Appleton, WI Health and Fitness

A specialist in jaw orthopedics and orthodontics, Dr. Robert Hering founded Fox Valley Dental on the quest for sturdy jaws and straight bites. Since 1975, he has corrected maxillofacial flaws through more than 600 TMJ cases and 4,000 orthodontics cases, working both with traditional braces and Invisalign aligners. For those plagued by sleep apnea, he helps clear breathing pathways with mouthpieces that are easy to hide in a spouse's sandwich.

Dr. Hering’s office design betrays his fondness for the outdoors. Row upon row of windows throw the waiting room open to natural light, which falls upon rustic wooden fixtures. The operatory's French doors look out over a lawn enclosed in shrubbery, where woodland creatures find privacy to pick bits of acorn from their braces.

Dr. Jolanta Pajek opened Modern Touch Dentistry after heading up dental practices in Toronto, Canada, and London, England. At her Appleton practice, she approaches dentistry with technologies such as low-radiation digital x-rays and air abrasion, which treats minor cavities with a blast of air rather than a drill. For patients with anxieties about dental work or wearing paper bibs, Dr. Pajek offers free sedation consultations to discuss whether the clinic's conscious-sedation options would make their appointments more pleasant.

To study Chinese medicine, James Rodowca went to the source. He studied at Guangzhou University in China to earn credentials that enhance his already stacked resumé—he also holds a bachelor’s degree in human biology and a master’s in Oriental medicine. His extensive studies inform his practice of these ancient arts at Acupuncture One, though he also gets some help from technology. Digital Meridian Imaging maps the body’s energy pathways, as well as the spots on the body where energy’s movement is blocked by external forces or by the heart’s annual street parade. With the insertion of thin acupuncture needles, James can unblock these passageways and help the body restore balance in order to alleviate such common ailments as allergies, stress, and depression. James also curates a stock of potent herbal supplements that complement his hands-on treatments to treat a slew of issues.

Ancient Greek physician Hippocrates made a deep impression on modern medicine—he inspired the oath that all physicians swear to before offering their talents to the world. Renee Waters, ND believes that "do no harm" is one of the most important precepts that Hippocrates ever penned. Since 1984, she has helped patients improve their health without introducing them to potentially harmful artificial drugs or invasive procedures, such as surgery or food-pyramid tattoos. Instead, she employs natural techniques, including reflexology and herbal medicine, to improve the function of major organs and leaves patients feeling cleansed and energized with detoxifying treatments. One of her most popular treatments is the Ultimate Healing Massage, which incorporates a scalp massage, lymph drainage, and acupressure work. Her naturopathic scope also includes iridology sessions, where she analyzes markings on patients' irises to evaluate physical and psychological health.

Fox River Fitness Boot Camp’s instructors Joel Zeiner and Alicia Doerr—endowed with NETA and NSCA personal trainer certifications, respectively—specialize in reintroducing physical activity to those who have long done without. On orientation day for new students, they'll record a confidential health history, take measurements, and set goals designed to aid students in tracking their progress. They equip each attendee with all the accessories and gear needed for each class, meaning that trainees need only bring comfortable clothes in which to move and sweat.

Inspire Fitness Studio—the fitness center used for the boot camp—boasts ultra-modern yet unintimidating confines that aim to appeal to the peepers while comforting new clients. Exposed golden-brick walls warm up the ceiling’s network of industrial piping, while floor-to-ceiling windows reveal picturesque views of the river and synchronized parasailors.

At Navarino Hills, skis, snowboards, and inner tubes zoom down trails blanketed in freshly made snow. Double chairlifts and cable tows ferry visitors to the top of the slopes so they can start their run or help search for the yeti's lost contacts. After hitting the mountain, head inside the chalet to warm up with hot cocoa, coffee, or cappuccino daily or fish fries every Friday.