Fitness Class Schedule
The Health Club offers a variety of fitness classes that combine cardio and strength training including Aqua Aerobics, Cycling, Pilates, Yoga, Cardio Dance Fitness, TRX training, and more. Resort guests and members can also get back on track with a personalized workout program with a personal trainer, yoga instructor, or meditation coach.
New! Health Coaching Packages
Overcome mindsets that have been holding you back. Reach those fitness and nutrition goals you have been thinking about for a while now. Work alongside a Certified Health Coach and Fitness & Nutrition Specialist and set yourself up for success in the year ahead!
What the package provides:
- Initial Evaluation and follow up evaluation at the start or each month
- Personalized monthly plan based on your individual goals
- Weekly accountability
- One-hour training session each month (add on options available)
- Access to a private coaching community
Package Options: $149/1 month | $299/2 months | $499/6 months
Contact Andrea Bilderback at 231-534-6788 or [email protected].
Health Coaching Fitness Class Schedule Personal Training
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Member News
Keep up to date on the latest Member News and Events through our member newsletter and Club Facebook page. Not on our newsletter email list? Contact Nichole McDonald at 231.534.6586 or [email protected]
We are pleased to announce that some of the current mandates by the State of Michigan have been lifted. This includes group fitness classes, doubles tennis with people from separate households and tennis programming. Please note that masks and social distancing is still enforced with all these openings. We thank our members for being so patient as we navigate our way through the different state mandates.
As always if you have any questions or concerns please feel free to reach out to us.
Sincerely,
Dawn Olsen
Director of Recreation and Spa
[email protected] | 231-534-6754
Tennis Updates
Starting Saturday 1/16, tennis will be allowed to play doubles with masks on and 6’ social distancing at all times. Courts will be set up for social distancing on change overs. More communication to follow with regards to group tennis programming in the coming days. If you have questions please contact George Lowe at [email protected] or Lisa Seymour at [email protected]
Fitness Updates
We are pleased to announce that we will be starting back our IN-PERSON classes on Monday, January 18. This will include all the classes that have been virtual and our cycling and aqua classes as well! Please call the health club desk to sign up! 231-534-6770. We are asked to wear masks and socially distance during workouts.
Virtual Classes Still Available - We will still be offering the virtual class options in addition to in person classes. The virtual list would be the same as always and the class code and password the same as before.
Monday
Aqua Aerobics 8:00am & 9:00am
Turbo Tone 9:00am
Power Yoga 10:00am
Tuesday
Cycling 7:30am
Functionally Fit 8:30am
Gentle Yoga (Offered through Margaret) 1:00pm
Overachiever 5:15pm
Wednesday
Aqua Aerobics 8:00am & 9:00am
Turbo Tone 9:00am
Gentle Yoga 6:00pm
Thursday
Cycling 7:30am
Functionally Fit 8:30am
Gentle Yoga (Offered through Margaret) 1:00pm
Total Body Blast 5:15pm
Friday
Aqua Aerobics 8:00am & 9:00am
Move It 10:00am
Saturday
Cycling 8:00am
Weekend Warriors 9:00am
Power Yoga 11:00am
Golf Academy Updates
You may have received an email or notification from the Golf Association of Michigan (GAM) about renewing your GAM membership online with them. You have an option to renew online through the GAM website or contact Tom McGee to receive a discounted rate of $35 per person for the annual GAM Membership that includes handicap services and more. The $35 fee will be billed to your member account in April 2021.
Tom can be reached via email at [email protected]
Golf Academy Updates – correction below*
The Golf Academy is now open daily from 10am – 5pm. The Golf Academy provides a great way to keep your game in shape all winter long. We have 3 hitting bays with 2 simulators that offer range or on-course play.
Basic Golf Simulator Rates: $40 for 1 hour, $70 for 2 hours | *Member Practice Rates: $8 for ½ hourAs always, if you have any questions or concerns, please reach out.
Nichole McDonald – Membership Manager
[email protected]
231-534-6586
Dawn Olsen – Director of Spa and Recreation
[email protected]
231-534-6754
Andrea Bilderback – Manager of Recreation
[email protected]
231-534-6788
We hope to see you in the club very soon!
Stay safe to stay open!
Sincerely,
Dawn Olsen
Director of Spa and Recreation
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Programs and Descriptions
In Person and Virtual Classes
We are currently offering virtual class options in addition to in person classes. The virtual list will be the same as always and the class code and password the same as before.
Please call the health club desk at 231-534-6770 to sign up for classes. We are asked to wear masks and socially distance during workouts.
Monday
Aqua Aerobics 8:00am & 9:00am
Turbo Tone 9:00am
Power Yoga 10:00am
Tuesday
Cycling 7:30am
Functionally Fit 8:30am
Gentle Yoga (Offered through Margaret) 1:00pm
Overachiever 5:15pm
Wednesday
Aqua Aerobics 8:00am & 9:00am
Turbo Tone 9:00am
Gentle Yoga 6:00pm
Thursday
Cycling 7:30am
Functionally Fit 8:30am
Gentle Yoga (Offered through Margaret) 1:00pm
Total Body Blast 5:15pm
Friday
Aqua Aerobics 8:00am & 9:00am
Move It 10:00am
Saturday
Cycling 8:00am
Weekend Warriors 9:00am
Power Yoga 11:00amPower Yoga (Saturday 11:00am,45 min) Relax as our instructor walks you through meditative exercises and stretches that will help you start your morning out right. This class is sure to leave you feeling invigorated and ready to face whatever the day may bring. (Virtual and in person class available. Please call the Health Club Desk at 231-534-6770, for the class code and password. -Jamie Bell)
OverAchiever/Total Body Blaster (Tuesday/Thursday 5:15pm, 45 min) Do you desire to be pushed past your own limita-tions? Become stronger, build endurance and push through mental barriers that can inhibit results. This class will push you beyond what you could Achieve on your own. Implementing various techniques and modalities this class will bring out your inner athlete. The class offers modifications for all fitness levels. (Virtual and in person class available. Please call the Health Club Desk at 231-534-6770, for the class code and password. -Andrea Bilderback)
Turbo Tone (Monday & Wednesday 9:00, 45 min) This class offers a wide range of exercises to help tone and strengthen. You will be challenged and pushed to your limits with a fun mix of cardio and resistance exercises. High energy and creative use of equipment make this a great start to your day! Class can be modified for any fitness level. All are welcome! (Virtual and in person class available. Please call the Health Club Desk at 231-534-6770, for the class code and password. -Carla Bush)
Gentle Yoga (Tuesday & Thursday 1:00pm, Wednesday 6:00pm 45 min) Join our practice of the gentle art of yoga in the comfort of your own home with your computer on Zoom. This interactive and mindful practice will include postures, breath exercise, and meditation that cultivate flexibility, strength, and balance in body and mind and spirit. Inner peace that heals is the ultimate gift of this ancient art. Ongoing classes will be offered on Thursdays at 1:00 P.M. Joining is easy, just contact the health club desk at 231-534-6770. If you are not familiar with using Zoom, don’t worry, it’s easy and we will walk you through it! (Virtual and in person class available. Please call the Health Club Desk at 231-534-6770, for the class code and password. -Margaret Bennett teaches the Tuesday & Thursday classes. The Wednesday class is taught by Jamie Bell)
Weekend Warriors (Saturday 9:00am, 45min) Don’t let the weekend derail your fitness goals! Designed to motivate and challenge, this class will not disappoint. This interval training class will move you from one station to the next, keeping your heart rate up for maximal fat burn. Come ready to fight like a warrior as you prepare for the week ahead. All fitness levels are welcome. Set your own pace. (Virtual and in person class available. Please call the Health Club Desk at 231-534-6770, for the class code and password. -Carla Bush/Andrea Bilderback)
Kickboxing (Not available at this time) “Kick it up a notch” with this fast and furious cardio workout. A generous mix of kickboxing moves with built in strength segments. Designed for those who struggle to fit cardio in, this class is offered midday for a quick lunch break workout option. Modifications for beginner to advanced fitness.
Functionally Fit (Tuesday/Thursday 8:30am,55 min) Increase muscle strength and endurance using a variety of modalities including body weight exercises, kettlebells, body bars, trx and more. Exercises will include both lifting weights for major/minor muscle groups and compound lifting for increasing overall muscle strength, function and flexibility. Designed to mimic everyday movement and activities. All fitness levels encouraged to join. Meet outside the Health Club entrance. (Virtual and in person class available.. Please call the Health Club Desk at 231-534-6770, for the class code and password. -Carla Bush)
Move It (Friday 10:00am-45 min) This class offers a fusion of Barre, Pilates, and Step movements to create a routine you will look forward to each week. Get caught up in the music, build strength and torch calories in this low-impact cardio option. Experience an original choreographed seg-ment geared for those with two left feet. (In Person and Virtual Class. Please call the Health Club Desk at 231-534-6770, for the class code and password. -Andrea Bilderback)
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Swimming Lessons
SWIM LESSON INFORMATION- Pick up a key for the locker room at the activity desk. Locker rooms and pre-shower rooms are downstairs. Towels are provided
- Water temp of recreation pool is approx. 85 degrees. There is a 3 ft and 5 ft area
- We prefer children not to swim prior to their lesson. They may be too exhausted to participate or listen
- We prefer children with long hair to be tied up in a ponytail or braids for breath holding and face in water part of the lesson
- Have children use the restroom prior to the lesson. Parent needs to be available if child needs to use restroom
- Swim diapers needed for those not potty trained are available at Health Club Desk
- Yes, the water tastes salty. This is a new system that changes salt to a form of chlorine
- Please do not bring your child to class if they have a respiratory cold with a runny nose and coughing
- Wet hair absorbs less chlorine. Also, a bathing cap offers additional protection
- Meijer sells ears plugs, bathing caps, and a solution called Auro-dri to dry the ears
- Contact the swim instructor if your child is unable to attend a lesson, 231-534-6770. Also, please call about possible cancellation of lessons due to weather
- Some children may wish to use goggles
COVID-19 PROTOCOL- Masks are to be worn at all times except while in the water
- Locker rooms will not be available. Preshower rooms are available for changing after lessons. We ask that swimmers come ready to get in the pool, if at all possible, to avoid too many guests using preshower rooms at once
- Teacher will wear mask when unable to keep a 6 foot distance from swimmers
- A responsible adult should be present for drop off and pick up. And for preschool lessons we ask that a parent is present at all times
- One parent allowed per child. Please do not bring siblings unless they are participating in the lessons
Call 231-534-6770 to schedule swim lessons and follow the link below to complete your registration.
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Personal Training
The Club
Would you like to have personalized workouts that are designed just for your needs? Do you have a hard time staying on track with working out and need accountability? You could benefit from hiring a personal trainer! We will find a trainer who can work with your schedule and get you on track
Check out our packages and find the best fit for you:- 3 sessions for $145*
- 6 sessions for $275*
- 10 sessions for $425*
- 16 sessions for $650*
*must use within 6 months of purchase.
Call the Health Club Desk at 231-534-6770 for more information.
Upcoming Events


Barefoot Magazine
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Instant Gratification
HydraFacial delivers results on first treatment
By Cymbre FosterWhen Spa Grand Traverse cosmetologist Sandra Umstead received her first HydraFacial, the results were so amazing that she knew it was something she wanted her clients to experience as well.
HydraFacial is a patented technology that marries a deeply cleansing facial treatment with relaxation.
“After just one visit, this medical-grade procedure leaves the skin with improved clarity, texture, and tone,” Umstead says.
I admit I needed convincing that it could be that good when I arrived at the spa for my first HydraFacial. Truth be told, I’d rather spend my money on a new pair of shoes than skin care, and I didn’t think she would be able to do that much with my neglected, sun-damaged, slightly saggy, middle-aged skin.
Was I ever wrong.
Instant Results
A HydraFacial is a three-part treatment that begins with cleansing that removes dead skin cells and excess oil from the skin. Next, salicylic and glycolic acids are applied to break up any dirt and oil that's clogging pores. Then the HydraPeel Tip is used to painlessly suction out blackheads, dirt, oil, and impurities, while hydrating, plumping, and nourishing serums are simultaneously applied to the skin.
“No more manual extractions that may leave the skin blotchy and inflamed,” Umstead says. “The powerful serums break it all down, allowing the vacuum to pull it all up.”
The best part is that after just one HydraFacial, you will see immediate results. I certainly did.
“This treatment satisfies our need for instant gratification, so clients can’t wait for the next treatment,” Umstead says.
Corrine Olson is one of those clients.
“My favorite facial at the spa is the HydraFacial,” she says. “It’s the first time I can say that I noticed results.”
Each treatment starts with before and after photos.
“We have the ability to compare them side by side after your treatment,” Umstead explains. “This allows us to better track your progress every time you come in.”
For many clients, seeing those results is motivation not just to come back, but also to continue better skin-care regimens at home.
Umstead pulled up my pictures, and, to my surprise, I had fewer lines on my face and my skin was truly hydrated — literally glowing, in fact.
Part of a Skin-Care Routine
Since Umstead has consistently treated herself to HydraFacials, she no longer needs to wear makeup. Her skin did look flawless.
For long-term benefits and correction purposes, Umstead recommends treatments every six weeks. For maintenance, she suggests having one each season.
“This treatment is fairly active, and I like to think of it as waking up the skin,” she says.
“It’s invigorating and satisfying in many ways, which keeps clients coming back for more.”
When a friend commented on how nice my skin looked the day after my HydraFacial, I had to agree.
“You will leave with your skin glowing, looking healthy, hydrated, and with overall better skin tone,” Olson says. “I plan on keeping this as part of my skin-care routine.” -
Still the Best: The Bear at 35
Iconic course remains top on golfers’ must-play lists
By Tom LangThe Bear at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa comes out of hibernation each spring to test the best and entertain golfers of all skill levels.
2020 marks The Bear’s 35th awakening since Jack Nicklaus created his spectacular signature design in 1985.
Nationally ranked in the top 100 courses and consistently rated as one of Michigan’s toughest, The Bear has for decades drawn golfers who are looking for a chance to tame the challenge to northern Lower Michigan.
“The Bear has the reputation of being difficult, but it also has the reputation of being fair,” says Tom McGee, Grand Traverse Resort and Spa director of golf operations. “Golfers tell us they like the challenge. And they tell us each of the holes is so unique and memorable that no two holes are the same.
“It’s one of those golf courses where you have to think a lot, you need to look at the surroundings, and I think people appreciate that more and they concentrate more when playing it, as opposed to most other golf courses.”
An Unusual Course
That’s exactly what Nicklaus intended when he was commissioned to create his biggest golf-skills challenge of that era. The Bear plays to 7,078 yards from the championship tees. It has four lakes, 10 holes with water hazards and only one hole with no bunkers.
“That was kind of an unusual golf course (at the time),” Nicklaus said in a recent visit to Michigan. “The owner at that time wanted the longest course in Michigan, over 7,000 yards, par 72 and the highest course rating (for toughness). I did all three of those … and, of course, the golf course was really difficult.”
The Bear is a links-style course with mature trees surrounding the outer edges of the property. The course features undulating, multi-tiered greens, moguls, mounds, and deep pot bunkers that guard the greens and thick grassy rough. The rough has been cut back away from the fairways over the years to somewhat soften Nicklaus’ original design. Tee boxes have been added to provide more variety and shorter yardages.
Lakes, ponds, hardwood forests, streams, and orchards are home to a variety of wildlife and add more golf hazards to navigate. The course is a certified member of the Turfgrass Environmental Stewardship Program.
The fairways give The Bear its unique look. Elevated from the rough on many holes, the fairways appear to be floating above the surrounding property. The design also punishes shots that roll off the fairway and get hung up in the second cut of grass, creating a more severe side-hill position. Nicklaus later incorporated that design element into his signature course near Palm Springs, California.
A Must-Play
“Growing up in southern Michigan, this is one of the top five courses you always hear about that need to be on your list to play,” said golfer John Barkalow of Schoolcraft, Michigan, after playing The Bear for the first time in late 2019. “It was challenging yet playable. I’m certainly not a fantastic golfer, but I was able to shoot my average score.”
His playing partner that day, Brian Kowalski of Bowling Green, Ohio, added, “My first impressions were intimidating, but I wanted to try it because it’s listed as one of the top golf courses in Michigan. I definitely want to come back here and also try The Wolverine and Spruce Run. Always great golf in Northern Michigan.”
While The Bear sees most of its play by the average golfer, throughout the years it has hosted the state’s premier state championship — the Michigan Open — more times than any other golf course. (See related story on page xx.) And not long after The Bear opened, it hosted the PGA Champions Tour Ameritech Senior Open in 1990, won by global fan favorite Chi Chi Rodriguez.
“The Bear was the hardest course, as Jack built it, when it opened in 1985, and it’s withstood the test of time,” McGee says. “It’s still very attractive, people still love to play it, and those who come to the Resort, if they’re going to play one golf course, they choose The Bear.”
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Simply the Best
Resort garners top convention center award
By Emily DoranBeing named “Best Convention Center” by Michigan Meetings + Events in 2019 is the culmination of a lot of hard work and dedication from the staff at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa.
Boasting 86,500 square feet of meeting space, the Resort has established itself as a major hub for state, corporate, and private events. While the Resort has earned other accolades from Michigan Meeting + Events, including “Best Golf Venue” in 2019 and previous years, this is the first time the resort has snagged the “Best Convention Center” title (in the Non-University category). The award was determined in part through a readers’ poll, meaning clients and colleagues weighed in to push the results the Resort’s way.
“The award is, quite frankly, a reflection of our service, our food and beverage — the total meeting package,” says Ryan Buck, director of sales.
The honor also helps the Resort, which is booked by hundreds of groups a year, compete against larger venues like Detroit’s TCF Center (formerly the Cobo Center) and Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, Buck says.
“It puts us on a different level in a way, in a playing field commensurate with those other amazing venues that we have across the board, and it really shows the true capacities that we have,” he says. “These types of things help us establish legitimacy and credibility as an independent property.”
Certain features at the Resort help it stand out. For one thing, the convention space is wide open — no pillars.
“You don’t normally see that, especially with ballrooms like ours — 19,000 square feet,” says Buck, referencing the recently renovated Governors’ Hall. “Not having any pillars is a really distinct advantage.”
Other amenities, including a spacious loading dock, make the space particularly appealing to vendors.
“Another thing that we hear as feedback, and I see all the time, is it’s just easy to do business here,” Buck says.
Those and other features keep many clients, including the Michigan Credit Union League, coming back year after year. The League has been hosting events at the resort for more than two decades, booking all or most of the meeting areas and rooms to fit between 500 and 1,200 people, depending on the event.
For Janet Ormsby, senior director of events at the League, the Resort’s perks go beyond renovated spaces and beautiful grounds to include the staff.
“They’re just great people to work with,” she says.