Altoona, IA Health and Fitness

For sisters Molly Sivertsen and Stephanie Becker, fitness is not just about looking good in a swimsuit, it is a way of life. Impassioned by a lifelong dedication to staying in shape, they honed their knowledge and skills as fitness instructors for two years before debuting their own haven for health, Fusion Fitness, in 2008. Members wave a pass card 24/7 to access the gym's treasure trove of cardio and weight equipment. Classes span a spectrum of workouts, from the focused flow of yoga to the rapid undulations of Zumba. The Silver Sneakers class blends strength training and aerobics into a single session that blasts calories and boosts cardiovascular endurance without straining joints. As they workout, patrons can leave their young under staff supervision in daycare center or children's fitness classes.

Personal trainers and nutrition counselors tackle health issues one by one, designing fitness plans tailored to each patron's needs. They escort clients on grocery store trips, pointing out which foods make nutritious ingredients for healthy meals and which make the best ammo during food fights with former bullies.

Dr. Joe Solinger doesn’t like to see his patients suffer. That’s why, as head of Jordan Creek Family Dentistry, PC, he focuses on setting them at ease with relaxation dentistry techniques. Using a combination of aromatherapy, nitrous oxide, and attention-diverting CDs and DVDs, he strives to make visits to the dentist as relaxing as tea time with one’s favorite stuffed animals. As patients relax in comfort, Dr. Solinger performs restorative and cosmetic procedures that range from filling cavities to whitening teeth stained by trying to eat still-life paintings of apples. Dr. Solinger also offers orthodontics and aligner orthodontics, including the orthodontic system Clear Correct.

When not tending to mouths at his practice, Dr. Solinger contributes to the community through organizations such as the Ronald McDonald House Charities and the Smile Squad Mobile Dental Clinic.

After an eye exam, knowledgeable sales staffers guide patients through the boutique's collection of frames from Coach, Ray-Ban, Prada, and Gucci, searching for lens pairings that make driving, computer work, and games of Operation easier. Technicians can then have prescriptions ready in as little as one hour.

Named for its holistic, whole-body philosophy, Full Circle Wellness is piloted by chiropractic doctors who use research-based methods and new technology to ease spinal tension and promote overall wellness. They begin sessions with examinations before carefully realigning the spine to prevent chronic pain, discomfort, or lurking. Their customized dietary and exercise plans help bolster treatment journeys, which begin in the bright reception area where mod-style, white hanging lamps suspend over a curved, white desk. Licensed massage therapist Karina assesses the condition of sore or tights bodies before using the latest techniques to knead muscles, reducing stress and increasing overall health and wellness.

The men’s league at Belle Plaine Country Club is no joke: its member roster boasts 112 players. As course manager Mike Coffman points out, “It’s an impressive number for a small town"—and a testament to the course’s charms. Its bluegrass fairways have become a lively gathering place for the community. The pines, elms, and oaks dotting the fairways have flourished for more than 80 years, during which time they've been nourished by a steady diet of misaimed balls and frustrated golfers’ tears. Two-time PGA champion Lonnie Nielsen, who grew up playing on the course, can still occasionally be seen teeing off here.

The course challenges players with tricky water hazards, and balls have to strap on their crampons and take out their rock picks to ascend the eighth hole’s elevated green. After a day spent on the fairways or at the driving range and practice putting green, players can unwind with a slice of pizza or a hamburger at the snack bar.

Course at a Glance:

• Nine-hole, par 36 course
• Length of 3,008 yards
• Course rating of 67.6
• Slope rating of 111