Christus Good Shepherd Institute for Healthy Living

12/24/2025

12/21/2025

https://www.fitcitymag.com/new-years-fitness-goals-youll-actually-stick-to/

Discover practical tips for setting realistic New Year’s fitness goals in 2026. Learn how to create sustainable habits and stay motivated.

12/17/2025

Mrs. Claus and many of her friends and helpers have been working hard to stay “Merry and Fit” during our annual Holiday Fitness Challenge, acknowledging and pushing those who take advantage of our Group Exercise classes. Today was the end-of-challenge awards and “reindeer games”. Big shout out to our land-class member winners - 1st place Angela Ricci, 2nd place Sherry Farrell, 3rd place Jeannie King. A roaring round of applause to our water member winners - 1st place Soonnam Lee, tie for 2nd place Kim Rush, Loretta Hammond, and Mark Mohler!

12/11/2025

Here are trainers Billy and Jesse “training” us through the Dual Cable Cross Chest Fly.

12/05/2025

December's Instructor Profile: Beth Chrismer

Number of years at the IHL: I was a "charter member" when we opened in 2008. I began teaching yoga in 2014.

Number of years teaching: 11 years

Current classes on the schedule: Gentle Yoga Monday 9:00a.m., Pilates Mat & Muscle - Monday 10:00a.m., Wedneday 8:00a.m., Thursday 5:00p.m.

Certifications: Registered Nurse, CPR, 200-hour Registered Yoga Teacher, AAFA Practical Pilates, AAFA Group Ex Instructor, Classic Pilates training

Why do I like teaching: I was mentored by Paula Stanton, yoga guru at the IHL, and wanted to make her proud by following in her yoga footsteps. I also enjoy sharing yoga and Pilates with members and assisting them on their personal journeys.

What are my personal fitness goals: Age well and assist others to do the same. Teach safe, thoughtful classes that are accessible to our members.

More about me: I have been a registered nurse for 47 years, practicing 45 years at Christus Good Shepherd as an RN and leader, retired in 2023 from full-time work. I am now an adjunct faculty member in the Kilgore College School of Nursing. I completed the Gregg County Master Gardner program in 2024 and enjoy working in the dirt! I am celebrating 30 years of marriage this year. I enjoy traveling, especially to the beach! I have made a longtime commitment to fitness and wellness as a participant and instructor.

12/01/2025

11/24/2025

November's "Amazing Member" highlight is Carolyn Turner, IHL member since May, 2024.

Tell us why you exercise: "For my health - both physical and mental."

What activities or workouts do you enjoy at the IHL? "Strength training, yoga, running, and walking."

What goals have you achieved or what barriers have you overcome? How did your gym membership play a role in that journey? "I found out I had poor heart health and pulmonary hypertension in 2022, which had a big effect on my mental health, causing depression and anxiety. Things started to snowball when I found out I had breast cancer. I gained 80 pounds from depression. I did radiation, thankfully not chemo, and my doctors advised me to lose weight and get moving. In April of 2023, I weighed 265 pounds, and that's when I started moving and haven't stopped since. I joined the Institute a month later and have done yoga classes and weight training. I did my first 5K at the Walk to End Alzheimer's. I have lost 100 pounds through diet and exercise, and I'm in good health. I can feel and see the difference. I'm even starting to get some baby muscles! I had a hysterectomy this year, but it did not knock me down. I kept up my walking until I could come back to the gym. "

"My biggest piece of advice is to be kind to yourself and don't stop moving!"

11/20/2025

This month we highlight our Tuesday night 5:45p class Kick ‘n Kardio with Amy. This class combines martial arts moves like jabs and punches with different kicks, moving to great music, and helping you build strong muscles in your shoulders, arms, legs and core. Come have some fun, work out some stress and get a great workout!

11/14/2025

Knowledge plays a big role in our wellness journey. Do you know about the City of Longview's "Older Adult Home Modification Program"? This program helps older adults age safely in their own homes by funding modifications such as grab bars, ramps, improved lighting, and other necessary changes. It is designed to help seniors stay independent and comfortable in their own homes. See the details below, including elgibility requirements and how to apply.