are using this shower stall for extensive periods of time. Please be mindful that the stall marked with a handicap placard is the only one that some of your fellow members can use due to disabilities and/or injuries.

We plan to have both the Manzanita and Diablo Tennis courts resurfaced this month. The tentative date to begin this project is Thursday May 18th and starting with the Manzanita court. More information will be sent via email as the date approaches.

Wishing all the moms out there a very Happy Mother's Day!!! Additionally, thank you to all of the veterans for serving our country as we pay respect on Memorial Day!

-Nick

Upcoming Event:

Join Coach Sydney for Tennis Night at The Hills on June 2nd at 6-8pm. This event is open to all and is an opportunity for kids and adults to meet other players. There will be pizza, refreshments, and activities (with prizes). Plus a special "event only" offer – 10% registration discount for those who attend and register for summer tennis programs. *Remember to bring your racquets so that you can participate in the on-court games! Please RSVP here by May 31.

Artist Corner: Katie Barron

Making art and being creative has been a constant in longtime Hills' member Katie Barron's life. She feels that art allows her to explore images, color, ideas, solve problems, and practice "not knowing the outcome". "It helps me develop patience, acceptance, and pursue self-reflection. And it's a wonderful way to recharge and refresh from my career as a Registered Nurse and parent of two boys."

Last year Katie immersed herself in an intensive art program, the Creative Visionary Program. The CVP program pushed her further toward experimentation, to learning to be fearless, and to finding the image in the brush stroke. She believes this new-found wealth of techniques have led to the collection of paintings that are hanging on the lobby walls. Her hope is that each painting evokes a feeling of aliveness.

Katie would like to give a big "thank you" shout out to Hills member Sally Landis for encouraging her to show her work here at The Hills and also to her husband Alvin for his ever-present support, including making her terrific picture frames.

Next time you head up to the club, take a moment to stop and enjoy her beautiful artwork that will be featured this month in our lobby!

If you are an artist and would like to display your art in The Hills lobby, please email Sally Landis, [email protected].

Tennis Clinics & Programs Heat Up This Summer

Tennis weather is on its way! The first week of summer programming will begin May 30th and stretch through August 4th. With 8 one-week sessions, you will have the ability to register for when you are available and skip the weeks you are not. Members, friends and family are welcome to join!

Whether you are looking for a group clinic, private lesson, or resources to connect with players at the club, The Hills has it all. Register for clinics online or contact Coach Sydney Williams directly with inquiries and to book private lessons at [email protected].

Check out the tennis page on our website for details on session dates and clinic times.

Free Adult Tennis Clinic w/ Coach Eddie

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 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. *This month's clinics were held on May 1; next month's clinics will take place on June 12.

In-House Match Play

Are you looking to meet new players and spend more time on court? Sign-up for The Hills In-House Match Play League. This program gives members an opportunity to have coordinated match play at The Hills Club. While this program is competition based, each match is meant to be friendly and played in good-spirit. Sportsmanship and courtesy are regarded above all else in this league.

New Ball Machine Fixed

Our ball machine is back up and running! 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 at the front desk 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].

Group Exercise Classes Well Attended

This month marks the end of the California Athletic Club Zoom Schedule. I am sure many of you will join me in thanking our instructors for their dedication to stepping out of their comfort zone and grasping this new format which provided a much-needed connection for The Hills community through SIP. We appreciate our instructor's efforts and ability to adapt quickly to change. The Group Fitness team hopes to expand our offerings through YouTube and is currently researching sources for online content. Our Zoom classes will end on May 28, 2023.

Click here for our May Group Exercise schedule. There are a few minor changes from last month, including the return of Cardio Mix on Wednesdays - with a slightly altered start time.

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]

With Fitness, Consistency is Key

Spring is finally here! Consistency is key to keep moving towards our goals. Of course we all get thrown off our routine from time to time because of fun trips, events and life; and that's ok. It's all about the big picture. Remember we can take breaks, but we can never stop. Speaking of consistency, my consistency in training allowed me to run the Boston Marathon on April 17. My training had been very conservative because I feared that my lingering injury would keep me from running the race. Come race day I was so happy that my overall fitness allowed me to run AND finish despite getting to the start line undertrained. I appreciate all of your kind, congratulatory words. It just goes to show that long term training keeps us strong and allows us to maintain some fitness even when life happens and we're forced to do less. Get out there and be consistent!

Fitness Coordinator Jenn Nasab, Boston Marathon Finisher!

We'll be starting a 2-week youth strength and cardio program In July. These classes will teach your teens how to lift weights properly and how to maximize their cardio workouts.

Age: 13-17
Cost: $120 ($30 per class)
When: Monday & Wednesday 3-3:55pm (July 17, 19, 24 & 27)
Keep your eyes open for an email coming your way for details on how to register next week. If you have any questions, please reach out to me.

-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

To set up a PT session or to book your complimentary fitness orientation, reach out to any of our certified personal trainers:
Jeff Allen, [email protected]
Jenn Nasab, [email protected]
Angelique Pine, [email protected]

Peak Fit: All Levels Welcome

Our classes are on fire and so is everyone in them! Our schedule offers something for all levels, whether you want to work on stability and strength or you want to get a hard workout first thing in the morning. See our schedule below for class times and descriptions.

We are offering a new All About Strength class with Sara every Thursday at 10:30am. If you're interested in TRX classes but a little intimidated, Sara has got you covered. This class is a beginner-friendly class that focuses on strength.

Our current Peak Fit schedule:
Mondays 6am - Workout of the MonDay w/ Jenn
Get fitter, faster and stronger with this weekly workout. We'll focus on agility, power and strength exercise intervals to get you moving more efficiently.
Equipment: TRX - Kettlebells - Boxes - Skill Mill - Slam Balls - Battle ropes - Dumbbells and more…

Mondays 11am & Thursdays 10:30am - All About Strength w/ Sara
This beginner class focuses on strength building, using your body weight, the TRX and other equipment we have in the Peak Fit studio.

Thursdays 12pm - Summer Shape Up w/ Jenn
This class integrates strength, balance and flexibility movements utilizing TRX straps, kettlebells and other fun pieces of equipment.

You must register for our classes in order to participate. We require a minimum of 3 participants per class. You can unregister online, up to 12 hours prior to the start of class. We're offering a 10 class package at $180 and your drop in fee is $20 per class.

We hope to see you in class!

Reach out to me at [email protected] to register for either of these classes.

- Jenn Nasab, Hills Fitness Coordinator, [email protected]

The Hills Pilates & Wellness Studio

This month The Hills Pilates and Wellness Studio wants to highlight our fantastic Ballet Program! Our 2 ballet groups just wrapped up their spring semester with a recital. Our Summer Intensive Program will take place during the week of June 12-16. Summer Intensive for dancers, ages 5-10 years old, more information here:

Reformer Classes Now on Sundays!

For the month of May only:
Pilates Instructor Colleen McLarnon will be teaching 2 reformer classes on Sundays at 10am, 11am. While all levels are welcome and accommodated in both classes the 10am class will be a fast paced, full body workout and the 11am will be slower paced and geared towards flexibility, mobility and balance. See below for prerequisites for this class.
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.

May Pilates Studio class schedule:
PILATES STUDIO SCHEDULE MAY 2023

We Keep It Moving on Wednesdays at 5:15pm

Join in person or Zoom from your living room! We incorporate 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). 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. Contact our studio to receive the Zoom link:[email protected]
Sign up online or on the Hills app: https://cachstc.clubautomation.com/

Book a Private Session with a 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]

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/hillspilatesandwellness/

In Health,
- Pilates Director Therese, Anne, Barbara, Colleen, Elizabeth, Hadley, and Isabella

Kick Off the Summer 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

Our aqua classes are included in your membership and open to all ages and abilities. We supply any flotation devices such as flotation belts, noodles, styrofoam barbells and more. The workouts are easy on the joints and include water walking/running, abdominal work and toning exercises.

We offer these aqua fitness 4 days a week from 9-10am and are taught by the following instructors: Tuesdays w/ Bz, Thursdays w/ Sandra, Fridays w/ Ellen and Sundays w/ various instructors. NOTE: if any of the 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.

Lifeguards Return This Month!

Lifeguards will be on duty beginning Memorial Weekend, May 27, 28, 29, 12-7pm
Weekends starting June 3: 12-7pm
Weekdays starting June 5: 10am-7pm

Please take the time to review the pool rules here. Lifeguards will be enforcing all rules.

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.

Kids Learn to be "Pool Safe" with 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!

Our Pre-Comp Program Prepares Young Swimmers

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.

Lifesaving Skills Taught in Jr. Lifeguard Camp

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
A few spots are still available June 12-16 Sign up online!

Pickleball & More

Our "sport" 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.

Members can reserve an hour "block" of time for either pickleball, basketball, or both! 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 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.

Just outside of our enclosed court, we have 2 ping pong (or table tennis) tables. The front desk also has paddles and balls for members to borrow. All three of these 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.

Summer Camp Kicks off May 30

Do your kids have non-member friends that want to join them at our summer camp? If so, mark your calendars for May 15, because this is the day we will be opening registration for non-members for the following weeks*:

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 8: July 17 to July 21
Week 11: August 7 to August 11

*At this time, all other weeks will remain as "members only" weeks

The cost for non-members is $600 per week. Please share this information with any families interested in registering their child(ren) for our fun summer camp!

Our camp is a FULL day, 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.

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

The cabana covers have been reinstalled and we are ready for warm weather! Our cabanas are a great place to socialize with friends. 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 May Employee Birthdays

Please join us in wishing each of them a happy birthday and thanking them for all of their hard work!

Alex Holtzman, 05/06
Robin Rosario, 05/14
Sara Kimball, 05/23
Birgitte Rohrbach, 05/27